Trump recruits a new architect to redesign ballroom

President Trump has brought a new architect on board to assist with the design of the White House ballroom, while retaining the current architect, who has previously had some disagreements with the president, sources told CBS News.

The new firm, Shalom Baranes Associates, is based in Washington, D.C. White House officials explained that the addition of the new architect comes as the project enters a critical stage, requiring specialized expertise. "Shalom is a highly respected architect whose work has influenced the architectural landscape of Washington, D.C., for decades. His expertise will be invaluable to completing this project," stated White House spokesperson Davis Ingle.

Ingle also suggested that the renovated ballroom could become "the most remarkable addition to the White House since the Oval Office." The current architect, James McCrery, will continue in a consulting capacity. Sources noted that McCrery and President Trump have had differences regarding the ballrooms size and how it integrates with the main White House structure.

The White House intends to submit the ballroom construction plans to the National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC) this month, according to Will Scharf, NCPC chairman. Scharf indicated that the plans would proceed through the commissions standard review process. He emphasized the commissions role in providing guidance but not overseeing site preparation or demolition.

Meanwhile, Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut introduced legislation requiring NCPC approval before any demolition and mandating congressional consent for privately-funded White House construction projects. The proposed bill, dubbed the No Palaces Act, aims to safeguard historic structures from potential alterations without oversight.

President Trump commented that the ballroom project is progressing well, though first lady Melania Trump has expressed discomfort with the ongoing construction noise. "She hears pile drivers day and night. Darling, could you turn off the pile drivers? Sorry, darling. Thats progress," Trump said, adding optimism that the finished ballroom will be "the finest ever built."

Author: Noah Whitman