The new space aims to accommodate larger events and replace temporary structures, enhancing the architectural integrity of the White House.
**White House Announces Ambitious $200M Ballroom Project**
**White House Announces Ambitious $200M Ballroom Project**
Plans for the new ballroom come as part of the Trump administration's ongoing enhancements to the historic building.
The White House has revealed plans for a significant $200 million project to construct a new ballroom, echoing a long-standing desire of President Donald Trump. The ballroom, which will accommodate up to 650 guests, is set to be located next to a modernized East Wing, currently home to First Lady Melania Trump and essential White House offices. Funding for the project will come directly from Trump alongside several anonymous donations, with construction slated to begin this September, as indicated by Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt.
The current East Room of the White House, which serves as the primary venue for many official functions, can only seat around 200 attendees. This new ballroom will eliminate the need for unsightly tents that are typically erected on the South Lawn for larger state dinners and gatherings, which often include guests of state. "This exquisite addition is much needed," Leavitt remarked, noting that completion is expected before the conclusion of Trump’s presidency in January 2029.
Chief of Staff Susie Wiles emphasized the administration's dedication to preserving the White House’s historical context in conjunction with the new development. The ballroom is projected to feature lavish design elements such as chandeliers and ornate columns, aligning architecturally with the existing structure of the White House. Leslie Greene Bowman, a member of the Committee for the Preservation of the White House and veteran of service under four administrations, expressed hope that the project would honor the building's rich legacy as a democratic institution.
In preparation for the renovations, offices within the East Wing, including that of the First Lady, will be temporarily relocated to accommodate construction. Trump, who has previously expressed his aspiration for a ballroom at official functions, reiterated his vision at a recent event, stating, "No president knew how to build a ballroom. I could take this one, drop it right down there, and it would be beautiful."
This initiative follows the president's notorious 2016 offer of $100 million for a similar ballroom during Barack Obama’s term, which was dismissed by the then-Press Secretary as inappropriate. The upcoming construction represents another chapter in Trump's ongoing renovations to the White House, which has already seen changes like new flagpoles and decor updates in the Oval Office.
The current East Room of the White House, which serves as the primary venue for many official functions, can only seat around 200 attendees. This new ballroom will eliminate the need for unsightly tents that are typically erected on the South Lawn for larger state dinners and gatherings, which often include guests of state. "This exquisite addition is much needed," Leavitt remarked, noting that completion is expected before the conclusion of Trump’s presidency in January 2029.
Chief of Staff Susie Wiles emphasized the administration's dedication to preserving the White House’s historical context in conjunction with the new development. The ballroom is projected to feature lavish design elements such as chandeliers and ornate columns, aligning architecturally with the existing structure of the White House. Leslie Greene Bowman, a member of the Committee for the Preservation of the White House and veteran of service under four administrations, expressed hope that the project would honor the building's rich legacy as a democratic institution.
In preparation for the renovations, offices within the East Wing, including that of the First Lady, will be temporarily relocated to accommodate construction. Trump, who has previously expressed his aspiration for a ballroom at official functions, reiterated his vision at a recent event, stating, "No president knew how to build a ballroom. I could take this one, drop it right down there, and it would be beautiful."
This initiative follows the president's notorious 2016 offer of $100 million for a similar ballroom during Barack Obama’s term, which was dismissed by the then-Press Secretary as inappropriate. The upcoming construction represents another chapter in Trump's ongoing renovations to the White House, which has already seen changes like new flagpoles and decor updates in the Oval Office.
