The more than 20-year-old city building is expected to be improved through changes to the ceilings, floors and the exterior in renovations that may take up to six months.

The three-storey structure belongs to the Hon. David Wilkinson, retired Speaker of the House of assembly, his brother Edgar and sister Sandra Outerbridge.

Spokesman, Mr. Dennis Chin, said that it is hoped that the work could be completed by summer's end.

He explained the reasoning for the work at this time. "We feel that the building needs upgrading to meet the standard that has been presented by the modern buildings in the City. There have been so many modern buildings going up, we feel it is looking like an old antique.

"We're investing for the future and hoping to be able to attract better rents down the line. Right now, the rental market is in a slump. But when it comes out, we want to be able to offer what clients want to see in an upgraded building.

Most of the building's 27,000 square feet is occupied by offices. The businesses include Tobacco Associates, Meyer Travel's shipping di vision, Changes Beauty Salon, Amaral's fruit and vegetable market.

Stuart Pearson, partner in the architectural firm, Cooper and Gardner, said, "We're in the middle of the bid process right now. We are trying to upgrade the facade of the existing exterior.

"It looks a lot like a fortress right now. We are trying to make it look a little softer and a little more Bermudian.

"We will apply a substance to the exterior walls and try to make the entrance a little more inviting. We are also trying to make it a little more accessible to those in wheelchairs.''