The White House Historical Association is opening a new White House immersive experience today (23 September) in Washington, DC.
The $56 million visitor attraction, called ‘the People’s House: A White House Experience’, is an interactive and educational experience that explores on of the world’s most important institutions.
Located less than a block away from the White House, the 33,000-square-foot, three-floor space features exhibits and galleries that bring the building and its history to life.
Stewart McLaurin, president of the White House Historical Association, said the new venue is “a transformational, technology-empowered experience that is deliberately designed to evolve alongside key moments within each presidency”.
“Every day, we will embrace creative thinking on how we can transform the space and its galleries to meet the needs of multiple generations and make the experience of White House history accessible for all,” he added.
First lady Jill Biden said: “This new immersive education center will take visitors on an incredible journey using technology and innovation to bring White House history to life.
“I’ve been personally involved in this project for the past two years, and especially as an educator, I’m so excited to see it opening to the public.”
At the People’s House, guests can visit a full-scale replica of the Oval Office, and experience the State Floor rooms through 360-degree immersive projections.
They can also walk through a recreation of the Rose Garden, and interact with framed digital portraits of White House staff.
‘The People’s House: A White House Experience’
Additionally, the People’s House includes a 1,500-square-foot flagship retail store, as well as an educational wing for students and other groups.
The People’s House is located in a building renovated by Gensler, with exhibits from Ralph Appelbaum Associates, a multidisciplinary firm specialising in the planning and design of museums, exhibits, educational environments and visitor attractions. Cortina Productions worked on the media design and production.
Sumita Aurora, principal at Gensler, said: “The three-level interactive exhibit offers an exceptionally engaging way to explore one of the nation’s most iconic landmarks and its global significance.”
Nick Appelbaum, president and CEO of Ralph Appelbaum Associates, said: “Visitors can expect a media-rich, immersive journey through White House history.”
Stephen Platenberg, president of Cortina Productions said: “This is a truly unique visitor experience with a high level of authentic immersion through both physical and digital environments.”
Images courtesy of the White House Historical Association
