🔗 Share this article White House Commences Demolition of East Wing for Planned Banquet Hall Demolition work has started on a section of the White House's eastern section as work move forward for the creation of a planned executive banquet hall. Construction crews commenced demolition of extensive areas of a covered entryway and window structures in the eastern section earlier this week, with the construction being described as a "complete modernization" of the structure. The substantial investment ballroom addition was initially presented as being "situated close to" the existing structure without altering its architectural integrity. "It won't impact with the existing structure. It shall not. It'll be near but not connected - and demonstrates full consideration to the existing building, which I'm the strongest supporter of," was announced in a recent statement. "It's my preferred. It's my favorite place. I adore it." The building initiative was announced through online platforms, with confirmation that "ground has been broken" on the "much-needed" ballroom space. "For longer than 150 years, each chief executive has envisioned having a Grand Hall at the White House to welcome visitors for significant gatherings, State Visits, among other occasions," was written in the announcement. The undertaking is being privately funded by "many generous Patriots" according to recent comments. The Executive Mansion has functioned as the iconic dwelling of the US president for multiple generations. The East Wing was first built in 1902 and was most recently changed in 1942. From the southern aspect of the structure, witnesses could see numerous significant units of building machinery - several featuring national symbols - situated adjacent to the eastern section. The sheltered access point, which spans much of the East Wing's southern facade, appeared to be being stripped, with construction waste and metal cables clearly visible from several hundred meters away. The renovation efforts had brought a limited group of fascinated spectators who stopped to ask photographers and reporters about the ongoing work. One female, who was displaying a face covering and a sign with an critical message on it, shared her disapproval. She declined to provide her name. "I disapprove," she said - ostensibly talking to the air - as she pointed toward the White House from adjacent to a yellow truck that was stationed close by. "See the alterations to it!"