While on a recent road trip that meandered through our nation's great capital, we walked past this fantastic building while trying to get back to the car before our meter expired. It is the Pan American Health Organization building, the regional office for the World Health Organization in Washington D.C., tucked away on 23rd St. N.W., a few steps away from the State Department, and a block or so off the National Mall.
After returning home, I've learned that Uruguayan architect Roman Fresnedo Siri, known for his design of civic buildings throughout South America, won an international competition in 1961 to design the building. It was officially opened in 1965.
The exterior features 29 round bronze seals set in black stone, which represent the founding nations of the Pan American Health Organization. Each medallion is 2.5 feet in diameter and were designed by American sculptor Michael Lantz.
My favorite part of the structure though is the geometric screen that encases the entire building in true midcentury style.
After returning home, I've learned that Uruguayan architect Roman Fresnedo Siri, known for his design of civic buildings throughout South America, won an international competition in 1961 to design the building. It was officially opened in 1965.
The exterior features 29 round bronze seals set in black stone, which represent the founding nations of the Pan American Health Organization. Each medallion is 2.5 feet in diameter and were designed by American sculptor Michael Lantz.
My favorite part of the structure though is the geometric screen that encases the entire building in true midcentury style.
