Trump’s White House Ballroom: A Closer Look at the Final Plans
President Trump’s vision for a revamped East Wing ballroom at the White House is taking shape, with final plans submitted to the National Capital Planning Commission. A decision is expected at a March 5th meeting, where a board with Trump allies is anticipated to approve the project. The latest designs reveal both refinements and continued adherence to the ambitious scale initially proposed.
From Two Pediments to One
Early renderings by architect Shalom Baranes featured triangular pediments above both the east and south porticoes. The current plan eliminates the pediment on the south portico, a notable change from previous iterations. But, the pediment on the east portico remains and its height—approximately four feet taller than the White House’s roofline—continues to draw criticism from those who believe it will visually overwhelm the existing structure.
Window and Doorway Adjustments
Subtle alterations have been made to the ballroom’s exterior. The number of arched windows facing west on the ballroom level has increased from eight to nine. The first-floor windows have been redesigned, incorporating more doorways that will lead to a new East Wing garden.
A New Garden Takes Root
The plans include the first detailed renderings of the garden that will replace the Jacqueline Kennedy Garden, which was demolished along with the old East Wing. Renderings depict a grand staircase connecting the new East Colonnade to the garden, with stone-paved paths leading to the first floor of the new East Wing. The new garden is planned to be larger than its predecessor, incorporating trees replanted from the original garden and the return of its fountain.
South Lawn Pathway Alterations
To accommodate the substantial size of the proposed East Wing, the main pathway around the South Lawn will no longer be symmetrical, as shown in the renderings. This alteration reflects the project’s significant impact on the White House grounds.
Scale Remains a Key Feature
The final designs maintain the overall footprint established in earlier plans, signaling that President Trump has dismissed calls for a reduction in the building’s size. Architects have suggested a “modest one-story addition” to the West Colonnade to “restore a sense of symmetry to the original central pavilion,” but the core scale of the project remains unchanged.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the architect for the White House ballroom project?
Shalom Baranes is the architect hired by President Trump for the project.
When will the National Capital Planning Commission review the plans?
The plans will be reviewed at a meeting on March 5th.
What happened to the Jacqueline Kennedy Garden?
The Jacqueline Kennedy Garden was demolished with the old East Wing.
Pro Tip: Retain an eye on the National Capital Planning Commission’s website for updates on the project’s approval status and any potential public hearings.
What are your thoughts on the proposed changes to the White House? Share your opinions in the comments below!
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