Page 246 - DK Eyewitness Travel Guides - The World's Must-See Places

The White House, Washington, D.C.

The official residence of the president of the United States for more than 200
years, the White House is one of the most distinguished buildings in the United
States and was built on a location chosen by George Washington in 1790. Irish-
born architect James Hoban designed the original building in a Palladian style
(Neo-Classical Style, see p.57) and when it was nearing completion, President
and Mrs. John Adams became the first occupants. It has survived two fires, in
1814 and 1929, and the interior was completely gutted and renovated during
Harry S. Truman's presidency, from 1945 to 1953. In 1901, President Theodore
Roosevelt officially gave the White House its current name.

A North Fa~ade
The Palladian-sJ¥Ie fao;ade of the White ~ Unwin Bedroom
House is familiar to millions of people
around the world.
Treaty Room
~ North Fa~ade
THE WHITE HOUSE VISITOR CENTER
Interesting exhibits relating to the
White House's history, decor, and
inhabitants are on display in the
White House Visitor Center. Guided
tours of the White House are
available, but are extremely limited,
and can only be booked by special
arrangement through a member
of Congress or an embassy.

~ State Dining Room

-"~"~/ One of four reception rooms, ~ Diplomatic

Reception
Stonework
This leads to the West
Wing, the Cabinet This is regularly repainted the Red Room is furnished in
red in the American Empire
Room, and the Oval to maintain the building's style. The fabrics were woven
Office, the president's white fa~ade. in the US from French designs.
offi cia I office.