The historic Lalkuthi is set to reopen following a major restoration project

Renovation work on the historic Lalkuthi, also known as Northbrook Hall, a 152-year-old architectural landmark from the British era, is nearing completion, with the building expected to reopen soon.

According to Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) Superintending Engineer (Civil) and Project Director of the Lalkuthi Renovation Project Rajib Khadem, restoration of the iconic red-brick structure began in 2023 and has now been almost fully completed.

“The project has taken nearly three years to complete. Only some decorative work related to the building’s red-brick architectural features remains,” he told BSS.

Khadem said the building had suffered years of neglect and was once used as a warehouse. “Furniture and books dating back to the British period were found in poor condition. Later, DSCC took the initiative to restore the heritage site,” he said.

He added that preserving the original design was a key priority during the restoration process. “Experienced craftsmen specialising in traditional architectural conservation were employed. Special materials were used to protect the walls from fungus, and the structure has been restored close to its original appearance,” he said.

Rare books from the colonial era have also been preserved. Khadem said there are plans to reopen Johnson Hall as a library for visitors and researchers, with work currently underway.

He also noted that interpretive signboards will be installed to showcase the historical importance of the site.

Situated on the bank of the Buriganga River at the intersection of Farashganj and Shyambazar, opposite the Sadarghat Launch Terminal, Lalkuthi has become even more visually appealing with the addition of artificial fountains in front of the building.

Professor Dr Nasir Ahmad of Jagannath University’s History Department said the structure was built in 1874 to commemorate the visit of George Baring Northbrook, the then Governor-General of India.

“It was inaugurated on May 25, 1880 and named Northbrook Hall by the elite residents of Dhaka. The venue hosted meetings and formal events attended by colonial officials and distinguished citizens,” he said.

He added that the building was converted into a library in 1882, while Johnson Hall was later added as a clubhouse. “The library started with a small number of books but expanded to more than 10,000 volumes within a few years. Additional books were brought from England in 1887,” he said.

Prof Ahmad also noted that on February 7, 1926, a certificate of honour welcoming poet Rabindranath Tagore was presented at the venue on behalf of Dhaka Municipality and the People’s Association.

He said the library declined during the Pakistan era and suffered extensive damage during the Liberation War.

The restoration has already drawn renewed public interest. Jannatul Adnin, a visitor from Rampura, said she learned about the site through social media.

“The place looks even more beautiful in person than in photos, though traffic congestion remains a problem,” she said.

Hasan Sajib, a student of Jagannath University, said the site is popular for photography and recreation. “Every corner has a unique design. It would be even better if visitors were allowed inside the building,” he said.