- Project Overview
Announcement & Specifications: On August 2, 2025, Al Jazeera reported President Trump’s plan to build a $200 million, 90,000-square-foot ballroom adjacent to the East Wing of the White House, with seating for approximately 650 guests .
Timeline: Construction is scheduled to begin in September 2025, aiming for completion well before the end of Trump’s term in January 2029 .
Funding & Design: The project will be funded privately by Trump and other donors. Design will be handled by McCrery Architects, construction by Clark Construction, and engineering by AECOM .
Trigger for Suspension of Tours: The announced renovations have led to the indefinite suspension of public White House tours—citing extensive construction and security concerns .
- Historical Context of White House Changes
Early Foundations (1792–1829): Designed by James Hoban and constructed with forced labor, the White House was rebuilt after the 1814 fire. Later additions included the South Portico (1824) and North Portico (1829) .
19th Century Upgrades: Water, gas lighting, furnishings were introduced gradually; electricity was added in 1891 under President Harrison .
Theodore Roosevelt (1902): Revamped interior and created the West Wing, moving presidential offices out of the residence. He also expanded the State Dining Room .
Taft (1909): Further expanded the West Wing and built the first Oval Office .
Harry S. Truman (1945–1953): Undertook a structural overhaul—gutting most of the interior and rebuilding with steel and concrete. He also added the Truman Balcony .
Kennedy (1960s): Conducted a historically focused restoration with Jacqueline Kennedy emphasizing period furnishings .
Nixon (1969): Added modern amenities, including a bowling alley and upgraded the Situation Room .
Clinton & Bush Eras: Clinton enhanced security and internet infrastructure; Bush restored historical rooms like the Lincoln Bedroom and upgraded the press briefing room .
Obama: Introduced wi-fi throughout the White House and West Wing, and adapted the tennis court for basketball use .
Cost of Past Renovations: Cumulative renovations in “current dollar terms” total approximately $250 million, highlighting the significance of Trump’s ballroom project in scale and ambition .
