Newly released architectural renderings offer the most comprehensive view yet of President Donald J. Trump’s planned White House ballroom and expanded East Wing, a signature component of his $400 million modernization initiative.

The designs, submitted to the National Capital Planning Commission in advance of a scheduled March 5 hearing, depict a roughly 90,000-square-foot structure that would sit at the same height as the historic White House residence and integrate formal event space, offices, and other facilities.

The plans have been temporarily removed from official public postings amid heightened attention and scrutiny.

The ballroom addition is intended to serve as a premier venue for high-profile gatherings, including future presidential inaugurations, according to statements from the White House and from President Trump on social media, where he described the project as “on budget and ahead of schedule.” It is financed entirely through private contributions from corporations and individual donors, with no direct taxpayer funding.

The East Wing demolition that cleared the site last October proceeded without prior formal review, prompting critics to raise questions about oversight and compliance with preservation protocols.

Administration officials have defended the project’s execution and design, emphasising efforts to safeguard historic elements and structural integrity.

A memo from the White House Office of Administration noted that care was taken to protect the White House mansion during demolition and that significant historic features were preserved for integration into the new building.

Advocates within the administration argue that the expanded facilities will enhance security, visitor experience, and the White House’s capacity to host major state functions.

Despite official support, the proposal has attracted formal challenges from preservation groups and outside observers who argue that the scale and siting of the addition could alter historic sightlines around the White House and that its private-funding model should be subject to congressional oversight.

A federal lawsuit aiming to halt the project is pending, with a judicial ruling anticipated in the coming weeks.

Meanwhile, supporters point to the project as a lasting enhancement to the presidential residence’s event capabilities, reflecting long-standing aspirations for a permanent, grand ballroom space on the grounds.