White House officials have revealed that demolishing the East Wing for President Donald Trump’s new ballroom is more economical than renovation, citing chronic structural issues, with the project now estimated at $400 million. The expansive ballroom, designed by architect Shalom Baranes, will span 22,000 square feet and accommodate 1,000 guests, featuring high ceilings and additional facilities like a commercial kitchen and office spaces.
During a National Capital Planning Commission hearing, Josh Fisher, director of the White House Office of Administration, explained that the East Wing had significant deficiencies, including water intrusion and mold contamination, which made demolition the most cost-effective long-term strategy. The wing was demolished in October to make way for the ballroom, with costs doubling from initial estimates due to expanded scope and design changes.
Architect Shalom Baranes detailed that the ballroom will have 40-foot ceilings and include two entry lobbies, a movie theater, and an office for the first lady. The new East Wing will total 89,000 square feet over two levels, matching the height of the main White House building to maintain architectural harmony. Baranes emphasized that this design aims to reduce operational stress on the historic structure.
To restore symmetry, plans are underway for an addition to the West Wing, which currently houses staff offices and the Oval Office. This expansion is intended to improve connectivity and streamline guest entrances, eliminating the need for temporary trailers used in current operations. The enhanced layout is expected to facilitate more efficient White House functions for large events.
The project is privately funded by donors, including corporations such as Comcast Corp., though specific contribution amounts are undisclosed. White House officials assert that this funding model is compliant with regulations, but it has sparked questions about transparency and potential influence from wealthy contributors.
However, the construction faces legal challenges from the National Trust for Historic Preservation, which filed a lawsuit in December arguing that the White House bypassed required reviews before demolition and failed to submit plans to the commission promptly. A judge declined to halt the project immediately, but the lawsuit highlights ongoing concerns about preserving the White House’s historical integrity.
Construction is projected to take several years, with completion targeted before Trump’s term ends in January 2029. The White House plans to submit more detailed designs next month, and the commission, chaired by Trump appointee Will Scharf, is expected to vote in early March. Activists protested outside the hearing, reflecting public division over balancing modernization with heritage conservation.
This development underscores the tension between updating presidential facilities for contemporary needs and safeguarding a national landmark, with implications for future administrations and the symbolic role of the White House in American governance.
