Twin Oaks, Colonial Revival mansion in Cleveland Park, Washington, D.C.
Twin Oaks is a Colonial Revival mansion located in the Cleveland Park neighborhood of Washington, D.C. The main house displays classical columns on its facade and symmetrical windows, while spacious reception rooms with high ceilings and carved wood paneling extend throughout the interior.
Architect Francis Allen designed the estate in 1888 for Gardiner Greene Hubbard, founder of the National Geographic Society. After several changes of ownership, the Republic of China government purchased the property in 1937 and used it until diplomatic recognition shifted in 1979.
Since 1979, the grounds have served as the residence for Taiwan's representative and hold particular meaning for the diplomatic community in the city. The reception rooms host official events and cultural gatherings today that bring together officials and guests from different nations.
The grounds are located on Woodley Road NW and remain closed to the public as a private residence. Visitors can view the facade and surrounding area from the sidewalk but should respect the privacy of the occupants.
The area covered by the property roughly matches the size of the White House compound, making it the largest private landholding in Washington. A historic New England frame summer house still stands on the grounds and is considered the last of its kind in the city.
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