This photo, taken less than four years after the New House Office Building’s opening, shows the neoclassical revival style of the exterior, which was popular in the 1930s. The building’s principal portico—shown here, facing Independence Avenue—was inspired by architect George Hatfield’s 1820 design for the District of Columbia City Hall. The design was chosen to harmonize with the neighboring Capitol and Old House Office Building. By the 1960s, both old and new House office buildings had been given names (Cannon and Longworth, respectively) that better matched their stately facades.
