Old Executive Office Building
Quick Summary
The Old Executive Office Building in Washington, D.C., is a notable example of Second Empire style architecture, a style dominant in the latter half of the 19th century. This style is characterized by large, free-standing buildings with axial room arrangements, abundant classicistic detail, and a prominent mansard roof. The State, War, and Navy Department Building, as it was originally known, was designed by Alfred B. Mullett and completed in 1875. It is one of the largest and most ornate buildings in Washington, D.C., reflecting the grandeur of the Second Empire style. The building's architecture is influenced by the classical traditions that have shaped much of Washington's design, though it stands apart from the city's strict height restrictions.12
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- Alfred B. Mullett
The State, War, and Navy Building is Mullettās principal achievement. A massive structure in the Second Empire style, it was the largest office building in the world when completed. Steep mansard roofs with projecting dormers crown the building; the elaborate facadeāno area is unadornedāis covered withā¦
Read MoreThe State, War, and Navy Building is Mullettās principal achievement. A massive structure in the Second Empire style, it was the largest office building in the world when completed. Steep mansard roofs with projecting dormers crown the building; the elaborate facadeāno area is unadornedāis covered withā¦
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Second Empire styleGilman, 1862ā65) and the State, War, and Navy Department Building, Washington, D.C. (Alfred B. Mullett with Gilman, consultant, 1871ā75), as well as many mansions and county seats designed by American architects, such as Richard Morris Hunt, who followed the training of the Ćcole des Beaux-Arts in Paris. In Englandā¦
Read MoreGilman, 1862ā65) and the State, War, and Navy Department Building, Washington, D.C. (Alfred B. Mullett with Gilman, consultant, 1871ā75), as well as many mansions and county seats designed by American architects, such as Richard Morris Hunt, who followed the training of the Ćcole des Beaux-Arts in Paris. In Englandā¦
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