Located just off of Sixteenth Street NW in Washington, D.C., the Meridian International Center complex sits on an elevated, crescent-shaped swath of land opposite Meridian Hill/Malcolm X Park. On the site are two neoclassical residences, both designed by John Russel Pope in the early 20th century. Initially designed as diplomatic residences, when Meridian International Center purchased the site in 1960, the houses were converted into facilities for the organization. Today, having recently undergone extensive renovations the buildings are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Meridian International Center is devoted to the exchange of people, ideas, and art. The organization aims to promote international understanding through diplomatic exchanges, arts programs, lecture series, and educational programs. The majority of operations is devoted to the International Visitors Program, however in recent years, the organization has expressed a desire to expand their other programs, specifically the Arts & Culture and World Affairs divisions. A primary intention of Meridian International Center is to open its doors to the city, to invite and engage the public in international matters through a variety of expositions.

Currently lacking sufficient space to accommodate such programs, this thesis proposes a new facility for Meridian International Center's building complex. This facility is to function as a Contemporary Culture Center. With the intention of opening the institution to the public, both literally and figuratively, the building is to act as a beacon in the city for the sharing and mixing of cultures.