Australian Embassy, Tokyo
Role
Advisory
Redevelopment
Date
1986
Location
Tokyo, Japan
Redefining Diplomatic Presence
Garrisson, whilst in his studies, played an advisory role in the redevelopment of the Australian Embassy in Tokyo, in 1986. The embassy complex, designed by the renowned Australian architect Denton Corker Marshall, aimed to present a modern image of Australia in Japan. The complex houses the Embassy office, the Ambassador’s residence, and staff apartments, forming an E-shaped plan that integrates elements of the original building and garden. Garrisson's role involved guiding the initial consortium on the bid for the redevelopment, ensuring that the project aligned with functional and aesthetic goals, and reinforcing Australia's diplomatic presence in Tokyo.
Architectural and Functional Integration
The redevelopment, completed in 1990, features a unified composition with an elegant, established garden setting. Using modern materials such as stainless steel, aluminum, and bolted steel on a granite and black concrete base, projects an assertively contemporary image for Australia. Garrisson's strategic guidance in the redevelopment bid was crucial in realizing this modern, integrated complex that effectively represents Australia's image abroad.
Architect and image: Denton Corker Marshall