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Trump's $300M Ballroom Plans Spark Preservation Concerns

12/5/2025

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Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump is planning a new ballroom and extensive White House renovations.
Shalom Baranes Associates is hired as architect for the ballroom, which is expected to cost about $300 million and accommodate up to 999 people.
The East Wing has been demolished to clear space for the ballroom, drawing preservationists' concerns.
Trump's vision aims to leave a lasting legacy, with critics noting disregard for preservation norms.

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Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump is planning a new ballroom and extensive White House renovations.
Shalom Baranes Associates is hired as architect for the ballroom, which is expected to cost about $300 million and accommodate up to 999 people.
The East Wing has been demolished to clear space for the ballroom, drawing preservationists' concerns.
Trump's vision aims to leave a lasting legacy, with critics noting disregard for preservation norms.