Jefferson designed one of the most architecturally significant residences in America. The first Monticello was a two-story, eight-room house that revealed his knowledge of classical architecture. In 1796, inspired by neoclassical buildings he had seen while serving as American minister to France, Jefferson began transforming Monticello into a three-story, 21-room brick structure. Inside and out, Jefferson’s free and enslaved workmen made his design a reality. Jefferson filled his house with furnishings and collections reflecting his education, broad interests, and status. He employed labor-saving technology for efficiency and maximized light and heat for optimal comfort.
Gallery of Images and Videos about the Monticello house
Monticello’s West Front, which is featured on the
Windows and Light at Monticello (approximate running time, 2:40)
Dumbwaiters at Monticello (approximate running time, 2:03)
Chessmen, ivory, French, ca. 1770–90 - Jefferson, an avid chess player, acquired this set while living in Paris as American minister to France. The red pieces represent Africans, and the white pieces represent Frenchmen.
Walking stick, whalebone, ivory, and gold, 1809 - Jefferson’s walking sticks included one of whalebone, ivory, and gold (top) given to him by his friend Joseph C. Cabell, who, with Jefferson, was instrumental in founding the University of Virginia.
Tablespoon and forks, fiddle and thread pattern, silver, French, 1784 - Jefferson bought “table furniture” soon after arriving in Paris in 1784. As American minister to Paris, he outfitted his own house. Jefferson later used at Monticello many of the household goods he acquired in Paris.