One summer in High School, my friends and I went to Washington, D.C. with our Congressman. One of the places we went to was the United States Capitol. The Capitol style is neoclassical architecture. The iconic Capitol Dome is a main feature of the building. First built in 1824 by Charles Bullfinch, the materials consisted of wood and copper. It was later rebuilt to be larger and stronger being made out of iron. On the top is a Statue of Freedom . While visiting my experience was unique. We climbed stairs between the outside and inside of the dome. They took us to the balconies in the Capitol Rotunda. The top balcony was so high I latched onto the railing to look over only for a second. I got to examine the artwork on the top close up. The theme was Greek-like just like the neoclassical architecture. On this balcony if someone is speaking across from you it sounds like they are right next to you. The outside balcony is right under the Statue of Freedom. Knowing it was something the general public could not do and the extraordinary view made it unforgettable. (these are my pictures I took of the Capitol and its views)

My hometown, roughly six square miles, sits only 3 miles from downtown Dallas, Texas. All of the homes are custom built. That in mind, a house on the corner of Armstrong Parkway and Preston pops out when driving by. We call it the “Mushroom House”. Built by architect Tom Workman in 1997, the 5,576 square foot home sits on .76 acres. The iconic feature, the roof, refers to the shape of a mushroom with green shingles. These shingles were custom made. The yard has pointed awnings made of purple and green strips. They illuminate the creative design. The home has a cottage look with  fairy tale and imaginary references. Growing up I remember it being built. The “Mushroom House” took my first fascination in architecture. I always wondered about the story of the eccentric design, and how  it came into the mind of the owners. Every time I drive down Preston I can not help but look. Though it truly doesn’t fit compared to the homes around it, its bizarre design makes it truly one of a kind.