The East Wing has been torn down to make way for a multimillion-dollar ballroom expansion.
The White House is more than just the president's office. Since it was first built in 1792, it has become both a time-honored, historic landmark and architectural institution. But while most people might envision the Oval Office or the now paved-over Rose Garden when they think of the White House, the East Wing also holds a particular place in the public's hearts. Not only did the area serve as the First Lady's office, but it also had public rooms that visitors would be able to access through a tour. Well, until now, that is.
This week, President Donald Trump confirmed the East Wing would be torn down to make way for a new ballroom. According to AP News, President Trump said keeping the East Wing would've "hurt a very, very expensive, beautiful building” he wanted for many years. The project, which is reportedly funded by private donors, is slated to cost $300 million.
As we say goodbye to the East Wing as we knew it, here's a look at how the iconic space has changed over the years.
Built by White House architect Lorenzo Winslow during the Franklin D. Roosevelt administration in 1942, the East Wing originally served as a working space that could help conceal the new bunker built below. While the East Wing might be an integral part of the White House now, it was met with some controversy back then. In fact, critics called the expansion a "wasteful" project that would only enhance President Roosevelt's image.
Controversy aside, the East Wing got plenty of use in its early years. First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt reportedly used this space for meetings with organizations like Girl Scouts and the Women’s Trade Union League.
Over the years, the East Wing was also used for press conferences. Here, President Richard Nixon addresses the media in a formal, chandelier-clad room in 1969.
It wasn't until Rosalynn Carter became First Lady that the East Wing began being used as the First Lady's office. Here, the Carters are interviewed by Barbara Walters.
Around the holidays, the East Wing would be decorated for guests to see. For her last Christmas at the White House, former First Lady Hillary Rodham Clinton selected a classic look for her "Holiday Reflections" theme.
Each First Lady gave the East Wing their own personal touch. During the Bush administration, First Lady Laura Bush peppered her space with sweet, peachy blooms.
First Lady Michelle Obama enlisted Chicago-based David Lee Csicsko to create a stained glass piece for the East Wing's 2012 holiday display.
During the first Trump administration, First Lady Melania Trump decked the East Wing with white branches and dramatic uplighting.
Before being knocked down, the East Wing was flanked by manicured hedges and fresh flowers.
First Lady Dr. Jill Biden implemented digital educational hubs to further inform visitors who stopped by the White House's East Wing.
As of October 23, 2025, the East Wing has officially been torn down, marking an end to its decades-long history.
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