James Hoban was an Irish-born American architect who designed the White House in Washington, D.C. He was appointed by President George Washington in 1792 and his design was chosen from among eight submitted. His plan for the White House included a central block with two wings, which were later extended. He also designed the South Portico and North Portico, as well as the East and West Terraces. He is credited with introducing the Palladian style of architecture to the United States.