After years of talk by President Donald Trump, the White House announced that construction will begin this September on a new state ballroom in the building’s East Wing. The new ballroom will be approximately 90,000 square feet and accommodate at least 650 guests.
The White House said that for the last 150 years, staff and administrations have longed for a larger event space on the White House complex. Specifically, one that can hold more guests than currently allowed.
The statement said that due to current limitations, the White House has not been able to host any major functions without having to install a large tent outside of the main building entrance.
Who’s footing the bill?
According to press secretary Karoline Leavitt, Trump and his “Patriot donors” will pay for the entire project.
“President Trump and other donors have generously committed to donating the funds necessary to build this approximately $200 million,” Leavitt said. “I have provided some photos for all of you in the room today. This is the interior of the ballroom space. It’s quite beautiful. And then this is the exterior of the ballroom space. As you can see, it will come off the executive mansion as it sits today, and the East Wing will be modernized and renovated.”
This will be the most expensive renovation under the Trump administration. It’ll cost even more than the pave-over at the Rose Garden, the Golden Oval Office or those towering flagpoles outside.
Details on the ballroom
Officials will build the ballroom where the East Wing stands now, temporarily relocating offices, including the first lady’s.
The current East Wing space can accommodate approximately 200 guests, so the expansion will more than triple its capacity.
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The White House did not release specifics on design and style. However, Trump has been holding meetings with members of the White House Staff, the National Park Service, the White House Military Office and the United States Secret Service to discuss design features and planning.
Who is doing the work
Trump selected McCrery Architects as the lead architect. The group, located in D.C., is known for its classical architectural design.
“I am honored that President Trump has entrusted me to help bring this beautiful and necessary renovation to The People’s House, while preserving the elegance of its classical design and historical importance,” said McCrery Architects CEO Jim McCrery.
Clark Construction will head the construction team, and AECOM will lead engineering, according to the White House.
Officials expect the project to begin in September and wrap up before the end of Trump’s term.
