The new look State House has elicited mixed reactions from Kenyans with most appearing not to favour the redesign.
A scan of online commentary shows that most critics feel the alterations have diminished the colonial-era structure’s historical significance, with some fearing the loss of an important part of Kenya’s heritage.
The X handle Museum of Kenyan Architecture, pointed out that the original design by Sir Herbert Baker featured a neo-classical style with Doric and Corinthian columns, elements that have now been diminished in the renovations. The Standard, one of Kenya’s oldest newspapers, also voiced concerns, with a headline reading: “Not our State House.”
The 118-year-old building, which serves as the official residence of the Kenyan President, has undergone several changes, including the replacement of its traditional tiled gable roof with a flat one, and the modification of the main entrance with the addition of new columns.
The first images of the renovated State House emerged last Saturday during an official reception for a visiting West African Head of State.
