Aecom, Clark attached to US$200m White House ballroom build

A render of the new White House ballroom, which is set for a construction start in September. Image: White House

The project will add a 90,000 sq ft event space to the presidential complex, increasing the White House’s seated event capacity from 200 to 650. The ballroom is expected to eliminate the need for large outdoor tents currently used for major events, which are typically erected over 100 yards from the main entrance.

The administration said the addition will allow future presidents to host visiting heads of state and ceremonial events in a secure, permanent space without disrupting the White House’s historic appearance.

McCrery Architects, based in Washington, D.C., will lead the design, which is intended to reflect the classical architecture of the current Executive Residence.

The ballroom will be built on the site of the current East Wing, portions of which will be renovated and demolished. Originally constructed in 1902 and later modified during World War II, the East Wing currently houses offices for the First Lady and White House social staff, which will be temporarily relocated during construction.

Funding for the project is said to come entirely from private donations, including contributions from President Donald Trump.

The ballroom will be the largest structural addition to the White House in more than 75 years and will nearly double the floor area of the 55,000 sq ft Executive Residence.

Construction is expected to finish before the end of Trump’s term in early 2029.

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