James Hoban’s neoclassical Executive Residence opened in 1800, rebuilt after the 1814 fire and expanded by the West (1902) and East (1942) Wings. As head‑of‑state residence and office, it integrates security, ceremony, and history. Conservation cycles maintain sandstone, interiors, and systems while exhibitions and gardens welcome the public.
The central residence anchors a complex that evolved with governance: the West Wing houses the Oval Office and Situation Room; the East Wing supports social functions and the First Lady’s office. The Truman reconstruction (1948–52) replaced failing interior structure with steel while preserving exteriors.
From state dinners to Easter Egg Rolls and press briefings, the White House frames civic ritual and politics. Public tours (subject to security) interpret rooms curated with American art and period furnishings.
The White House Historical Association and Architect of the White House oversee preservation—stone cleaning, paint analysis, mechanical upgrades, and landscape care in the Ellipse and the Jacqueline Kennedy Garden.
