In addition to its importance as a residence of the Hoovers, the house is a significant early example of the International Style of architecture.

[3] Prior to the end of World War I, the Hoovers had commissioned architect Louis Christian Mullgardt to design their Stanford home; however, Mullgardt publicized his appointment prior to the end of the war, angering the Hoovers, who felt that it was an inopportune time in the waning months of a terrible conflict to announce the construction of a large home.

[4] After several consultations the Hoovers convinced Arthur Bridgman Clark, a Stanford art professor who practiced freelance architecture during the summer, to be their architect.

[6] Herbert Hoover's contribution was to order that the home be fireproof, and the walls were constructed of hollow tiles.

[7] This article incorporates public domain material from websites or documents of the National Park Service.