🔗 Share this article Executive Mansion Begins Demolition of East Wing for New Banquet Hall Demolition work has started on part of the Executive Mansion's eastern section as work advance for the construction of a proposed executive ballroom. Construction crews started removing significant portions of a sheltered access point and windows in the eastern section earlier this week, with the renovation being characterized as a "total renovation" of the structure. The substantial investment banquet hall construction was earlier characterized as being "situated close to" the existing structure without altering its architectural integrity. "It won't interfere with the present facility. It won't be. It'll be near but not attached - and demonstrates full consideration to the current structure, which I'm the strongest supporter of," was declared in a previous announcement. "It's my favorite. It's my favorite place. I adore it." The renovation work was announced through online platforms, with confirmation that "construction has begun" on the "long-awaited" event area. "For over 150 years, every President has dreamt about having a Grand Hall at the White House to host guests for significant gatherings, official functions, etc," was expressed in the statement. The undertaking is being privately funded by "many generous Patriots" according to public announcements. The White House has acted as the historic home of the American leader for two centuries. The eastern section was initially erected in 1902 and was most recently changed in 1942. From the southern exposure of the facility, onlookers could see numerous significant units of construction equipment - some adorned with American banners - positioned near the East Wing. The sheltered access point, which covers a significant portion of the East Wing's southern exposure, appeared to be undergoing gutting, with demolition materials and steel wires clearly visible from several hundred meters away. The demolition work had attracted a small number of fascinated spectators who stopped to ask photographers and reporters about the ongoing work. One female, who was displaying a face covering and a placard with an opposing message on it, expressed her dismay. She chose to remain anonymous. "I disapprove," she said - ostensibly talking to the air - as she gestured at the White House from behind a yellow van that was stationed close by. "See the alterations to it!"