The Irish architect James Hoban designed the White House in Washington D.C. Work began in 1793 and was completed in 1800. The mansion serves as the home for American presidents. During the War of 1812, the building was damaged by the British. It was later painted white to cover the damage, which is how it got its name. The formal name "White House" was established in 1901 by President Theodore Roosevelt, though it was previously known as the "Executive Mansion."