Practice director Robbie Kerr has relocated to Caribbean country to set up a new studio
ADAM Architecture has completed a restoration of the building in Antigua and Barbuda which has served as the seat of the Caribbean nation’s government for the past two centuries.
The practice has unveiled pictures of its refurbishment of Government House in St John’s, the country’s capital on the island of Antigua.
The project has been completed for Heritage Trust Antigua and Barbuda with ADAM Architecture working in partnership with local architect Curisa Smith of FRagments Design.
The timber-framed building was built in the early 19th century and is the successor to several previous buildings used as centres of colonial administration dating back to the 17th century.
Built in a Georgian style with deep verandas and double-height columns, it is considered among the country’s most significant heritage assets but had fallen into disrepair prior to its restoration.
The project to save the building, led ADAM Architecture director Robbie Kerr, has addressed major structural issues which had accumulated over recent decades including water ingress and a termite infestation.
It has also removed unsympathetic alterations, reconfigured poorly designed service areas and restored the building’s historic floorplan.
The ground floor has been restored and redecorated to accommodate formal state functions, while the upper floor has been transformed into a new public museum dedicated to the history of Antigua and Barbuda.
Kerr, who has relocated to Antigua to establish a new studio, said the move will allow the practice to deepen existing relationships in the region and continue to provide both architectural services and heritage consultancy to local projects more efficiently.
Of the works at Government House, he said: “Reversing decades of unsympathetic alterations while working with local craftspeople to reinstate traditional construction techniques was central to the project.
“It has been fantastic to be able to take our deep understanding of historic buildings and adapt it to the context in Antigua.”
Gabriella Howell, director of historic conservation and museum development for the Heritage Trust (Antigua & Barbuda) Inc, added: “One of the greatest challenges was striking the delicate balance between preservation and conservation - protecting the building’s original character while ensuring its survival.
“Once a symbol of colonial authority, it now stands transformed into a place of learning, reflection, and shared history, with the creation of the Government House Museum ensuring that this space remains not only preserved but deeply meaningful for generations to come.”
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