Take a moment to look around this room, and you might begin to imagine the conversations of Thomas Jefferson, his family, and their guests. The portraits on the walls told stories. Explorers of the Americas, principle characters of the American Revolution, and leading European intellectuals reflect Jefferson’s enthusiasm for pursuing knowledge and his commitment to self-governance. Jefferson designed this room for entertaining. The room is filled with typical pastimes of the day, including musical instruments and a chess set. Chess was one of Jefferson’s favorite games. Perhaps most impressive is the original parquet floor. The cherry and beech wood panels were installed by Irish woodworker James Dinsmore and enslaved woodworker John Hemmings. Glass doors on the far wall opened up to the west lawn and its flower gardens.