Trump replaces architect over White House ballroom size dispute

President Donald Trump hired Shalom Baranes Associates to replace architect James McCrery on the White House ballroom project after clashing over the planned 90,000-square-foot addition, which would nearly double the size of the 55,000-square-foot presidential residence.cnn+2

McCrery, who specializes in designing Catholic churches, had warned Trump that the $300 million ballroom risked violating a fundamental architectural principle by overshadowing the main structure it was meant to complement.thedailybeast+1

The White House will submit design plans to the National Capital Planning Commission later this month, though construction is already underway following the controversial October demolition of the East Wing without prior commission approval.cnn+1

President Donald Trump has hired a new architect to lead his $300 million White House ballroom project, replacing James McCrery, who raised concerns that the massive addition would dwarf the existing presidential residence. The White House announced Thursday that Washington-based Shalom Baranes Associates will take over the design, with McCrery remaining in a consulting role.cnn+3

The leadership change follows weeks of disagreements between Trump and McCrery over the scale of the 90,000-square-foot ballroom, which would be nearly double the size of the White House's 55,000-square-foot main residence. McCrery, whose firm specializes in designing Catholic churches, had warned Trump that the expansion risked violating a fundamental architectural principle: an addition should not overshadow the primary structure it complements.thedailybeast+3

"As we begin to transition into the next stage of development on the White House Ballroom, the Administration is excited to share that the highly talented Shalom Baranes has joined the team of experts to carry out President Trump's vision," White House spokesperson Davis Ingle said in a statement. White House officials characterized the change as "passing of the baton" rather than a replacement, though multiple sources confirmed tensions between Trump and McCrery over the project's dimensions.foxnews+3

Growing Project Faces Mounting Criticism

The ballroom's scope has expanded since Trump first announced the project in July. Initial plans called for a $200 million structure with 650-person capacity, but the cost has now risen to $300 million with space for 999 guests. Construction began in October when the East Wing was demolished without prior approval from the National Capital Planning Commission, drawing sharp criticism from preservation groups.usatoday+5

Senator Richard Blumenthal introduced legislation Thursday requiring commission approval before any historic federal building demolition. "The No Palaces Act prevents future presidents from recklessly destroying historic sites like the East Wing without approval from the independent National Capital Planning Commission or consideration from Congress," Blumenthal said.blumenthal.senate+2

New Architect Brings Federal Experience

Shalom Baranes Associates has extensive experience with federal projects in Washington, including the modernization of the General Services Administration's national headquarters, the Treasury Building, and Pentagon renovation work. The firm has received awards for historic preservation, an ironic credential given the controversy over the East Wing's demolition.cnn+4

Trump has stated the ballroom will be privately funded through donations, though the White House has not disclosed contributor names. The commission is expected to review plans later this month, but under current law, the White House can proceed even if the panel objects.nbcnews+5

Sources (38)