Government of Jamaica – Houses of Parliament

DBR provided Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing, Fire Protection, Security, and Technology engineering services for the new Jamaica Houses of Parliament, located within the historic National Heroes Park in Kingston, Jamaica. Designed by Design Collaborative, in partnership with OJB Landscape Architecture, the project was the winning submission of an international design competition under the theme “Out of Many One People.”

The Parliament building is approximately 160,000 gross square feet and includes chambers for the House of Representatives and Senate, along with administrative offices and critical security and support facilities. The circular design reflects Jamaican unity and identity, symbolizing equality and inclusivity by eliminating any hierarchy of orientation and providing access from all directions. Parking for 394 vehicles is located partially and fully below grade, with a landscaped terrace above.

Phase 1 of the project focused on the 11.4-acre site at the center of the 52-acre National Heroes Park, which includes the main Parliament building, structured parking access, service areas, and public-facing landscape zones. These areas were further defined during the program verification phase. DBR’s services supported sustainable design strategies aligned with LEED Gold objectives, emphasizing long-term performance and energy efficiency, even though certification was not pursued.

Phase 2 expanded the scope to include infrastructure and landscape design across the remaining 40 acres of the park. This included improvements to adjacent sidewalks, enhancements to the National Heroes Shrine area to the south, and integration of existing green spaces to the north. In collaboration with OJB Landscape Architecture, the design introduced major public features such as the People’s Plaza, a sculpture garden, and an outdoor amphitheater, while concealing service areas below grade to preserve open, accessible green space.

This landmark civic project marks a major step in the revitalization of downtown Kingston, honoring Jamaica’s cultural heritage and strengthening its foundation for national governance.