Architects Demand Ruto To Stop State House Renovations

The Architectural Association of Kenya (AAK) has called for the halting of the ongoing renovations at State House, Nairobi as it highlighted significant alterations that jeopardise its historical and cultural integrity.

In a statement on Monday, February 3, AAK though acknowledged the necessity of renovations to maintain the structural integrity and aesthetic value of the State House. However, it expressed deep concern over the ongoing renovations of the State House, which have significantly compromised its immense historical and cultural significance.

Built in 1907 and designed by the renowned British architect Sir Herbert Baker (1862-1946), the State House is an architectural masterpiece of the neo-classical style.

According to AAK President Florence Nyole, the style follows the Doric and Corinthian orders, evident in its columns and the mouldings around the eaves of the roof. Defined by principles of symmetry, proportions, rhythm, and repetition, its original design was a testament to timeless architectural principles that should be safeguarded.

"While Nairobi's State House has not been officially declared a national monument, it undoubtedly qualifies as a structure of immense historical significance, having witnessed defining moments in Kenya's history. As the backdrop of Kenya's political and social evolution, its preservation should be a national priority. However, the recent renovations have deviated significantly from its classic proportions," Nyole lamented.

The association took note of notable changes that include the replacement of the iconic red roofing tiles, and the introduction of the roof parapet whose depth the association highlighted "is greater than the previous depth of the roof moulding around the fascia takes away from its character by giving the form a flat roof design."

They also faulted the merging of two entrances into a large canopy, possibly with a port cochère or drop-off point, arguing that it drastically alters the building's symmetry and classic proportions.

AAK also hit out at the parapet depth obscuring other essential architectural features, such as the chimneys, making it unclear whether they were retained.

Nyole argued that the design alteration diminishes the recognition of the State House known to Kenyans, adding that similar mutilation has been meted out on the Uhuru Park Pavillion, which was brought down without consideration of its significance in the heritage of Kenya's history, denying future generations a way to connect with their past.

"Globally, historic government buildings have been carefully preserved to maintain their architectural and cultural integrity. The National Jubilee Palace in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and Ghana's Christiansborg Castle now stand protected as national monuments, upholding their original character for centuries. Likewise, renowned landmarks such as Westminster Abbey and the White House have undergone meticulous preservation efforts to retain their historical essence. Kenya must adopt a similar approach by prioritizing restoration over drastic design alterations," added the statement.

"Public buildings and other strategic national installations requiring renovation should be listed by the National Museums of Kenya and subjected to public scrutiny before any work is undertaken. As such, the AAK emphasizes that the government must engage the public and seek expert architectural advice when planning renovations on heritage structures. The AAK has a dedicated working group of experts ready to provide guidance on such matters."

Consequently, AAK urged the government to halt further alterations to the State House and establish clear heritage conservation guidelines. The association also called on the government to consult heritage experts and the public in preserving national landmarks. 

In January 2024, renovations led to the closure of the main building of the Nairobi State House, with President William Ruto relocating his office to the newly constructed pavilion, where he has been holding Cabinet meetings and welcoming visiting heads of state and other high-ranking officials. Additionally, some engagements have taken place at state lodges in various regions of the country.

The images of the renovated State House emerged last week as the President hosted Guinea-Bissau President Général Umaro El Mokhtar Sissoco Embalo, who was on a State Visit to Kenya. However, the redesign sparked widespread outrage among Kenyans, with many criticising the replacement of the tiled colonial roofing with a plain white flat roof.

Amid the backlash, Environment Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale defended the renovations, stating that State House is the country’s face before visiting dignitaries and the upgrade is justified.