The prestigious Ministry of Foreign Affairs Headquarters comprises a new H-shaped six-storey building with a two-storey basement and a two-storey neo-classical building. The latter served as the MINDEF HQ building as well as British Army Officers' Mess in its early years, and still retains its splendid architectural features, complete with a well preserved Shanghai plaster facade. The ceremonial entrance for VIPs also houses the hospitality facilities for these distinguished visitors. The architecture, together with the site's interior and exterior landscaping, is a response to a few key elements — the diplomatic nature of its functions, its quiet pastoral setting within a designated embassy precinct, its proximity to the Singapore Botanic Gardens, and its imposing historical content.

The overall design creates an environment of stately elegance, providing an appropriate setting for receiving foreign dignitaries. The complex is also equipped with the latest intelligent building M&E systems for well-interfaced security control and office automation.