Architects Say State House Renovations Will Compromise Its Historical and Cultural Significance

The Architectural Association of Kenya (AAK) has strongly opposed the ongoing renovations at State House, Nairobi.

In a statement, AAK criticised the new look on various grounds, arguing that it compromises the building’s historical and architectural significance.

“The Architectural Association of Kenya (AAK) expresses deep concern over the ongoing renovations at State House, Nairobi,” the statement read.

It continued: “Built in 1907 and designed by Sir Herbert Baker, State House is a neo-classical masterpiece that should be preserved, not altered. The recent renovations—changing its iconic roofing, proportions, and symmetry—diminish its historical essence.”

According to the association, despite State House not being officially declared a national monument, it qualifies as a structure of historical significance, having witnessed key moments in Kenya’s history.

While emphasising the need for the government to preserve Kenya’s heritage, AAK made several demands regarding the renovations, including an immediate halt to any further aesthetic alterations at State House.

The association also urged the government to establish clear heritage conservation guidelines and consult experts before undertaking projects involving national landmarks.

Towards the end of January, State House underwent a facelift which saw the current occupants do away with the pre-historic look for a more modern aesthetic, most notably the flatroof.

The renovations have been going on for nearly two years, with the final look only being unleashed on January 25 through President William Ruto’s communication team.

The viral photos sparked widespread outrage among Kenyans, with many criticising the replacement of the tiled colonial roofing with a plain white flat roof. A majority argued that the new design diminished State House’s historical essence.

Amid the backlash, Environment Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale defended the renovations, stating they were conducted in compliance with the Public Finance Management (PFM) Act and the Public Procurement and Disposal (PPD) Act. He also dismissed claims that the renovations lacked public participation.

“Everything we do, including the renovation of State House, is anchored in law. It is not something arbitrary or informal,” Duale asserted.

In June 2024, it was reported that refurbishments for State Houses and State Lodges were allocated Ksh1.5 billion for the current financial year, as part of a larger Ksh11.5 billion budget set aside for their renovations.