The Presidency by Hugh Sidey: Whisper of the White Walls

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Scouten and his experts found a new paint that could be washed instead of replenished. But the paint job will not be finally finished until 2004 because the process is so complicated and expensive. (The U.S. dollar has proved less sturdy than the sandstone: it has already cost the Federal Government more money—$283,000—to repaint the grand old mansion than to build the place.) One other secret. The White House is not going to be pure white. Scouten wanted a paint that would dazzle the eye in the sun and yet glow with a mellow gold in the night lights. He found it among Duron's 1,000 shades. It is called Whisper.