Why Trump’s White House Ballroom Got a New Architect

President Donald Trump has formally replaced architect James McCrery with Shalom Baranes to lead the massive White House ballroom project, a $300 million undertaking that has already drawn national attention.

The decision follows months of tension between Trump and McCrery, as the original architect struggled with deadlines and the rapidly expanding scope of the White House ballroom design.

According to officials, Trump sought a more experienced architect capable of handling a project of this scale, making Shalom Baranes, a veteran known for major federal buildings in Washington, the new lead on the ballroom project.

Construction on the White House ballroom has continued at an unusually fast pace, prompting criticism over oversight, transparency, and the demolition of parts of the East Wing before full federal review.

Supporters argue that Trump’s decision to appoint Shalom Baranes strengthens the ballroom project, while critics say the rush raises concerns about planning standards.

The White House ballroom is designed to accommodate nearly 1,000 guests and represents one of the most significant structural additions to the White House in decades.

With Trump pushing to complete the ballroom project before the end of his term, all eyes remain on how Shalom Baranes will navigate the demanding timeline and public scrutiny surrounding the White House ballroom.