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I encountered this truth firsthand when I sought to uncover the exquisite American War of Independence wallpaper designed by French artist Jean-Julien Deltil and created by the firm Jean Zuber and Co. This wallpaper was hidden behind the walls of the President’s Dining Room in the private Family Quarters. Created in 1852 and initially acquired by the Astor family, this exceptional piece was ultimately concealed beneath a wall treatment. My mission to restore and reveal it was driven by a commitment to preserving a vital piece of our American narrative. The successful unveiling of this work was not merely an act of restoration; it was an investment in the future of our nation’s story.
Great design transcends aesthetic appeal; it shapes our lived experiences.
It fosters collaboration, conveys dignity, inspires ambition, and creates a sense of belonging to something larger. This philosophy guided my work on the White House Tennis Pavilion, designed in collaboration with the Trust for the National Mall, the Executive Residence, and the National Park Service, and approved by the Committee for the Preservation of the White House, the Commission of Fine Arts, and the National Capital Planning Commission in 2018. Every detail was thoughtfully considered to ensure the new structure harmonized with the historic neoclassical character of the White House Grounds.
Completed in 2020, the White House Tennis Pavilion later earned two distinguished architectural awards: the 2025 Palladio Award and the John Russell Pope Award. These honors recognize its design inspiration, which echoes the White House itself through doric columns, fanlight windows, limestone cladding, and a copper roof.
The Pavilion exemplifies the power of thoughtful design and serves as a bridge that connects people and generations through shared history.
As stewards of the places shaped by those before us, we are tasked with making decisions that honor future generations. It is our duty to ensure that the choices we make today are worthy of the legacy we pass forward.
And now, it is my honor to introduce John Rogers, the Chairman of the Board of the White House Historical Association. John is not just a remarkable leader; he is a steadfast ally and supporter, dedicated to preserving the rich heritage of our nation’s most iconic residence. His passion for history and commitment to education inspire all of us to champion the values and stories that shape our democracy. With John’s unwavering support, we are empowered to continue our vital mission and ensure that the legacy of the White House endures for generations to come.
Distributed on September 9th, 2026.
https://x.com/WHPressPool/status/2097809901376426214

White House Press Pool Reports @WHPressPool - 🛫 Out-of-town pool report #6 - WH on slide
Your pooler reached out to the White House regarding the inflatable slide:
“As the President has said, the slide was checked out to make sure everything works perfectly. Air Force One is on its way to Dallas so he can deliver his much-anticipated speech to a raucous and sold-out crowd.” – Steven Cheung
On background from a person briefed with the situation: “Military personnel accidentally triggered the slide.”
Danny Kemp
AFP