Overview
Since returning to office, President Donald Trump has pushed forward a string of high profile design changes across the White House and other major Washington landmarks. His latest announcement involves the Trump Kennedy Center, which he says will shut down later this year for a major two year renovation.
Trump said the decision followed a yearlong review with contractors, arts professionals, and advisers. He also claimed the closure will allow renovations to be completed faster and with better results than if the venue stayed open during construction. However, details remain unclear, including what exactly will be renovated, how much it will cost, and what will happen to scheduled performances.
Trump Kennedy Center to Close for Two Years
Trump revealed on Truth Social that the Trump Kennedy Center will temporarily close for renovations. The renovation is expected to take two years.
So far, there is no official breakdown of the construction plan. The cost estimate has also not been released. It is also unknown whether performances will be canceled, moved, or rescheduled.
“Arc de Trump” Monument Planned for America’s 250th Anniversary
Another major project is a new monument called the “Arc de Trump.” Trump unveiled the plan in October, saying it will honor the nation’s 250th anniversary next year.
Trump described being shown three models of the arch, small, medium, and large. He said he prefers the biggest option. If that design is selected, the arch could reach 250 feet tall. That would make it taller than the Lincoln Memorial and close in height to the U.S. Capitol dome.
The monument is designed as a near replica of Paris’s Arc de Triomphe. It would sit near Memorial Bridge, welcoming visitors traveling from Arlington National Cemetery into Washington.
The Oval Office Gets a Gold Heavy Redesign
Inside the Oval Office, Trump has added gold accents throughout the room. The gilded look includes decorative trim along the ceiling, gold framing around doorways, and even gold detailing on cherubs inside the frames.
Trump previously said the Oval Office needed more energy and life. He also claimed gold paint cannot match real gold. A White House spokesperson said the materials used are high quality. They also stated Trump paid for the gold details himself, though the total cost has not been shared.
White House “Presidential Walk of Fame”
Outside the Oval Office, the administration introduced a “Presidential Walk of Fame.” It features portraits of former presidents along the West Wing colonnade.
One detail that drew attention was former President Joe Biden’s portrait. Instead of a traditional signature, it shows an autopen signature. The walkway also includes large mirrors in gold frames, continuing the luxury theme.
Lincoln Bathroom Renovation
Trump also said he renovated the Lincoln bathroom. He claimed the previous design, added in the 1940s, used green Art Deco tile that did not fit the Lincoln era.
According to Trump, the bathroom now features polished black and white statuary marble. No official renovation cost has been provided.
A New White House Ballroom Under Construction
One of the biggest projects underway is a massive White House ballroom. The planned ballroom is expected to cover 90,000 square feet and hold about 650 seated guests.
The White House currently does not have a formal ballroom, and officials say major events often require large outdoor tents. The new ballroom will replace the East Wing. Construction has started, and the cost is estimated at over $200 million. Trump and private donors are expected to finance it.
New Flagpoles and Rose Garden Changes
Ahead of Independence Day, Trump also funded the installation of two 88 foot flagpoles on the White House grounds. Each flagpole reportedly cost about $50,000.
In addition, Trump directed the placement of stone pavers in the Rose Garden lawn. The change is meant to make the space more suitable for press events and ceremonies.
