Diplomatic Reception Room

The Diplomatic Reception Room is a state room at the White House with an oval shape and four doorways. These connect to the Map Room, Center Hall, China Room, and South Lawn.

Originally used as a maintenance area, the room received a fireplace in 1935 under Franklin Roosevelt. This was added to broadcast his national radio addresses.

The room displays furniture from the Federal Period between 1790 and 1820, crafted by skilled cabinetmakers from New York and New England. These pieces define how the space looks and feels today.

The room sits on the ground floor of the White House and serves as the venue where ambassadors present their credentials to the President. Access is typically through the South Lawn entrance.

The walls feature a French panoramic wallpaper from 1834 that depicts North American landscapes including Niagara Falls and Boston Harbor. This wall covering is a rare example of imported French decorative arts from that era.

Location: Washington, D.C.

Part of: White House

Address: 1801 F St NW, Washington, DC 20006, USA

Opening Hours: Monday 14:30-16:30; Wednesday-Thursday 14:30-16:30

Phone: +12026820500

Website: http://dacorbacon.org

GPS coordinates: 38.89760,-77.03660

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:54