The White House is instantly recognizable. But these new digital renderings show five alternate versions of what the building could have looked like.

The White House design was chosen in a public design competition launched by the country’s first president, George Washington, in 1792.

A front view of the White House. Photo: HouseFresh

By Erin Snodgrass

The stark-white, neoclassical mansion that sits at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue in the heart of the nation’s capital is one of the most recognizable buildings throughout the world.

But the hallowed seat of American politics and power could have looked completely different.

The White House design was chosen in a public design competition launched by the country’s first president, George Washington, in 1792, prompting famed architects and imaginative amateurs alike to create plans for a presidential home that could rival the lush palaces of Europe.

While Irish-born architect James Hoban’s familiar design was the ultimate winner, everyone from a former British soldier to future President Thomas Jefferson made a play for architectural renown.

Now, The Maryland Center for History and Culture has teamed up with HouseFresh to recreate the previously unseen entries, creating a set of digital renderings that offer a glimpse into…