Eisenhower Executive Office Building

The Eisenhower Executive Office Building is a government office near the White House on Pennsylvania Avenue, recognizable by its gray stone walls, high peaked roof, and ornate metalwork. Inside, nearly 3 kilometers (2 miles) of hallways link rooms used by presidential advisors, the Vice President's team, and security officials.

Construction finished in 1888, when the building housed the State, War, and Navy Departments during a period of American expansion abroad. After several renovations and a name change in the 20th century, it now serves the White House staff and security advisors.

The structure shows how Americans borrowed ideas from French official buildings during the 1800s, combining high roofs and stone decoration with local craftsmanship. Its imposing front reflects the confidence the nation wanted to display as it grew into a world power at the end of that century.

Access is limited to staff and visitors with security clearance, so casual visits inside are not possible. Those interested in the exterior can view it from Pennsylvania Avenue, where pedestrians can walk along the sidewalk and see the front from different angles.

Architects deliberately used little wood inside to reduce fire risk, replacing it with iron and stone in stairwells and floors. Some original rooms like the old library and the Secretary's suite remain, offering a glimpse of how government officials worked in the late 1800s.