• Trump hires Shalom Baranes Associates to lead the White House ballroom project.
• Former architect James McCrery remains as a consultant despite initial disagreements.
• Ballroom plans have expanded significantly, now accommodating up to 1,350 guests.
• The project has faced criticism for lack of oversight and rising costs.

President Donald Trump has hired Shalom Baranes Associates to oversee the design of the new White House ballroom, following disputes with the previous architect, James McCrery. While McCrery will continue as a consultant, he and Trump reportedly clashed over the ballroom's size and design compatibility with the existing architecture of the White House. White House spokesman Davis Ingle praised Shalom Baranes' experience, claiming the ballroom will be "the greatest addition to the White House since the Oval Office," according to CBS News, BBC, and India Times.

Initial plans for the ballroom, announced last July, have dramatically expanded from a capacity of 650 to now fit 1,350 guests. Considering various design iterations, the ballroom's initial estimated size of 90,000 square feet has generated concerns that it could overshadow other historic parts of the White House, particularly given its increasing anticipated cost, which has risen from the original $200 million to an estimated $300 million, funded entirely by private donations, as reported by BBC and India Times.

The decision to commence construction has faced scrutiny, particularly from conservationists concerned about the demolition of the East Wing, which occurred without the necessary approvals. Critics, including Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal, have introduced the "No Palaces Act," aimed at requiring congressional approval for such projects, notably to prevent future administrations from making similar unilateral decisions regarding historic sites, according to CBS News and India Times.