Trump employs a new architect to redesign White House ballroom

President Donald Trump has selected a new architect for the $300-million White House ballroom, following reported disputes with the original designer, a White House spokesperson confirmed Thursday.

Reports indicate that Trump and James McCrery, an expert in classical architecture, disagreed over plans to expand the ballroom's size. The President has now turned to Shalom Baranes, an architect recognized for "defining the architectural character of Washington, D.C. for decades," according to White House spokesman Davis Ingle.

"As the White House ballroom project moves into its next phase, we are pleased to announce that the highly skilled Shalom Baranes will join our team to help realize President Trump's vision," Ingle said in a statement.

Baranes firm has previously been involved in significant projects, including modernizing the US Treasury building and renovating the Pentagon after the September 11 attacks.

Trump has already removed the entire East Wing to construct a ballroom he envisions accommodating 1,000 guests. The scale of the project has raised concerns that it may overshadow the main presidential residence, one of the world's most iconic buildings.

The administration maintains that the ballroom will be fully privately funded, and the project has not yet been submitted for public review. Sources report that Trump also questioned whether McCrerys smaller firm could meet the construction timeline. Despite this, McCrery will continue to serve as an important consultant, with his role described as "passing the baton" as the project enters its next stage.

Author’s Commentary: Transition in White House Ballroom Project

The recent replacement of James McCrery with Shalom Baranes as the lead architect for the White House ballroom marks a significant shift in the project’s direction. Reports suggest the decision was driven by disagreements over the expansion plans and concerns about meeting the construction timeline.

Baranes brings extensive experience with high-profile federal projects, including renovations to the Pentagon and modernization of the Treasury building. This choice signals the administration’s intent to proceed with a large-scale, technically demanding vision for the ballroom.

While McCrery will remain involved as a consultant, the transition underscores a prioritization of both expertise and project management capacity. The administration continues to assert that the project is privately funded, though the ambitious scale—removing the entire East Wing—has already prompted questions about the impact on the historical integrity of the presidential residence.

Overall, the change in architects reflects a pragmatic approach to realizing the project on schedule, while maintaining a focus on high-profile architectural credentials and longstanding influence in Washington, D.C.

Sources:

• Trump hires new architect for White House ballroom

Author: Lucas Grant
Lucas Grant is a sports journalist with extensive experience covering football and basketball championships. Known for factual accuracy and an engaging, dynamic writing style.