🔗 Share this article Executive Mansion Starts Demolition of East Wing for Planned Ballroom Renovation efforts has started on a section of the Executive Mansion's eastern section as preparations progress for the building of a proposed presidential ballroom. Workers began tearing down large sections of a sheltered access point and window structures in the eastern section earlier this week, with the renovation being labeled a "full upgrade" of the structure. The quarter-billion dollar banquet hall construction was initially presented as being "positioned adjacent to" the existing structure without changing its architectural integrity. "It won't interfere with the current building. It will not. It will be adjacent but not attached - and pays total respect to the current structure, which I'm the strongest supporter of," was declared in a previous announcement. "It's my favorite. It's my preferred location. I adore it." The renovation work was revealed through social media, with declaration that "ground has been broken" on the "much-needed" event area. "For over 150 years, each chief executive has envisioned having a Event Space at the White House to welcome visitors for significant gatherings, diplomatic receptions, etc," was stated in the declaration. The project is being privately funded by "many generous Patriots" according to public announcements. The White House has served as the traditional residence of the US president for two centuries. The East Wing was originally constructed in 1902 and was most recently changed in 1942. From the southern exposure of the facility, onlookers could see several large pieces of building machinery - several featuring American banners - situated adjacent to the East Wing. The sheltered access point, which spans much of the eastern section's southern exposure, appeared to be undergoing gutting, with demolition materials and industrial cords clearly visible from a considerable distance away. The demolition work had drawn a modest gathering of fascinated spectators who paused to inquire media personnel about the current activities. One individual, who was wearing a protective gear and a poster with an critical message on it, shared her disapproval. She declined to provide her name. "I don't like it," she said - seemingly speaking to nobody in particular - as she motioned toward the White House from behind a yellow van that was positioned in the vicinity. "Observe the changes to it!"