The United States and Mauritius share a strong partnership focused on regional security, economic development, and democratic governance. To support these collaborative efforts, the U.S. Department of State Bureau of Overseas Buildings Operations is constructing a new U.S. embassy in Port Louis that will strengthen the United States’ relationship with Mauritius and the Mauritian people, serving as a platform for continued engagement in achieving the administration’s goals.
Project Overview
Richärd Kennedy Architects
Design Architect
Page
Architect of Record
B.L. Harbert International
Design/Build Contractor
$301 million
Project Budget
$80 million
Estimated Local Investment
2026
Estimated Completion
Port Louis plays a central role in regional trade and diplomacy, serving as a bridge between Africa and Asia.
U.S.-Mauritius collaboration includes initiatives to promote maritime security in the Indian Ocean and to foster economic growth through trade and innovation. The new embassy will provide a safe, secure, functional, and efficient space to strengthen collaboration with Mauritian government officials, civil society, and private sector leaders to advance U.S. foreign policy.
Design & Construction
The buildings emerge seamlessly from the landscape, incorporating materials such as white limestone walls, slab basalt plaza pavers, and cast bronze to create a cohesive and grounded presence. The interior design enhances this connection to the surroundings with expansive window walls, indoor courtyards, and gardens, fostering a dynamic and open environment for both embassy staff and visitors.
Building diplomatic facilities impacts the communities and neighborhoods in which they are located by generating jobs, increasing local production and acquisition of goods and services, stimulating business patronage, and improving adjacent infrastructure.
Natural Hazards Prevention & Utility Optimization
This project reduces risk and cost associated with security and maintenance while enhancing resilience to natural hazards. The design of the new consulate pursues rigorous energy-saving goals, aiming to reduce operating costs, optimize building performance, and enhance the self-sufficiency of the consulate.
Photovoltaic arrays will generate power by harnessing the abundant sunlight, reducing the facility’s dependence on local energy sources and effectively lowering utility costs. The design uses shading devices, special glazing, and building overhangs to reduce glare and heat indoors, lowering cooling costs while allowing natural light.
The landscape design manages stormwater with integrated water features and uses plantings to provide natural shade, creating a cooler microclimate that reduces energy consumption.
Art
The permanent art collection, curated by OBO’s Office of Art in Embassies, includes art in a variety of media, such as painting, sculpture, ceramics, and printing.
