GA-0200 , UNNY252G, 2016, Switzerland
Title

GA-0200

Gift ID: 
UNNY252G

GA-200 serves an important purpose because it is located directly behind the General Assembly Hall. The space has conference and meeting rooms. Heads of state, prime ministers and foreign ministers wait there before addressing the General Assembly.

The interior work was executed by Swiss craftsmen working under the guidance of Canton of Thurgau regional carpenters. The materials used include walnut, anodized aluminum, colored glass and grey wool carpet. The furniture was specifically designed for the space and described as simple elegance. An interior design feature is the word “peace” in tiny text which is inlaid on 12 various surfaces in the space and furniture and written in the six official languages of the UN. The inlays are made of diamonds, gold, white gold, tantalum, and exotic woods. These precious materials are meant to provoke thought about peace and its value. This message is directed at those in power who will speak in front of the General Assembly. 

The space has several functions. It serves as meeting and conference facilities for the Secretary-General, the President of the General Assembly, and supporting staff. The heads of state wait and rehearse in the suite before addressing the General Assembly. 

On 20 September 2004, there was an inauguration of the renovated GA-200 suite. Secretary-General Kofi Annan received the gift from the people and government of Switzerland as presented by the President of Switzerland, Joseph Deiss.

President of Switzerland Joseph Deiss said, “The gift had to meet a genuine need on the part of the UN and reflect Switzerland’s creative spirit and its capabilities for innovation.” Prior to the renovation, GA-200 had not been altered since 1952. 

Donor Region: 
Western European and Other Groups
Donor: 
Switzerland
Classification: 
Architecture & Mosaics
Materials: 
Furniture
Medium: 
Interior design, GA-0200
Location (Building): 
General Assembly (GA)
Location floor: 
2nd Floor
Donation Date: 
September 20, 2004
Artist or Maker: 
Unknown