James Hoban, born and raised in Ireland, spent his youth preparing for one of his most recognized architectural triumphs, earning the prestigious right to oversee the design of George Washington’s presidential home.  This world renowned building would eventually come to be known as The White House.  As a young man, he studied his craft at the Dublin Society School, where he learned an appreciation for the arts which eventually translated to his architectural works here in the United States.

George Washington had high expectations for the building and design process of The Presidential House, and a few of the original members of his planning team did not make the cut.  Hoban, however, was the only architect to participate in the entire initial phase of construction from beginning to end, as he shared the ultimate vision of our nation’s first president.  His building plans, a reflection of the Leinster House in Dublin, represented the winning entry of an architectural competition put forth by President Washington.

Although George Washington never lived in The Presidential House, he had enough foresight to ensure the building would be versatile and easily expandable.  By employing Hoban as the primary architect and engaging him as a confidante, President Washington knew his wishes would be carried out in an efficient and diplomatic manner.  There has always been a minor hint of scandal surrounding Hoban’s appointment to such a dignified and proximate position with President Washington, and it is often suggested that Hoban may have been dealt “insider information” regarding the competition itself.  He spent nearly forty years realizing the dream of a single monumental home where each successive presidency could live with their families, entertain dignitaries and govern an independent nation.

The White House in Washington, D.C.

In addition to having his design chosen, Hoban was also granted property rights to a plot of land adjacent to The White House, although it appears that he chose to live elsewhere with his wife and children.  As was typical during this era, Hoban was also a slave owner, but he had the reputation both on and off the worksite of being exceptionally kind and judicious.  Most likely, it was this affable good nature and esteem that earned the trust and collaboration of at least six United States’ Presidents.

While it is true that Hoban’s involvement with the White House construction is his most recognizable and noteworthy achievement, he has also contributed significantly to architectural trends, both in Ireland and in the United States.  His career began as an apprentice to Thomas Cooley, principal of Dublin Drawing School, and assisting with drafting and supervising the building of the Royal Exchange, which is now referred to as Dublin City Hall and has recently been restored.   Although his preferred architectural style, Georgian Dublin, eventually became symbolic of detested British rule over Ireland, Hoban carried its distinct proportions in scale and grandeur to his new home in America.  Characterized by the interesting texture of brick or stone facades, eye catching in the use of ornate door and entryways, Georgian Dublin was well suited for the many governmental buildings Hoban eventually designed or restored.  The Greek and Roman architectural influences are also evident in a number of Hoban’s signature buildings.

When reviewing the life and work of James Hoban, it is important to consider how his leadership ability earned the respect of so many American political dignitaries and certainly led to his overwhelming success in this country.  Unfortunately, it was not until recently that he would earn the same recognition from Ireland, his native homeland.  A commemorative celebration was held in honor of Hoban and his accomplishments in October 2006; other events are planned over the next two years, including the establishment of a memorial arboretum near his birthplace in Desart, Ireland and an illustrated collection of his architectural legacy.