The palace is located on Eduardo A. Makabenta, Sr. Street at the Cultural Center of the Philippines Complex between the Folk Arts Theatre and the Sofitel Philippine Plaza. Renovation includes conversion of the library at the ground floor into the Vice Premier’s office. The design and lay-out of the space will be retained with new furniture. The sinks and toilets have also been replaced.
Another room is being converted into a receiving room for visiting dignitaries and other guests. A third room will be occupied by the staff of the vice president. The Bicol room on the second floor is being converted into private quarters of the vice premier. The project also includes the renovation of the rectangular pool in the complex.
The Coconut Palace is also known as Tahanang Pilipino and was built in 1978 from several types of Philippine hardwood, coconut shells, and a specially engineered coconut lumber known as Imelda Madera. Each of the suites on the second floor is named after a specific region of the Philippines and displays some of the handicrafts these regions produce.
The palace is shaped like an octagon while the roof is shaped like a traditional Filipino salakot or hat. Some of the rich interior features of the palace include a 101 coconut shell chandelier, and a dining table made of 40,000 tiny pieces of inlaid coconut shells.
Renovation is expected to be completed by June, with the palace scheduled to be inaugurated on 30 June 2011.
