PPP raises concerns over architectural changes to State House

Chief Whip of the Opposition People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Gail Teixeira has raised some concerns over the proposed infrastructural changes to State House, urging government to protect the architectural integrity of the building.

This is after State Minister Joseph Harmon revealed that as part of Government’s capital projects for 2016, some sweeping changes are planned for State House and the Ministry of the Presidency.

Among the changes planned is a change from Louvre to latch windows, as disclosed by the Minister. He related that some $1.8M has been budgeted for this project. Also an additional $8M has been budgeted for a complete rewiring of State House.

Monies were also budgeted for the wiring and installation microphones as part of a PA system rehabilitation of the security barracks and the drainage and irrigation systems.

Teixeira in her question to the Minister stated that the Government must be careful of tarnishing State House since it is a heritage structure.

“This is a heritage building and therefore we are concerned that the architectural integrity is maintained,” said the Chief Whip adding “this is a lot of money being spent on what would clearly change the architectural of the building.”

State House known for having 100 windows was built in the 1838. Among those 100 windows are the distinct windows such as the Georgian six-paned windows and the Demerara windows.

The structure was intended to be the Home of the then Governor of British Guiana but is now home to Guyana’s Head of State.

Many of the ornate designs of the interior of the building are credited to Caesar Castellani, one of the most prolific architects of the colonial era.