Overview
- The White House said Shalom Baranes’ firm will lead the project, with previous architect James McCrery staying on as an adviser.
- The Washington Post reported McCrery had urged a smaller scale to avoid a ballroom that would visually overshadow the residence.
- President Trump now touts capacity of about 1,000 guests and an estimated $300 million cost, up from summer concepts of roughly 650 guests and $200 million.
- The administration has not submitted plans to the National Capital Planning Commission, which is chaired by senior Trump aide Will Scharf.
- The East Wing was demolished in October to clear the site, and preservation groups and opposition figures criticize the plan and its ornate design, which Trump says will be funded with private donations.