President Donald Trump recently embarked on an ambitious renovation of the White House, a project that has stirred up considerable public attention. In a conversation with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, President Trump confirmed the $250 million initiative, which includes the demolition of the East Wing, originally constructed in 1942. The East Wing was known for housing the First Lady's office and the visitor center, but President Trump described it as "not particularly nice" and opted to replace it with a grand ballroom inspired by his Mar-a-Lago resort.
The President explained the decision to tear down the East Wing was made after "a tremendous amount of study" with top architects. The new ballroom is just one element of the comprehensive changes made across the White House grounds. One notable alteration is the transformation of the Rose Garden into the Rose Garden Club, featuring yellow and white umbrellas and all-white seating arrangements, over the previous grass and floral setup. The President hosted Republican senators at this venue and posthumously awarded Charlie Kirk the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
The Oval Office has also seen significant changes, with reports from the Daily Mail detailing the replacement of the dark blue carpet with a new beige and orange palette. Additionally, the office's traditional red, white, and blue floor seal has been substituted with an all-gold design, complemented by a ceiling seal featuring a golden eagle.
Further modifications include the installation of nearly a dozen portraits of former presidents, framed with thick gold trim, in the gallery wall. The self-portrait of President Trump now replaces President Obama's, capturing a moment after Trump survived an assassination attempt in July 2024.
The Cabinet Room didn't escape the golden touch, with brown curtains giving way to gold drapes and the addition of military branch flags. Despite these extensive changes, President Trump has maintained that the renovations respect the historic significance of the White House, stating, "We don't touch the White House."
The President's unique style is evident throughout these updates, reflecting an aesthetic similar to Mar-a-Lago. Critics, including former Biden official Neera Tanden, have expressed concern over potential political fallout from the demolition of the East Wing. Conversely, Trump has cited "incredible reviews" from architects and visitors as validation for his project. The updated spaces have also introduced a new culinary experience for guests, with menus featuring cheeseburgers, fries, Diet Coke, and chocolates.
As the most significant transformation of the White House since his return to office, President Trump's renovations underscore his personal vision and legacy. The East Wing teardown, in particular, marks a shift in the functional use of the White House, designating the new ballroom for state events and celebrations. Trump reiterates his stance that the project enhances the White House while preserving its heritage.
