Trump unveils $200m White House ballroom plan, inspired by Mar-a-Lago

US President Donald Trump plans to build a grand ballroom on the White House grounds as part of a sweeping makeover of the presidential complex, his spokesperson confirmed on Thursday.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said the estimated $200 million cost will be covered by Trump himself and unnamed private donors.

Long-awaited event space to seat 650 guests

“For 150 years, presidents, administrations and White House staff have longed for a large event space on the White House complex,” Leavitt said at a press briefing.

The planned ballroom will have seating for up to 650 people and is expected to serve as a formal venue for hosting world leaders and major events—functions that currently require temporary tents on the lawn.

Construction will begin in September and is expected to finish before the end of Trump’s second term, she added.

East Wing to be replaced by new structure

The new ballroom will reportedly replace the East Wing, which traditionally houses the offices of the First Lady. A model released by officials shows a white, columned facade, echoing the architecture of the main White House building.

Inspired by Mar-a-Lago, Florida

Trump’s luxury Florida estate, Mar-a-Lago, is serving as the design inspiration. The former real estate mogul has long expressed interest in creating a ballroom that reflects his signature style.

Past changes already reflect that aesthetic—Trump has previously:

• Paved over the Rose Garden, replacing its iconic lawn

• Added gold crown molding and gold statues in the Oval Office

• Erected large American flags outside the White House