Restoration and Adaptive Reuse of the Red House

A landmark of historical and political importance, the Red House, in Port of Spain Trinidad has been the home of the nation's Parliament for over one hundred years.  Truly an edifice that pays homage to Trinidad and Tobago's Colonial Heritage, the structure was painted red to commemorate the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Victoria and was thereafter known as the Red House.  The current structure is actually the second building structure on the site as the Red House was reconstructed in 1907 following its destruction in the Red House Fire of 1903.

With such a rich history, the Red House will be restored and updated to ensure that it may be enjoyed for generations to come.  After a great deal of research on this Renaissance-styled monument by specialists in restoration architecture, the external structure will be restored to its original grandeur while provisions will be made to retrofit the interiors to adapt them for office space and Government use. At the same time, efforts will be made to ensure that the structure conforms with modern structural, electrical, plumbing and life safety codes. 

Located immediately west of the popular Woodford Square on Abercromby Street in downtown Port of Spain, the 163-year-old edifice will benefit from several upgrades, all tailored to meet the needs of Trinidad and Tobago's rapidly-developing society.

The improvements will include:

• Provision of appropriate landscaping which will include access areas for disabled persons;

• Incorporation of security devices into new landscaping;

• Provision of approximately 25 parking spaces for Government officials;

• Restoration and/or repair of masonry doors, windows and roofing system;

• Rebuilding of access routes, including walkways, curbs, and storm drainage;

• Provision of offices for the Prime Minister on the first floor, and offices for staff of the Office of the Prime Minister on the ground floor;

• Provision of conference and meeting rooms, equipped with multi-media facilities;

• Provision of a new Museum of Parliament;

• Restoration of the Main Entrance, equipped with security control and public bathrooms; and

• Provision of a service and passenger lift.

UDeCOTT is developing the structures that form part of Vision 2020,
the development plan of the Government of Trinidad and Tobago.