UPDATE: President Donald Trump has just announced major expansions to the new White House ballroom, now designed to host 900 guests, a 40 percent increase from the original plan of 650 participants. Construction on this $200 million project has officially begun, with heavy machinery already on-site, marking a significant alteration to America’s most iconic residence.
This announcement comes amid a critical time for the White House, as the expansion represents the largest change to its exterior since the East Wing was added under President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1942. The ballroom aims to modernize how the White House hosts diplomatic events, eliminating the need for temporary structures on the South Lawn, which Trump has deemed undignified for welcoming foreign leaders.
Trump shared these developments during a telephone interview with NBC News on September 12, 2025, stating, “You see all the trucks? They just started construction of the new ballroom for the White House, which is something they’ve been trying to get for about 150 years.” This ambitious project is designed to serve future administrations, ensuring that the White House remains a premier venue for state functions.
The new ballroom will span 90,000 square feet and will occupy the East Wing, traditionally used for the first lady’s offices, which will be temporarily relocated during the renovation. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt reassured the public that “nothing will be torn down” during construction, emphasizing the project’s commitment to preservation.
Trump has taken personal interest in the ballroom’s design, collaborating closely with McCrery Architects, Clark Construction, and AECOM. He highlighted the ballroom’s strategic placement: “It will be near it but not touching it,” ensuring that it respects the historical integrity of the existing structure.
In a time of heightened scrutiny, the ballroom project has garnered mixed reactions. Trump stated, “We’re making it a little bigger. It will be top of the line, as good as it can get anywhere in the world.” White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles praised Trump’s vision, adding, “The President and the Trump White House are fully committed to preserving the special history of the White House while building a beautiful ballroom for future generations.”
As construction commences, the project is expected to face a four-year timeline with a targeted completion date set for early 2029. Observers are eager to see how this landmark renovation will reshape the White House’s role in hosting international events and its long-term impact on presidential legacies.
Stay tuned for further updates as this major development unfolds, marking a new chapter in the history of the White House.