Former President Donald Trump has unveiled the initial public glimpse of a massive $300 million ballroom project planned for the White House, set to replace the demolished East Wing. The controversial development has sparked significant debate over its impact on the historic residence.
First Look at Lavish Ballroom Design
In a recent post on Truth Social, Trump shared what he described as the 'first rendering shown to the Public' of the exterior design. The artist's impression depicts a 22,000 square foot extension with an architectural style intended to mirror the existing White House, featuring a portico with eight columns and a staircase leading to a road opposite the US Treasury.
Trump emphasised in his statement: 'Being an identical height and scale, it is totally in keeping with our historic White House.' He added optimistically: 'This space will serve our Country well for, hopefully, Centuries into the future!'
Construction and Historical Controversy
The project has involved the demolition of the East Wing, traditionally housing the offices of the US First Lady, which began in October last year without the legally required public review process. Preservation groups, including the US National Trust for Historic Preservation, have expressed alarm, particularly as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary.
Dr Carol Quillen, president of the trust, highlighted concerns in a letter: 'We urge you to take into account the deep reverence that all Americans hold for this iconic place, and to initiate the review process that can ensure the preservation of the historic White House for future generations.'
Architectural Plans and Scale
Architect Shalom Baranes revealed updated plans in January, following a series of confusing alterations. The scale of the new extension may require an extra storey to be added to the West Wing to 'restore a sense of symmetry around the original central pavilion'. Once completed, the ballroom is expected to accommodate up to 1,000 seated guests.
Images released last summer showcased a lavish interior design, described as very Trumpian, with cream paint and gilded chandeliers. The development has drawn criticism for its cost and the removal of historic elements, including a garden named after Jackie Kennedy.
The unveiling comes amid ongoing debates about the balance between modernisation and preservation at one of America's most iconic landmarks.
