Inside Blair House: Most Prestigious And Historical Guest House Where PM Modi Is Staying In US

Blair House is more than just a luxurious guest house. It's a symbol of American hospitality and diplomacy, a place where relationships are forged, and history is made. It is a luxurious, 70,000-square-foot extension of the White House.

Blair House is often referred to as the "President's Guest House" in the United States. It serves as a temporary residence for the President-elect before their inauguration and also accommodates visiting foreign dignitaries, including heads of state and high-ranking officials, during their stay in Washington, D.C.

According to the Blair House Foundation, the residence is maintained by the Office of the Chief of Protocol of the U.S. State Department in collaboration with the General Services Administration. However, only the President extends invitations for guests to stay at Blair House. The property consists of 119 rooms, including multiple bedrooms, reception areas, and offices.

Blair House is situated directly across from the White House on Pennsylvania Avenue and is considered even more luxurious than the White House itself. It has played a significant role in American political, diplomatic, and cultural history for nearly two centuries. The house was originally built in 1824 as a private residence for Surgeon General Joseph Lovell of the U.S. Army.

In 1836, President Andrew Jackson’s close advisor, Francis Preston Blair Sr., acquired the property, which is how Blair House got its name. The U.S. government purchased it in 1942, and since then, it has been an integral part of American diplomacy, serving as the official residence for visiting foreign dignitaries.

Blair House is a four-story building and, in terms of square footage, is larger than the White House. It includes 14 guest suites, each equipped with modern amenities, and a total of 35 bathrooms. The residence is adorned with exquisite paintings, chandeliers, and elegant furnishings, reflecting its historical and diplomatic significance. It also has a team of dedicated chefs to cater to guests, and its maintenance and decor are funded by the U.S. government.