The White House is set to break ground in September 2025 on a significant addition: a 90,000-square-foot New State Ballroom designed to host official events, state dinners, and large ceremonial gatherings for up to 650 seated guests.
The project, announced by White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt, aims to provide a dedicated space that aligns with the classical architectural style of the White House, preserving its historic aesthetic.
Leavitt emphasized that construction is expected to conclude well before the end of President Donald Trump’s term, ensuring the facility is ready to serve future administrations and maintain the White House’s role as a symbol of national pride.
Temporary Pause on New Tour Bookings
To accommodate the construction, new bookings for public tours of the White House have been paused, though no existing tours have been canceled, according to Nicholas Clemens, communications director for the first lady.
A collaborative team, including White House staff, the U.S. Secret Service, the National Park Service, and Executive Residence personnel, is working to balance public access with construction demands.
“The president and first lady remain committed to continuing the tradition of public access to the People’s House in the present and for the future,” Clemens told Fox News Digital.
Historically, the White House tour route has adapted across presidencies, previously including iconic spaces like the Vermeil Room, Library, China Room, Blue Room, Red Room, Green Room, and State Dining Room, accessible via the East Wing and East Colonnade.
Balancing Public Access and Historic Expansion
The pause on new tour bookings reflects a proactive approach to managing the logistical challenges of a major construction project while upholding the White House’s role as an accessible public landmark.
The addition of the State Ballroom responds to the growing need for a versatile venue capable of hosting large-scale events, which have strained existing spaces like the State Dining Room, limited to about 130 guests.
The project, funded through federal appropriations, has drawn attention for its scale but is designed to integrate seamlessly with the White House’s neoclassical design, ensuring continuity with its historic character.
Clemens noted that updates on tour adjustments and the ballroom’s progress will be shared soon, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to transparency and public engagement during this transformative phase.
