Architect Shalom Baranes points at a rendering on a board during a National Capitol Planning Commission meeting discussing the White House ballroom project on Jan. 8, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Allison Robbert)
Scharf argued during the meeting that the White House needed a large, elegant space for major functions. He said that when the president hosts distinguished guests like King Charles III of Great Britain, "more likely than not, he will be hosted in a tent on the South Lawn with porta-potties."
In December, the National Trust for Historic Preservation sued to halt construction of the ballroom, accusing the Trump administration of skipping mandatory reviews and failing to seek congressional approval before demolishing the East Wing.
Carol Quillen, president and CEO of the Trust, said that Thursday's presentation by the White House was a "good and necessary first step," while urging the administration to comply with all legally required review and approval processes before commencing construction.
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Construction of the ballroom at the White House continued on Dec. 17. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
In addition to the planned ballroom, officials say the project will also streamline visitor access to the White House and involve improvements across the street at Lafayette Park.
Phil Mendelson, a Democrat on the commission and chairman of the D.C. Council, asked if the ballroom's size and location were solidified, saying that the planned ceiling height of 38 to 40 feet would be "overwhelming" for the existing building.
Baranes replied that "anything’s possible," but noted the plans had already been thoroughly reviewed.
Mendelson also asked why the idea wasn't presented to the commission before the East Wing was demolished in October.
In response, Fisher said that some aspects of the project were of a "top secret nature" and had to be handled accordingly.
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The White House is seen in Washington, D.C., as officials defend the demolition of the East Wing and outline plans for President Donald Trump’s privately funded $400 million ballroom. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)
The White House announced in July that a 90,000-square-foot space would be built at a then-estimated cost of $200 million. Trump has said the project is being privately funded.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Michael Sinkewicz is a writer for Fox News Digital. Story tips can be sent to michael.sinkewicz@fox.com
https://www.foxnews.com/politics/white-house-says-east-wing-demolition-necessary-due-structural-issues