White House East Wing Demolition Begins for New Ballroom Project
WASHINGTON – Demolition work commenced monday, October 20, 2025, on a portion of the East Wing of the White House to clear space for a planned new ballroom, according to the Associated Press. The project, championed by former President Donald Trump, aims to create a grand reception space currently lacking in the historic building.
The ambitious undertaking, estimated to cost over $250 million (approximately 2.6 billion Norwegian kroner), has been a stated priority for Trump, who has repeatedly expressed dissatisfaction with the White House’s existing facilities for formal events. He has pledged to personally fund the project alongside private donors.The new ballroom is envisioned to accommodate 999 guests adn offer views of the Washington Monument, intended for use in hosting foreign heads of state and other large-scale receptions.
Trump previously asserted that the expansion would not impact the East wing’s overall structure. The planned ballroom is intended to address what Trump has described as a need for a more extraordinary venue for formal occasions.