Washington D.C. Architecture | Magnolias & the Smithsonian Castle 🏰

What could be better than admiring flowers, snapping photos, and soaking in historic architecture all at once? This is my second-favorite building on the National Mall—I’ll share my top pick another day! 😉 Built between 1849 and 1855, this striking red sandstone structure is the Smithsonian’s very first museum building. Designed by James Renwick through a design competition (fun fact: Renwick also designed the Renwick Gallery near the White House—highly recommend for photos! 📸), it showcases beautiful Gothic Revival style with pointed arches, tall towers, and elegant windows. Originally, marble was considered, but they eventually chose red sandstone sourced right from Maryland. 🧱 Over the years, it served as a museum, then administrative offices, and later as a visitor center. Last year, it began a five-year renovation—so exciting! Behind the Castle lies the beloved Enid Haupt Garden ☀️🌿. Designed by Lester Collins in 1987, this Victorian-style garden features geometric layouts filled with saucer magnolias and seasonal flowers. At its heart, a diamond-shaped flowerbed changes with the seasons—so every visit offers a new bloom! 🌸🌻 Have you visited the Smithsonian Castle or strolled through the Enid Haupt Garden? What’s your favorite building in D.C.? Share below! 👇 #WashingtonDC #IconicArchitecture #ArchitecturePhotography #ArchitecturalArt #ArtAndDesign #MagnoliaBlossoms #SpringFlowers #DCGardens #HistoricBuildings #UrbanExploration