Nairobi, February 3, 2025 – The Architectural Association of Kenya (AAK) has called for an immediate halt to the ongoing renovations at State House, Nairobi, citing significant alterations that threaten its historical and cultural integrity.
In a statement released on Monday, AAK acknowledged the necessity of renovations to maintain the structural and aesthetic value of the State House. However, the association expressed deep concern that the current modifications have severely compromised the landmark’s immense historical and cultural significance.
PRESS RELEASE: AAK's Statement on State House Renovations.
— Architectural Association of Kenya (@Arch_KE) February 3, 2025
The Architectural Association of Kenya (AAK) @Arch_KE expresses deep concern over the ongoing renovations at State House, Nairobi, which compromise its historical and architectural significance.
Built in 1907 and… pic.twitter.com/3X4pZ8Zeg7
Built in 1907 and designed by renowned British architect Sir Herbert Baker (1862–1946), State House is an architectural masterpiece of the neo-classical style. According to AAK President Florence Nyole, the building’s original design follows the Doric and Corinthian orders, evident in its columns and the moldings around the eaves of the roof. Defined by symmetry, proportions, rhythm, and repetition, its design exemplifies timeless architectural principles that should be preserved.
State House as a Heritage Landmark
“While Nairobi’s State House has not been officially designated a national monument, it unquestionably qualifies as a structure of immense historical significance, having witnessed defining moments in Kenya’s history,” Nyole stated. “As the backdrop of Kenya’s political and social evolution, its preservation should be a national priority. However, recent renovations have significantly deviated from its classic proportions.”
AAK highlighted several changes of concern, including the replacement of the iconic red roofing tiles and the introduction of a deep roof parapet, which disrupts the original design by creating a flat-roof appearance. Additionally, the association criticized the merging of two entrances into a large canopy, potentially incorporating a port cochère or drop-off point, arguing that it drastically alters the building’s symmetry and classic proportions.
Further concerns were raised regarding the parapet depth, which obscures key architectural features such as the chimneys, making it unclear whether they have been retained. Nyole warned that these alterations diminish public recognition of the State House and set a precedent for neglecting Kenya’s built heritage.
Call for Heritage Conservation Measures
Nyole also pointed to the demolition of the Uhuru Park Pavilion as another instance of disregarding Kenya’s historical landmarks, stressing that future generations are being denied the opportunity to connect with their past.
“Globally, historic government buildings have been meticulously preserved to maintain their architectural and cultural integrity. The National Jubilee Palace in Addis Ababa and Ghana’s Christiansborg Castle are protected as national monuments, maintaining their original character for centuries. Likewise, Westminster Abbey and the White House have undergone careful restoration efforts to retain their historical essence. Kenya must adopt a similar approach by prioritizing restoration over drastic design alterations,” the statement added.
AAK called on the government to implement clear heritage conservation guidelines for public buildings and strategic national installations requiring renovation. The association urged that such structures be listed by the National Museums of Kenya and subjected to public scrutiny before any work is undertaken.
“As such, 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,” the statement emphasized.
Public Backlash Over Renovations
In January 2024, renovations led to the closure of the main State House building, prompting President William Ruto to relocate his office to the newly constructed pavilion, where he has since held Cabinet meetings and hosted visiting heads of state and other high-ranking officials. Some engagements have also been conducted at state lodges across the country.
The first images of the renovated State House emerged last week when President Ruto hosted Guinea-Bissau President Général Umaro El Mokhtar Sissoco Embalo during a state visit. The redesign has since sparked widespread public outcry, with many Kenyans criticizing the replacement of the colonial-era tiled roofing with a plain white flat roof.
Amid mounting criticism, Environment Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale defended the renovations, arguing that State House serves as Kenya’s diplomatic face before visiting dignitaries and that the upgrade was necessary. However, AAK maintains that heritage conservation must take precedence over modern alterations.
Consequently, the association has urged the government to halt further modifications and consult heritage experts and the public to ensure national landmarks are preserved for future generations.
