Trump’s favorite place is one of the key influences behind White House renovations, reveals insider
WASHINGTON, DC: Donald Trump’s approach to redecorating the White House is drawing attention and criticism for its over-the-top style.
An insider now claims the president’s renovations are modeled after one of his favorite properties: Mar-a-Lago.
Insider reveals Donald Trump’s inspiration behind White House renovations
Since taking office, Trump has made quiet but noticeable changes to the historic residence, reportedly to remind himself and his family of their Palm Beach estate.
“Their plans for the White House are being implemented to remind them of Mar-a-Lago,” the source told People. “That way, when they aren’t in Palm Beach, they are there in the mind.”
Mar-a-Lago, Trump’s 20-acre Florida club and residence, is known for its opulent gold finishes, chandeliers, and sprawling ballrooms. Similar design choices are now surfacing at the White House, including gold-trimmed walls and fireplaces in the Oval Office.
But not all of Trump’s updates have been well-received. His decision to replace the historic Rose Garden lawn with a cement patio complete with striped umbrellas reminiscent of his Florida club sparked backlash from preservationists.
Plans for a 90,000-square-foot ballroom, modeled after Mar-a-Lago’s Grand Ballroom, have also raised eyebrows. Trump has promised to fund the massive addition himself.
BREAKING: We're getting an expansion!
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) July 31, 2025
Beginning in September, construction will begin on a brand-new 90,000 square ft ballroom that will be enjoyed for generations to come. ✨
Visit https://t.co/fYztfJspLP for more information pic.twitter.com/SVvlaDpRmA
“Anytime Melania and Donald can make the White House feel more like Mar-a-Lago, they will,” a club member told People. “Not only is (Mar-a-Lago) their home, but Donald personally created much of the decor and takes pride in living there and showing it to other people.”
Donald Trump unhappy with certain parts of White House
According to a Mar-a-Lago regular, President Trump has long been dissatisfied with some of the official residences and retreats traditionally used by US presidents. The source revealed that Trump was “never happy” with certain parts of the White House and Camp David, finding them underwhelming compared to his personal taste and lifestyle.
“We are testing the speakers for what will be the greatest event in the history of the White House!” -President Trumppic.twitter.com/hfOmFZvmFz
— Karoline Leavitt (@PressSec) August 19, 2025
On August 20, press secretary Karoline Leavitt showcased a major transformation of the Rose Garden to reporters. Once a lush green lawn with historic roots, the space has now been replaced by a concrete patio. The garden also features yellow-and-white striped umbrellas, a signature look borrowed directly from Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach.
Trump has reportedly ordered a reshuffling of the portraits of past presidents and first ladies, moving many of them aside to create space for oversized, dramatic paintings of himself. While every first family is known to personalize White House interiors, critics argue that the Trump-era modifications go far beyond tradition.
