Demolition of the White House East Wing is underway, with construction equipment tearing into the historic structure’s facade. The images of heavy machinery dismantling it has drawn criticism.
In July, Trump said the ballroom construction “won’t interfere with the current building” and would be “near it but not touching it.” But he reversed course and the entire East Wing is being demolished. “In order to do it properly, we had to take down the existing structure,” Trump said during a press briefing this week.
The East Wing houses the Office of the First Lady Melania Trump, the White House Military Office, the visitors’ office, legislative affairs workspaces, and a calligrapher’s office.
The project’s estimated cost has increased. Initially announced at $200 million in July, it rose to $250 million in September, and Trump stated on October 22 that it is now at about $300 million.
Not Your Average Ballroom
The new ballroom will dominate the White House campus as it will be double the size of the whole building, which is 55,000 square feet, according to the New York Times.
Amid backlash, the White House published a list of presidents that have spearheaded renovating, expanding or modernizing the White House.
The ballroom will accommodate 999 guests according to Trump’s latest statements, up from the initially announced 650-person capacity.
Since a couple crashed the Obamas’ first state dinner, Faith Keiser, founder of EventNation/GotchaFinder, said White House staffers have wished for a larger ballroom. However, she points out that at 90,000 square feet, this ballroom is three times the size of what is considered a “big” ballroom by event standards. “Even with large crowds, this space may appear empty,” said Keiser.
Trump has been a longtime critic of the temporary tents often erected for events on the South Lawn, calling such setups unworthy of diplomatic occasions. He says the ballroom will transform how the U.S. hosts state function and ceremonial gatherings.
Another iconic, historic building that hosts events in Washington, D.C. is where the North Atlantic Treaty was signed in 1949, the Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium. Susan Lacz, president and CEO of Ridgewells Catering, that has exclusive management of this event venue is a proponent of the new White House ballroom. “As the capital of the free world, we should be able to host grand events at the White House. At present, for groups of more than 200, tents have to be built which is a huge expense and not that glamorous.”
Trump Says The Ballroom Will Be Funded Privately
The new ballroom will be paid through private funding from Trump and other private donors, according to a statement from the White House.
The design, led by Washington D.C.–based McCrery Architects, leans heavily into Trump’s signature aesthetic. Architectural renderings showcase neoclassical opulence: Corinthian columns with gilded details, golden chandeliers, coffered ceilings, and arched windows on three sides overlooking the White House grounds.
The White House is projecting completion “well before” the end of Trump’s current term in January 2029, an aggressive timeline for a project of this magnitude.
Event Planners React
Monique Rochard-Marine, head of global commercial services at Cordis,has led high-profile summits and executive gatherings for over two decades. Although she is perplexed by the massive size of the new ballroom, her hope is that it combines the grandeur of the White House with modern functionality.
“For a space of this scale and visibility, cutting-edge AV, lighting, and acoustics are essential to meet the needs of high-profile events, both now and decades from now,” said Rochard-Marine.
Sustainability is another sticking point. “Large federal projects can set the tone for industry standards. A build like this at one of the most recognized addresses in the world is an opportunity to lead by example,” said Rochard-Marine. “Incorporating energy efficiency, LEED-level construction, and environmentally responsible materials isn’t just about optics, it’s about reducing long-term operating costs and ensuring the space is relevant for future administrations.”
