UN HEADQUARTERS:
CAPITAL OF THE WORLD

The task of designing the UN Headquarters fell to a team of architects drawn from around the globe, who were given a specific brief: to come together in a ‘Workshop for Peace’ to create a building that would be, as the UN itself puts it, ‘a gem of “International Style” imbued with meaning and purpose.’

The UN, on its website, defines the building thus:

The compound embodies the essence of the Organization and its ideals are expressed in the buildings: the glass facades allow the public to look into the building, representing transparency; the internal balconies from the public areas overlook the second floor, reminding for delegates that the UN is accountable to the people of the world. United Nations Headquarters was built to be home for all nations, with no decorations or dominant colours, and with public access in mind.

The striking architecture of the complex is readily recognisable in souvenirs and memorabilia, like the Christmas ornament and Lego set.