the white house, two of five

Moving to the interior spaces today. I suppose we can start in the wings! The West Wing was originally conceived as stables and conservatories, a purpose it served from 1800-1901. In 1902 renovation commenced to make it an executive office with President Taft creating the Oval Officer in 1909. Come 1934 President Franklin Roosevelt, with architect Eric Gugler, created the second story and moved the Oval Office to the present day location.

One of my favorite rooms is the Palm Room in the West Wing. The treillage that President George Bush had installed in the late 80's is gorgeous.

Also loving the Navy Mess/Wardroom in the West Wing circa 1997. Much more un-done during the Kennedy Administration.
Perhaps one of the most interesting West Wing renos is turning the pre-1969 swimming pool into the Press Room! Seen here in 1948, my favorite in 1966, 1970 and 1986 quite similar to today.

Moving upstairs another classic room is the Cabinet Room. I am loving this photo circa 1903 and as it is today, photographed by Architectural Digest.

The Chief of Staff's Office as it is today, second photo. Originally this was the Secretary's Office in 1909.

And lastly for today, the Oval Office as it was originally constructed under President Taft. In 1927 under President Coolidge, President Roosevelt's Oval Office in 1936, President Truman's Oval Office in 1947, President Kenney's Oval Office in 1964, President Bush's Oval Office in 1992 and finally President Obama's today, as photographed in 2010. I highly suggest visiting the White House Museum's website to see the full evolution.

Regarding the East Wing, the origins for a structure start under President Jefferson who constructed a colonnaded terrace. Removed in 1866 the terrace was replaced with greenhouses. The original East Wing was constructed in 1902, under Theodore Roosevelt, as an entrance for visitors. The modern structure was built in 1942 with the intent to cover the construction of an underground bunker. And in Rosalynn Carter in 1977 was the first First Lady to place her personal office in the East Wing. For more images and history, please visit the White House Museum.

the white house, one of five

One of my favorite American architectural history websites is The White House Museum. I know, you are probably thinking, "yawn, we all know about the White House." Nevertheless, this week I wanted to do a little highlight of some of my favorites from their archives. They have an amazingly comprehensive account of the remodels and changes to both the structure and the interiors. I just love a good before and after, don't you?! So here are some photos to entice a visit to their site. The original facade circa 1800 and today.


The Grounds featuring the Jackie Kennedy Garden circa 1966, circa 1916 (with President Wilson and his wife, Edith), Circa 1904 and 1909 looking back into time.

The Rose Garden circa 1917, 1963 (with JFK Jr.) and in 1988.

And the South Lawn in 1992, in 1963, in 1933, in 1919 and 1911 with Taft going for a flight with Harry Atwood.

I had to include Marine One as we just went to the wedding of one of the former pilot's daughters; so fun! And I know five posts on one house seems excessive but trust me, it is a big house and each room has such a unique evolution that it can't possible all fit into one post! So please, stick around and tell me what you think of the rooms over time.

unleashed

It is finally here! All glorious, adorable four minutes:



Now that's a commercial.

unpainted inspiration

There is nothing quite like a good real estate listing for a peek into home living. I am loving the unpainted design of this Swedish listing via Full House. She just keeps finding great inspiration!

Also loving Aerin Lauder's ski house bedroom from Vogue

gush, I have a crush - michael penney

I discovered his work through a blogger/photographer called Meagan Camp. Michael is the Canadian king of high - low, mixing in thrift finds and high end fabrics, creating vignettes with readily available things. He has that creative ability that helps even renters create a glossy-worthy interior. See for yourself by watching his videos on Canada's House and Home or visiting his blog which always has accessible great finds. I highly suggest touring the house he shares with his wife, Sara. So many nomad friendly ideas!

Photos are by Michael Penney and design sponge

a good read - j.c. leyendecker

Yesterday I included a holiday image by illustrator J.C. Leyendecker. Largely under appreciated for his commercial illustrations, Leyendecker was one of the most successful and prolific artists of the Golden Age of American Illustration. He was dubbed the "Master of the Magazine Cover" by Norman Rockwell who modeled his career on this mentor. Between 1896 and 1950, Leyendecker painted more than 400 magazine covers, including 322 of which for The Saturday Evening Post alone. Admittedly, I've only thumbed through this book by Laurence Cutler. It is on my "sit down and read" list for the weekend. Bon week-end!

Images from Posters Please

gifted

In honor of Black Friday here in the States, you have to see this little Gifted shopping guide I found via Making it Lovely. The printable/download-able gift tags in the back are worth a peek themselves. I don't dare trek out lest I be trampled in some mall so I'll be hunkering down with my cocoa, thanks.