Undeniably, the Rayburn House Office Building stands as a testament to congressional power. This colossal structure is located on Capitol Hill in Washington D.C. It is named after former Speaker of the House Sam Rayburn.
Completed in 1965, the Rayburn House Office Building is the largest congressional office building. It offers 2.375 million square feet of space.
In March 1955, Sam Rayburn proposed a third House office building. At that time, a site was not yet identified. No architectural study had been conducted. No plans had been prepared.
The area west of the Longworth Building was selected. The cornerstone was laid in May 1962. Full occupancy commenced in February 1965.
J. George Stewart, the Architect of the Capitol, chose Harbeson, Hough, Livingston & Larson to design it. The goal was a classical building that harmonized with other Capitol Hill structures.
Interestingly, the Rayburn building’s interior contrasts with other House Office Buildings. While others feature cherry wood paneling and brass railings, Rayburn showcases a 1960s style. Chrome push bars, space-age lighting, and modern elevators define its aesthetic.
An underground transportation system connects the Rayburn House Office Building to the Capitol. Pedestrian tunnels also link it to the Longworth House Office Building.
The original congressional bill allocated $2 million for construction. However, additional sums exceeded $99 million. This funded a gymnasium and other facilities.
Few know that the Rayburn building houses a gymnasium. It is located below the sub-basement level. It features cardio machines and weightlifting equipment. Also in the third floor basement is a shooting range run by the U.S. Capitol Police. A basketball court can be found there too.
In May 2006, the FBI raided the Rayburn Building office of Congressman William J. Jefferson. This marked the first time the FBI had raided a sitting congressman’s office. The raid sparked constitutional questions and a House Judiciary Committee hearing.
Another little-known fact involves a false alarm in May 2006. Reports of gunfire in the garage led to a lockdown. Congressman Jim Saxton mistook construction sounds for gunshots.
The building’s design is a modified H plan with four principal floors. It has three underground garage levels, a basement, and a penthouse. Its facade is white marble above a pink granite base.
Outside the main entrance, marble statues stand guard. They are named Spirit of Justice and Majesty of Law. Above the door, Ionic columns support a portico.
Inside, a monumental staircase leads to an entrance hall. Marble walls and bronze elements adorn the space.
The Rayburn House Office Building also features artworks honoring Sam Rayburn. A bronze statue stands in the lobby. A marble bust and an oil portrait commemorate his legacy.
The Rayburn Garage is an easy place to get lost. The concrete down there was quite literally falling apart. A piece of the ceiling even fell right on top of a car.
From its hidden gym to its artistic tributes, the Rayburn House Office Building encapsulates congressional history. It also showcases architectural evolution. Its story is one of power, controversy, and unexpected amenities.