The White House has recently unveiled plans for a significant addition to its premises, with a grand new ballroom set to adorn the esteemed East Wing. The announcement of this lavish expansion was made by White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt, noting that the new structure is poised to bring a modern touch to the historical building. The price tag for this opulent endeavor? A staggering $200 million.
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The elaborate new ballroom is designed to be a sight to behold, boasting intricate details such as gold-encrusted chandeliers, ornate coffered ceilings, and grand Greek columns. The floor space is projected to be a sprawling 90,000 square feet, providing ample room for up to 650 guests at a time. This grand addition will serve as the primary venue for hosting high-profile events, surpassing the limitations of the current East Room which can only accommodate around 200 guests.
According to the White House’s official press release, the absence of a dedicated ballroom has led to the installation of unsightly tents outside for overflow guests during events. The new White House Ballroom aims to rectify this issue by offering a luxurious and spacious setting that aligns with the architectural heritage of the existing White House structure. The construction of this grand ballroom is slated to commence in September, signalling the beginning of a new chapter for the iconic building.
In preparation for the construction of the ballroom, the current East Wing, which traditionally houses the first lady’s office and staff, will need to be vacated temporarily. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt clarified that the intent is not to replace the entire East Wing but rather to enhance and modernize its facilities. The funding for this ambitious project is coming from private donors, including President Donald Trump himself, amid plans to ensure the ballroom is open before the end of his presidential term.
The White House Ballroom is envisioned as a seamless extension of the existing architectural style of the White House, with intricate designs and opulent features that are set to elevate the grandeur of the historical building. Renderings of the ballroom showcase a magnificent space adorned with gold accents, tall arched windows, and Corinthian columns, promising a truly majestic setting for a variety of events. The construction is being overseen by McCrery Architects, under the guidance of CEO Jim McCrery.
As construction progresses, updates on the project will be shared on the White House’s official platform to keep the public informed about this significant development. This ambitious addition to the White House grounds comes alongside other renovations, including the controversial removal of the Rose Garden lawn, a historic feature of the premises. With a focus on preserving the heritage of the White House while enhancing its functionality, these renovations mark a new chapter in the ongoing legacy of this iconic building.