Overview

• The Kennedy-era turf was fully removed in July and replaced by stone pavers by early August 2025.
• New features include flag-shaped drainage grates along the sides and presidential seals embedded at each corner.
• The National Park Service oversaw the work with funding from the Trust for the National Mall, modeling the design on Trump’s Mar-a-Lago patio.
• Social media critics blasted the overhaul, calling the new patio “gross,” “appalling” and “embarrassing.”
• The garden remains closed pending a formal reopening, and a new White House ballroom project is set to begin later this year.