This building breaks out of the visual confines of the State Department compound and engages Moscow on a grand, sweeping scale while adding a contemporary landmark to the skyline. The vigorous forms mediate existing site geometries and boldly orient the building westward to overlook a major urban thoroughfare and park. The west facade receives formal attention as the building's face on the city of Moscow. A sweeping, curved curtain wall inserted into the stone-sheathed facade opens onto the outlying panorama. This glass window wall creates shimmering, dynamic images that shift with the natural light and weather conditions.