DIPLOMA PROJECT, Embassy of Iraq in Oslo, Norway. ZBT

An embassy is a reflection of its country and its silent messenger that complements as well as completes the Ambassador’s mission.
The name of Iraq has become a strong reminder of war, atrocities, and suffering not soon forgotten, as it fought to carve its identity. Iraq seeks much needed support to overcome the painful years of civil war and looks to friendly nations that understand its pain and its strive to build a better future. Iraq is viewed as a rich and influential country, their heritage and traditions reflected by the fastest expanding civilization in the world. A world where traditions are being lost, easily discarded, and abandoned.

Iraq almost lost everything including their beliefs and faith in humanity, in face of a horrific and devastating war not seen in Europe since World War II, a gleam of hope ended the fight and life rose again from the ashes of pain and suffering.
Today, only the present and future matter and need be strengthened. We find strength not only in ourselves, but also in family and friends in life. Thus, the message of the hope coming from the warm desert of Arabia is bold and strong and has to be shown in the architectural representation of the embassy.
This research seeks to shed light on what an Iraqi embassy in Norway capital is. It discusses to what extent an embassy can showcase the ideals and the cultural values of the country it represents, what its role is, and to what extent it is a building that should try to conform to the local setting.
The new building should be a symbol of the Iraqi’s role and a reflection of the determination to rebuild the country.

Zaid Bin Talib
16.05.2013