A few days before the inauguration of the 47th President of the United States, we want to take a look at the facade of the house that is at the center of these power games: the White House. Its turbulent history and its inhabitants too often paint over the aesthetic aspects, finding their roots in ancient architecture.

In the vast expanse of human endeavor, where governance meets philosophy, the White House emerges as a beacon, echoing the ideals of ancient Greek agora where democracy was born. This architectural marvel, cloaked in the garments of neoclassical design, stands not just as the residence of America's leadership but as a living testament to the timeless interplay between temporarily transferred power and personal freedom.

Architectural Elements: At its core, the White House is a masterpiece of neoclassical design, an homage to the grandeur of ancient Greece. Constructed between 1792 and 1800, the cornerstone was laid in October 1792 under the supervision of the first President of the United States, George Washington. The building's facade is adorned with the Doric columns, simple yet robust, reminiscent of the Parthenon in Athens. These columns are not just structural; they symbolize strength in their doric robustness and metaphysics and the enduring nature of the republic. Imagine the Doric column in a very naturalistic way, like a muscle or a leg that swells when rammed into the ground to bear the weight on it. Hence the swelling towards the bottom of the column. The Greeks valued harmony and balance, principles echoed in every line and curve of this iconic structure.

The pediment, another Greek influence, sits atop the columns, offering a canvas for sculptural relief that, in our modern context, could represent the ongoing narrative of American democracy. Imagine if each administration (the 'normal' ones at least) added its own piece of history here; a visual testament to the evolution of thought and policy.

Philosophical Underpinnings The Greek influence extends beyond mere aesthetics. The philosophy of democracy, freedom, and the pursuit of knowledge, values cherished by ancient Greeks, are reflected in the White House's very essence. Plato's Republic (I know he hated democracy) speaks of a 'philosopher-king', an ideal ruler guided by wisdom rather than power. The White House, designed by the Irish-born architect James Hoban, who won a public competition for the design, could be seen as a physical manifestation of this ideal - a place where governance is ideally conducted with enlightenment rather than mere authority. At least this was the idea whatever grew out of it later on...

Furthermore, the Socratic method of questioning and dialogue can be paralleled with the American system of checks and balances, where different branches of government challenge and refine each other's decisions, ensuring no single entity holds unbridled power.

The Paradox of Power But let's not be naive. The White House, with its pristine Greek inspiration, also harbors the paradoxes of power. Like the Greeks who celebrated freedom while maintaining a society of slaves, the White House has seen its share of contradictions - decisions that have both advanced and hindered the very freedoms it symbolizes. The construction of the White House involved not only skilled artisans but also enslaved labor, a fact that adds a layer of complexity to its architectural and philosophical narrative.

Construction Period, Costs, and Modern Value The original construction of the White House cost approximately $232,372, a sum that, adjusted for inflation, would be around $100 million today. However, if we were to replicate the White House today, considering modern building standards, materials, and labor costs, estimates suggest a cost ranging from $90 million to over $369 million, depending on various factors like location and the inclusion of historical artifacts and furnishings. This valuation reflects not only the physical structure but also the cultural and historical significance embedded within its walls.

Modern Echoes of Greek Architecture In contemporary architecture, the influence of Greek elements isn't just ceremonial; it's practical and motivational. Architects today often integrate classical Greek forms to evoke a sense of timelessness, stability, and intellectual pursuit. Banks, courthouses, and universities frequently adopt these styles to project an image of enduring integrity and knowledge, a form of unspoken superiority and power within a framework of liberty. The use of Greek architecture in modern contexts reminds us to balance innovation with tradition, encouraging architects and designers to approach their work with a respect for history while pushing the boundaries of what's possible.

This fusion of old and new motivates designers to think beyond the immediate; to consider how their creations will stand not just in the present but in the annals of history. Just as Greek temples were meant to be places of contemplation and power (they usually housed state treasuries), modern buildings inspired by these designs invite us to ponder our place in the world, the legacy we leave, and the values we uphold.

In essence, the White House is more than a governmental office; it's a philosophical statement, a beacon of democratic ideals wrapped in the timeless elegance of Greek architecture. It stands as a testament to the belief that governance should be an art, guided by the principles of balance, beauty, and the eternal quest for truth and justice. The application of Greek architectural elements in today's buildings serves as both an homage to the past and a motivation for the future, urging architects, leaders, and citizens alike to engage with the world thoughtfully and with an eye towards legacy. Yet, it also serves as a daily reminder of the responsibilities that come with power, encouraging us to question, learn, and strive for a better tomorrow, much like the philosophers of old. At least, that's what we the sovereign, should demand every day by those who received temporary power.