East Wing not saved during ballroom construction for economic reasons.

The White House announced that due to structural issues, decay, and other concerns, the East Wing would be demolished to make room for a 90,000-square-foot ballroom, with officials detailing the reasons for the decision at a public meeting. Architect Shalom Baranes presented plans for the new ballroom, which will match the height of the White House, with a new visitors’ entry complex to streamline access. Some commission members raised questions about the project’s size and location, with concerns over the impact on the existing building, leading to a more formal review expected in the spring.

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