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New architect takes over White House ballroom project
The White House has appointed Shalom Baranes Associates to lead construction of a large ballroom after disagreements arose with the previous architect over the project's scale, officials confirmed.
Background and controversy
President Donald Trump's plan to add a 90,000-square-foot ballroom-nearly double the size of the White House residence-has drawn criticism from conservationists and lawmakers. The East Wing was demolished in October to make space for the $20 million-plus addition, which Trump claims is privately funded.
The initial design called for a 500-person capacity, but the blueprint later expanded to accommodate 1,350 guests. Former architect James McCrery reportedly expressed concerns that the ornate structure would dwarf the rest of the White House, which spans 55,000 square feet for the residence and 40,000 square feet for the West Wing.
Architectural transition
McCrery will remain involved as a consultant, though it remains unclear whether he left voluntarily. A source told The Washington Post that McCrery wanted to stay on the team to prevent an "inferior" design. The BBC has reached out to McCrery for comment but has not received a response.
White House spokesman Davis Ingle praised the new architect, calling Shalom Baranes a "great asset" whose work has shaped Washington's skyline for decades. Ingle added that the ballroom would be the "greatest addition to the White House since the Oval Office."
Regulatory hurdles and opposition
The National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC) must approve the project before construction begins. Meanwhile, critics have questioned the oversight of the demolition and expansion.
Senator Richard Blumenthal introduced legislation this week, the No Palaces Act, to require NCPC or congressional approval before historic federal buildings can be torn down. Blumenthal argued the bill would prevent presidents from "recklessly destroying" landmarks like the East Wing.
Next steps
The White House stated that additional teams will be hired as construction progresses. The project's timeline and final design remain subject to regulatory review.
