The iconic lawn at the White House Rose Garden has now completely disappeared as construction on the area ordered by President Donald Trump continues.
Why It Matters
Since returning to the White House, Trump has made some significant changes, including a transformation of the Oval Office. He has added gold medallions, gold vermeil figurines, gold eagles, and gilded Rococo mirrors.
There have also been reports that Trump intends to build a ballroom in the White House, similar to the one at his Florida residence, Mar-a-Lago.
What To Know
A recent image shows the continuation of renovation work at the Rose Garden, indicating that the lawn has now been completely removed.
Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images
The image, taken on July 1, shows the lawn covered with a blue tarp. It was taken shortly after reporters noticed that work had begun in the Rose Garden.
Earlier images show the process of the garden being paved over. There were images of construction crews digging up the grass, then poles and mud in the garden area. Shortly after, photos of the garden were shared, showing it covered in what appeared to be gravel. The most recent image revealed that the garden was now fully paved over.
Trump had previously said he would pave over the Rose Garden because the grass is always wet, and it’s an inconvenience for women in high heels.
The president recently oversaw the installation of two flagpoles on the front lawns of the White House, both of which measure 30.5 meters (100 feet) in height.
The Rose Garden was created in 1913 by Ellen Wilson, the wife of President Woodrow Wilson. It was redesigned in 1961 by President John F. Kennedy to serve as a space for outdoor ceremonies. It has since become a regular venue for various events, including receptions, press briefings, and other occasions.
First lady Melania Trump redesigned the garden in 2019, during her husband’s first term. The renovations drew backlash at the time and led to a petition asking for the changes to be reversed.
What People Are Saying
White House Communications Director Steven Cheung, in a statement shared by The New York Times in March: “The White House has not been given any tender, loving care in many decades, so President Trump is taking necessary steps in order to preserve and restore the greatness and glory of ‘the People’s House.'”
What Happens Next
It’s unclear when the construction on the White House Rose Garden will conclude. Plans for a ballroom at the White House have also not been revealed.
