Donald Trump has revealed plans for a major transformation at the White House with what he describes as an ‘exquisite addition.’
This week, a White House press release disclosed that a significant change is on the horizon for the grand residence, specifically in the East Wing, which is set for a major renovation.
Officials have announced that the wing will undergo a ‘modernization’ and expansion to add a 90,000 square foot ballroom, designed to accommodate up to 650 guests.
This new ballroom will serve as the primary hosting area, replacing the current East Room, which has a capacity of about 200 people.
The estimated cost for this ambitious project is around $200 million, with construction slated to begin in September.
The White House justified the construction by pointing out the current lack of adequate space, which has resulted in the need to set up a ‘large and unsightly tent’ outside to host additional guests.
“The White House Ballroom will be substantially separated from the main building of the White House, but at the same time, its theme and architectural heritage will be almost identical,” the release stated, according to PEOPLE.
“The site of the new ballroom will be where the small, heavily changed, and reconstructed East Wing currently sits.”
Sneak peek blueprint images indicate that the new space will closely align with the architectural style of the existing White House campus.
The construction plans also include renderings of the ballroom’s design, featuring a spacious room adorned with elaborate gold accents on the chandeliers and ornate ceiling.
Trump, known for his affinity for gold, is reportedly funding the project along with other private donors.
While the White House did not specify a completion date, it expects the ballroom to be open ‘long before the end of President Trump’s term.’
This announcement is concurrent with the contentious reconstruction of other areas on the White House grounds, including the alteration of the Rose Garden lawn, originally installed during President John F. Kennedy’s tenure.
Trump explained that the lawn was problematic for women wearing high heels, as it would cause them to sink into the ground.
Since then, the Rose Garden’s grassy area has been converted into a concrete patio, which White House officials have defended as a ‘restoration’ that respects the historical significance of the White House and the Rose Garden.
Similarly, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed that the latest refurbishment plans for the ballroom would not completely replace the East Wing but rather ‘modernize’ it.
The East Wing, traditionally used as office space for the first lady and staff, will be temporarily relocated until construction is finished.