Government House, St. Kitts: A Victorian Dining Room Restoration

Completed in 1834, Government House in St. Kitts, West Indies stands as one of the island’s most significant historic residences. It is the official home of the Governor General. At the time of this restoration, the late Sir Samuel Weymouth Tapley Seaton, GCMG, CVO, QC, JP, served as the chief representative of the Crown in a Commonwealth nation where the British monarch remains Head of State.

Often described as the Buckingham Palace of St. Kitts, Government House holds deep architectural, cultural, and ceremonial importance. Its stately presence, historic detailing, and prominent role in national events make it a landmark of both colonial architecture and Caribbean heritage. Like many historic properties, the residence experienced periods of decline; however, under the leadership of the present Governor General, thoughtful and ongoing efforts have been made to restore the home to its original Victorian-era grandeur.

I was honored to be invited to join the design and build team, which included Baley Project Management and Construction, responsible for preparing the formal dining area in advance of a high-profile official visit. This project required a careful balance between preservation and refinement. Because Government House was completed during the Victorian period, my design decisions were intentionally rooted in that era.

The color palette, soft furnishings, textiles, and decorative accessories were selected to reflect Victorian elegance while remaining appropriate for a functioning ceremonial residence. Every detail was considered with respect for the building’s history, scale, and architectural language—ensuring the space felt authentic, dignified, and welcoming.

This project represents a meaningful intersection of historic interior design, heritage restoration, and Caribbean colonial architecture. Contributing to the renewal of such an important national residence was both a professional honor and a deeply personal experience.

Photography: Modern Elegance Photography

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