The White House has announced plans to construct a $200 million ballroom on the executive mansion’s grounds, fulfilling a long-held ambition of President Donald Trump.
The 8,360-square-metre structure – expected to be located at least partially within the East Wing – will be the most significant alteration to the White House since President Harry S. Truman’s full-scale renovation, completed in 1952.
According to White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, funding for the project will come from private donations, including a personal contribution from Trump and other as-yet-unnamed donors. Construction is set to begin in September.
Renderings of the interior show a lavish gold-and-white design closely modelled on the Louis XIV-style ballroom at Mar-a-Lago, Trump’s private estate in Palm Beach, Florida.
The Republican president has made no secret of his desire to leave a lasting mark on the presidential residence.
Originally completed in 1800, the White House was partially rebuilt following its burning by British forces during the War of 1812.
