Designed by Washington, D.C., architect and Washington and Lee alumnus B. C. Flournoy, the building is a striking example of Beaux-Arts Classicism with its six, fluted Doric columns forming an in antis loggia. The full entablature above includes a decorated frieze with swords, the federal seal, and a caduceus, symbol of Mercury, messenger of the gods—an appropriate symbol for those who deliver the mail. The interior's fine detailing includes a terrazzo floor, marble wainscoting, and Corinthian pilasters.