Dr Gabriella Howell recently led the successful restoration and reopening of Antigua and Barbuda’s historic Government House, one of the nation’s most significant heritage landmarks.

Serving Director of Historic Preservation and author of the Master Plan, Dr Howell directed a multi-year restoration that balanced architectural conservation, historical research, and public engagement. The project transformed the two-century-old site from a deteriorating complex into a fully restored national landmark that now functions both as the official ceremonial office of the Governor-General and as a public museum and cultural space.

Dr Howell also curated the newly established Government House Museum, convening a multidisciplinary Historical Panel and working closely with educators, archivists, and community stakeholders to develop exhibitions exploring Antigua and Barbuda’s political and social evolution from colonial rule to independence and modern nationhood.

Beyond preservation, the initiative emphasised skills training for local craftspeople, student access to heritage education, and long-term cultural tourism development. The museum now provides free educational visits for students and serves as a hub for national research, exhibitions, and public programming.

To read more about Dr Howell's story and achievements, read her interview here.