The impressive Roman Temple form and the continued presence of the Customs Service in this building are constant reminders of the city's long and vital history in the pursuit of world trade.

[3] The primary facade of the building displays the high-style characteristics of Roman architecture with sweeping steps leading to the pedimented portico.

Centered under the projecting portico is a pair of entrance doors flanked by elongated windows embellished with granite surrounds.

Single-leaf entry doors at the corners of the ground floor were originally designed as separate male and female entrances to the Post Office lobby.

Window openings, placed between the strong vertical forms of the Corinthian pilasters, pierce the symmetrically fenestrated side elevations of the building.

The openings are embellished with molded granite surrounds, pedimented lintels, flat arches, and bracketed sills.

The building is richly adorned by a classically inspired cast-iron entablature with frieze, modillions, and molded cornice.

Between 1901 and 1912, the Office of the Supervising Architect under James Knox Taylor oversaw alterations including the installation of new double-hung wood sash windows.

A single-story addition at the rear of the building, constructed in 1935 under the direction of the Office of the Supervising Architect under James A. Wetmore, continues the original design in style, scale, and finish.

The rusticated limestone masonry of the addition continues the coursing and rhythm of the original building, although the interiors are more modest in detailing.