On September 12, 2025, President Donald Trump announced plans for a new White House ballroom that will significantly exceed initial designs, expanding from a capacity of 650 to 900 people. This project, currently underway and estimated to cost approximately $200 million, marks the most substantial alteration to the White House’s exterior since the Roosevelt administration’s East Wing expansion in 1942. Trump highlighted the ballroom’s importance as a legacy project intended to enhance the White House’s ability to host large diplomatic events, replacing the temporary tents that have historically been used for such occasions.
The ballroom will occupy a 90,000-square-foot space at the East Wing, which has previously served as office space for the First Lady and her staff. During construction, these offices will be temporarily relocated to facilitate the renovation of the East Wing, with White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasizing that the existing structure will remain intact. Trump articulated his vision for the project during a phone interview with NBC News, reflecting on its historical significance and stating that the construction is a long-awaited endeavor that has been in discussions for about 150 years.
As a former real estate developer, Trump has taken a hands-on approach to the project, selecting McCrery Architects as the lead design firm, with Clark Construction and AECOM also involved. The enhanced capacity aims to address limitations in the White House’s event space, especially since the East Room can only accommodate about 200 guests. Trump reassured the public that the ballroom would respect the historical integrity of the White House, noting it will be constructed nearby but not attached to the main building.
Trump received support for the project from his administration officials, including Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, who praised the President’s visionary approach to building and design. Leavitt, during a press briefing, showcased images of the planned ballroom, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to creating a space that reflects both modern needs and the historical essence of the White House.
Reactions to the ballroom project have been generally positive among supporters who emphasize its potential to modernize the White House’s capabilities for hosting significant events. Jim McCrery, CEO of McCrery Architects, acknowledged the challenges modern presidents face in accommodating major gatherings, attributing these issues to the White House’s historical design, which has remained largely unchanged since President Harry Truman’s administration. McCrery conveyed his honor in being chosen for this renovation, ensuring that it aligns with the elegance and historical significance of the structure.
With construction already initiated, the ballroom project is on a timeline aiming for completion by early 2029. This four-year plan not only signifies a major renovation in the ongoing evolution of the White House but also represents a commitment to future administrations, promising a venue designed to host the nation’s most important events in a manner befitting its historical stature.
