Set on an 18 acre plot, the official residence of the US President is officially labelled the Executive Mansion. It gained its known name after being burned by the British in 1814 – its smoke-stained grey stone walls painted white. It is a neoclassical design from Irish architect James Hoban, under the guidance of then-president George Washington, and has housed all succeeding presidents and first families. The North Portico is at the front, although the South Portico is perhaps most ercognisable, being the most popular photograph. Large columns house each portico, with a large circular fountain at both ends.

Written by  George Monkhouse.

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