Washington DC's Most Beautiful Embassies

The District of Columbia is home to over 170 embassies and consulates, which play a significant part in they city’s architecture stories. Many of the embassies are on Embassy Row, and are gorgeous buildings that are unique and diverse in style, design, and aesthetic. While you will catch glimpses of many if you are walking around the city, here’s our list of some of the most beautiful embassies that should not be missed.

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Finland

The first “green embassy” in the country, the LEED certified building is a prime example of form and functionality. Resembling a modern cabin in the woods, the building is nestled into Rock Creek Park, and is a demonstration of Finnish values in the workplace — lots of natural light, open areas, and a connection with nature. The back wall looking onto the park is glass, and also has a wooden deck and catwalk in the back area overlooking the picturesque landscape.

China

The Chinese embassy building is synchronous with other major buildings in DC, and made of French limestone. It merges a contemporary look with Chinese design aesthetics and landscaping. A Chinese garden connects the two wings of the building.

Brazil

This modern glass building structure was designed by Brazilian architect Olava Redig de Campos, and showcases 1970s Brazilian contemporary architecture. The glass and steel construction is visually striking.

House of Sweden

Home to the embassies of Sweden and Iceland, the House of Sweden is a super-modern building that overlooks the Potomac waterfront. It’s widely regarded as a prime example of Swedish architecture and design, and won the prestigious Kasper Salin Prize for Best Building in 2007.

Estonia

This house on Embassy Row was originally built for a doctor in 1905, and later was home to the Peruvuian Embassy, until Estonia bought it in 1994. The neoclassical style architecture makes it one of the standout buildings on Embassy Row.

Indonesia

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this 50-room mansion was originally constructed as a private residence for Evalyn Walsh Mclean, who was the last private owner of the Hope Diamond. The Beaux-Arts style building was also home to the Red Cross before Indonesia purchased it. A statue of Saraswati, Hindu goddess of knowledge and wisdom, is installed on the outside.