The Oval Office in the White House features two concealed doors, known as jib doors, designed to blend seamlessly with the room’s decor. These doors are covered with the same wallpaper and molding as the surrounding walls, making them nearly invisible to the untrained eye. They provide discreet access to adjacent areas, such as the president’s secretary’s office, without disrupting the room’s aesthetic harmony.
The design choice to include these hidden doors was intentional, aiming to maintain the Oval Office’s architectural integrity. Architect David J. Gill noted, “The Oval Office has two major doors, three windows, and two more window/doors and the two concealed doors.” Incorporating additional elaborate doors could have compromised the room’s design clarity.
These jib doors have occasionally sparked curiosity and speculation. For instance, during a meeting between President Donald Trump and UK Prime Minister Theresa May, a concealed door was observed behind them, leading to discussions on social media. However, such doors are standard features of the Oval Office, serving practical purposes while preserving the room’s iconic appearance.
For a visual demonstration of one of these hidden doors, you might find the following video