Meridian House is an exquisite historic home situated on three acres of manicured gardens. Conveniently located a mile north of the White House in the heart of the nation's capital, the property's stately elegance provides an ideal setting for the area's most prestigious events. Meridian House is a jewel of the residential architecture of John Russell Pope, who also designed the Jefferson Memorial, the National Gallery of Art, and the National Archives building. The house is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Meridian House was built in 1921 by Ambassador Irwin Boyle Laughlin, who filled it with his collection of 18th century French drawings and Oriental porcelains and screens. After a major renovation in 1994, the principal rooms retain their architectural detail, including such original decorative features as the over-door paintings, French brass hardware and ornate lighting fixtures.
Standing the test of time, Meridian House is still considered by many to be the finest example of French urban architecture in the United States. Surrounded by walls sheltering a formal garden well-known for the grove of more than 40 European linden trees that shade a large pebbled courtyard, it is an elegant setting for private social or business events. Meridian House has been featured in publications including Washingtonian, Engaged, and Modern Bride.
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50 Reviews for Meridian House
Recommended by 93% of couples
Sara S. · Married on 11/09/2019
Most beautiful venue in DC!!
We knew that Meridian House was "the one" as soon as we walked through the front doors. We were absolutely blown away by how beautiful the entire house was, and so surprised that this hidden gem is in downtown DC and not in the French countryside! The layout was exactly what we wanted, separate rooms so our guests had a space to eat dinner, mingle, dance, etc. Luckily, we were able to do our "first look" photos outside with our photographer and videographer, and the photos in the side garden and the linden grove were stunning. Another great feature of Meridian House was the bridal suite room and private bathroom on the main level; it was great to have those available to us. Our ceremony was off-site, but the size of our wedding (97) was perfect for the reception (cocktail hour, dinner, dancing). Luckily, we were all able to fit in the Drawing Room for dinner. We also had bistro lights strung up outside in the linden grove (plus heaters), so the ambiance outside was stunning for those who were brave enough to go out in the cold! Our guests kept raving about Meridian House; everyone kept telling us what a perfect venue it was! We loved everything about it, and Maria and her team at Meridian House made our wedding better than we could've ever imagined!
Sent on 11/26/2019
Erica · Married on 06/22/2019
The most stunning and romantic venue
When mu (now) husband and I were looking at venues, Meridian House blew us away and we knew we had to get married there. The venue is so beautiful, romantic, and quiet despite being in the middle of a busy city. We used the garden for our ceremony, the linden grove for cocktail hour, had our reception inside, and a sparkler exit out front. Our guests were also able to sit down and enjoy the linden grove during the reception. Getting to use so many different spaces was so unique. Our guests were raving about the venue, many saying it was the most beautiful venue they had ever seen. We worked with Maria as our coordinator throughout the planning process, and Olivia the day of. Maria was so kind, helpful, and responsive through the whole process. Olivia was great and made sure that everything was running smoothly on Meridian's end the day of the wedding. I could not think of a more perfect venue, and I am so happy we got to get married at Meridian House.
Sent on 07/12/2019
Marie · Married on 04/13/2019
Not better venue in Washington, DC
Your guests will be delighted with the venue. Mention it to any other vendor in the industry and they gasp and say "My favorite venue!" It makes your day a fairytale.
Sent on 04/17/2019
7 Endorsements
The timeless elegance of Meridian House, from its grand staircase entrance, its ballrooms and gardens, defines your wedding.
Meridian House is one of the most beautiful and intimate venues in DC, and we absolutely love playing there. We've done dozens of weddings there over the years and the building and grounds are always impeccably maintained. It's fun to watch the wedding guests get that "Wow!" look on their faces as they walk through the mansion - definitely one of the top spots in the district. Highly recommend!
Meridian House is my favorite venue in DC. The interior and exterior are stunning and intimate, which make them a photographer's dream! Meridian House is a classic, gorgeous, intimate venue for any wedding.
