Newly renovated State House, NairobiThe Architectural Association of Kenya (AAK) has called for a halt to further alterations to State House, Nairobi.
AAK expressed concern over ongoing renovations at State House, saying it compromises the historical and architectural significance of the house on the hill.
“The recent renovations—changing its iconic roofing, proportions, and symmetry—diminish its historical essence,” AAK said in a statement.
Built in 1907 and designed by Sir Herbert Baker, State House is a neo-classical masterpiece that should be preserved, which AAK said not altered.
“This style follows the Doric and Corinthian orders, evident in its columns and the moldings 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,” the association explained.
AAK said Kenya must prioritise restoration over drastic design changes to protect the country’s heritage.
The association further called for the establishment of clear heritage conservation guidelines.
It added that heritage experts and the public must be consulted in preserving national landmarks.
AAK, however, said it acknowledges the necessity of renovations to maintain the structural integrity and aesthetic value of the State House.
AAK noted that Nairobi's State House has not been officially declared a national monument, but said it 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,” it said.
AKK said notable changes include the replacement of the iconic red roofing tiles.
It added that the introduction of the roof parapet whose depth 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.
It further said the merging of two entrances into a large canopy, possibly with a port cachère or drop-off point, drastically alters the building's symmetry and classic proportions
It also said the parapet depth obscuring other essential architectural features such as the chimneys makes it unclear whether they were retained.
“Globally, historic government buildings have been carefully preserved to maintain their architectural and cultural integrity,” AAK added.
It said 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 prioritising restoration over drastic design alterations.”
AAK said 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.”