Inside the White House: The Hidden Flower Shop Beneath the North Portico

Tucked away in the basement of the White House, directly under the North Portico, is a fully operational flower shop run by the White House Chief Floral Designer and a dedicated team. Their work touches nearly every corner of the Executive Mansion — from daily arrangements that brighten workspaces to the elaborate displays seen at official events and State Dinners.

Although flowers have long been part of White House décor, the modern role of the Chief Floral Designer was formalized in the 1960s by First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy. 

She introduced a more natural, expressive style, moving away from the tightly packed, dome‑shaped arrangements popular in earlier decades.

Today, the floral team continues to follow the aesthetic principles Mrs. Kennedy championed. Many arrangements subtly reference the favorite flowers of the current First Lady or honor visiting dignitaries. To keep everything looking fresh, displays are replaced twice a week.

Image: Official White House Photo by Joyce N. Boghosian

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