Trump's Grand Vision: Transforming the White House
President Donald Trump is leaving his mark on the White House in a big way. From towering flagpoles to a massive, 90,000-square-foot ballroom, Trump's ambitious renovations are set to reshape the iconic building and its grounds. He envisions a "great legacy project" that will enhance the White House for future administrations.
A Ballroom Fit for a President
The centerpiece of Trump's plan is the construction of a state-of-the-art ballroom off the East Wing. This addition aims to solve a long-standing problem: the White House's limited capacity for hosting large events. Currently, the White House often relies on temporary tents pitched on the South Lawn, which Trump considers a less-than-ideal solution, especially during inclement weather.
The new ballroom will comfortably accommodate 650 seated guests, a significant upgrade from the East Room's current capacity of 200. Trump estimates the project will cost around $200 million, funded through a combination of his own resources and private donations. He sees it as his "gift to the country."
More Than Just a Ballroom
Beyond the ballroom, Trump's vision includes other significant changes. Two large flagpoles now grace the North and South Lawns, displaying massive American flags. The Rose Garden has undergone a transformation, with grass replaced by stone to mimic the patio at Mar-a-Lago.
The Team Behind the Transformation
McCrery Architects, known for its classical design expertise, has been chosen as the lead architect for the ballroom project. CEO Jim McCrery expressed his honor in contributing to this "beautiful and necessary renovation." Clark Construction will head the construction team, with AECOM leading the engineering efforts.
Construction is slated to begin in September 2025, with the goal of completing the project before the end of Trump's term. The renovations promise to modernize the White House while preserving its historical elegance.