President Donald Trump’s proposed White House ballroom addition has been reimagined with significant changes, including the removal of a large triangular pediment above the southern portico. The revised design still maintains the same height as the White House at its highest point but raises concerns among outside architects and historical preservationists.
Critics argue that the project could overshadow the iconic main mansion and alter protected sightlines around the complex. Architect Bruce Redman Becker says the design is “poorly proportioned” and doesn’t comply with decades-old guidelines from the National Park Service.
The White House has defended the project’s design, stating it will be compatible with the historic mansion. However, the commission that reviewed the plans, including Trump appointees who support the project, are now moving forward with planned hearings next month.
The project is also subject to a legal challenge and questions over its financing arrangement, which some say allows taxpayers to bypass congressional approval through private donations. Despite this, Trump remains optimistic about the project’s timeline, stating it will be “on budget” and “ahead of schedule.”
Source: https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2026/02/13/trump-ballroom-new-renderings