See Every Era of the White House Rose Garden, Including the Famed Kennedy Redesign & the Trumps’ Concrete Overhaul

The White House Rose Garden has undergone significant transformations over the years, from its colonial garden origins in the early 1900s to the Kennedy-era redesign and the recent 2025 concrete renovation by the Trumps. This iconic garden has been a place of tranquillity and historical significance, where presidents have spent time with their families, hosted important meetings with world leaders, and even witnessed marriage ceremonies. The evolution of the White House Rose Garden reflects the changing tastes and styles of the first families who have called the White House home.

Initially, the White House grounds lacked the distinct areas we see today, with stables occupying the space where the Rose Garden now stands. In the mid-1850s, a conservatory and greenhouses were added, but it wasn’t until First Lady Edith Roosevelt’s colonial-style West Garden that the area began to take shape. Subsequently, First Lady Ellen Wilson played a vital role in establishing what we now know as the White House Rose Garden, with a symmetrical design centred around roses.

Throughout the years, minor alterations were made to the garden under different administrations, with President Dwight D. Eisenhower simplifying the layout and President John F. Kennedy spearheading a significant redesign in the 1960s. Working with garden designer Rachel “Bunny” Mellon, the Kennedys transformed the Rose Garden into a space that could host formal events while maintaining its intimate charm for the first family. This design remained largely unchanged for decades until First Lady Melania Trump’s controversial renovation in 2020.

Melania Trump’s renovation made headlines for its drastic changes, including the removal of trees and the addition of a limestone walkway. Subsequently, in 2025, the Trumps further altered the garden by replacing the central lawn with concrete pavers, marking a departure from the traditional lush greenery associated with the Rose Garden. The evolution of the White House Rose Garden reflects not only design trends but also the personal tastes and visions of the first families who have left their mark on this historic space.

The significance of the White House Rose Garden extends beyond its aesthetics; it serves as a symbol of the presidency and a backdrop for key historical events. From casual moments with pets to high-level diplomatic meetings, the garden has witnessed a wide range of activities throughout its existence. While the recent renovations may have sparked debate and controversy, they also represent a continuation of the garden’s evolution under new leadership.

As the Trumps continue to make their mark on the White House Rose Garden, it will be interesting to see how future administrations choose to preserve and adapt this iconic space. The rich history and diverse design elements of the garden provide a glimpse into the changing landscape of presidential aesthetics and the enduring legacy of the White House grounds. The White House Rose Garden stands as a testament to the evolving nature of American politics and the intersection of tradition and modernity in the heart of Washington, D.C.