The People’s House: A White House Experience
Washington, D.C.
The People’s House: A White House Experience, created by the White House Historical Association, is a groundbreaking educational adventure that tells the story of America’s Executive Mansion and the people dedicated to its functions. Located just one block from the White House, it opens the doors to the history of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue like never before, revealing lived White House experiences via media-driven, immersive exhibition programming.
The experience is rooted in the overarching themes of the White House as a place for governing, living, and entertaining. Each gallery is designed to encourage group learning and individual moments of discovery. Dynamic encounters allow visitors to journey through multiple centuries of White House history and explore rooms rarely accessed by the public.
A striking 1:5 scale model of the White House serves as a grand canvas for the introductory experience that traces its architectural story from 1790 to the present day. On the other side, a digitally augmented, meticulously crafted scale replica offers behind-the-scenes glimpses into 19 rooms. A choreographed multimedia program brings the White House to life, as visitors use tablets to activate various rooms and see historic and contemporary moments fill the space.
A state-of-the-art 360° Immersive Theater virtually whisks visitors away to each of the State Floor Rooms, while a recreation of the West Colonnade allows them to walk in the president’s footsteps to a full-scale replica of the Oval Office. On the Second Floor, they can meet White House Staff through a series of interactive stations, take a front row seat in a historic Cabinet Room meeting, and experience the grandeur of a State Dinner.
The People’s House is more than an exhibit; it’s an immersive journey that unveils the influential figures and pivotal moments in White House history, ensuring its story remains engaging and accessible for generations to come.
Size 12,500 square feet
Year 2024
Architect Gensler
Project Details
Exhibition FabricationDesign & Production
Media ProductionCortina Productions
Lighting DesignAbernathy Lighting Design
IllustratorStephanie Rozzo
Copy EditorAmanda Krupman
General ContractorHITT
Owner’s RepresentativeJM Zell Partners
Photography Sahar Coston-Hardy / Esto
“This is a place that makes you feel connected — to democracy, to history, and to each other.”
—Kathy M.
“This is truly the People’s House, built to inspire and welcome everyone.”
—Branka B.
“An educational record like no other … immersive and stimulating; a complete learning experience.”
@myfotosmylifenk3
“Educational in a very fun and technologically advanced way.”
@barbaranoekennedy
“Wonderful look at the history and function of the White House.”
—Graeme C.
“Une journée à Washington D.C.”
@dky0612
“A day filled with inspiration, history, and pride.”
@sunshineprojectsmd_
“An amazing and immersive way to experience the White House in a unique setting!”
—Alberto R.
“Really unique and interactive experience.”
—Lakeisha W.
“Allows you to feel like you are inside the White House without the security and freedom of touching everything.”
—Nivializ P.
“Being able to go in the Oval Office and stand in that doorway was something I will always cherish.”
—Don S.
“The exhibits are beautifully designed, offering a deep look into the lives of past presidents and the significance of the building.”
—Lorena V.
“A great balance of information and interactive experiences.”
—Pamela
“What a great way to learn about the history and layout of the White House!”
—Joseph M.
“We were impressed with the interactive and engaging exhibits, really interesting and innovative in their design.”
—Kelly T.
“An Oval-whelmingly great time at The People’s House.”
@ugadcsemester
“Simply touch the wall and it’ll show you magic and history.”
—Alisa S.
“It’s like stepping into the history of the White House in an interactive way.”
—Hanny R.
“Packed with such curated care.”
—Ingrid A.
“I learned a lot about the people and stories that make America’s most famous home so special.”
—James T.
“Interactive, modern, and gives you a solid sense of White House history without feeling stuffy.”
—Jesus P.
“A great way to get a feel for the White House.”
—Lena H.
“It’s educational without feeling boring, and the kids were genuinely into it the whole time, which says a lot.”
—Evelyne L.
“It felt like practically taking part in a meeting with the president!”
—Maruf H.
“The exhibits are interactive and immersive, making White House history feel exciting and accessible for all ages.”
—Sophia U.