Heads of state around the world live in iconic homes. See part 2 of the G7 list below. Part 1 here.
Japan – Naikaku Sōri Daijin Kantei
The Naikaku Sōri Daijin Kantei, translated to English as the Prime Minister’s Office, is commonly referred to as Kantei. This building houses the office, but not the residence, of the Prime Minister. The building is five stories high. The first, fourth, and fifth floors house the main rooms in the building. The first floor is home to the press conference room and is routinely used by the Prime Minister and Chief Cabinet Secretary. The fourth floor contains a room for the Cabinet’s summits, meetings, etc. and the fifth floor includes both the Prime Minister’s and Chief Cabinet Secretary’s offices. This relatively new building replaced the previous office building Prime Minister which now serves the personal residential quarters. The quarters are known as Naikaku Sōri Daijin Kōtei.
Current Prime Minister: Shigegru Ishiba
United Kingdom – 10 Downing Street
Located in the City of Westminster, London 10 Downing Street is the official office and residence of the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. Just a short 7 minute drive and on the opposite side of James’s Park from Buckingham Palace the 300 year old building is a common stop for visiting foreign leaders and tourists alike. Built by architect Christopher Wren for diplomat Sir George Downing, the building houses over one hundred rooms including the primary residence, offices, and conference rooms utilized by the Prime Minister when hosting official visitors.
Current Prime Minister: Sir Keir Starmer
United States – The White House
When the United States of America moved from Philadelphia to Washington D.C. the White House was built to serve as the primary residence and office of the executive branch of the U.S. Federal Government. The home was designed Irish by Architect James Hoban and inspired by the Leinster House in Dublin.
Current President: Joe Biden
