They Paved Paradise? A Closer Look at Trump’s New White House Rose Garden

The White House, America's most recognizable residence, has undergone numerous transformations throughout its history, reflecting the changing tastes and needs of its presidential inhabitants. From its initial construction to modern-day modifications, each renovation has left a distinct mark on the iconic building. The process of building the White House began in 1789, culminating in 1800 when President John Adams became its first resident. The original structure, designed by James Hoban, was a classically inspired building that laid the foundation for its enduring architectural style. However, its early existence was brief; in 1814, during the War of 1812, British soldiers burned the White House. Reconstruction efforts, again led by Hoban, completed in 1817, and further additions like the South and North Porticos followed in the 1820s. Over the decades, presidents have initiated various projects to personalize or modernize the residence. In 1881, President Chester Arthur introduced a distinct Victorian flair, including a prominent Louis Comfort Tiffany screen and gilded tracery, while simultaneously auctioning off existing furnishings. This Victorian influence was later removed in 1902 during Theodore Roosevelt's classical renovation, which also saw the significant addition of the West Wing, transforming the White House into a more cohesive and modern administrative center. In 1942, under Franklin Delano Roosevelt, the East Wing was added, primarily to conceal an underground bunker known as the Presidential Emergency Operations Center, and has since served as office space for the First Lady and her staff. A major structural overhaul became necessary between 1948 and 1952 during the Truman administration, as engineers found the building to be structurally unsound. This extensive renovation involved dismantling and rebuilding much of the interior, forcing the presidential family to reside elsewhere. This effort ensured the physical integrity of the White House as it stands today. A decade later, in 1961, First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy embarked on a celebrated redecoration project. Collaborating with experts like Sister Parish and Stéphane Boudin, she focused on restoring the White House with historic American art and artifacts, aiming to showcase the nation's presidential history rather than merely redecorate. Her efforts were widely acclaimed, culminating in a televised tour that earned her an honorary Emmy. Subsequent administrations continued to introduce changes. In 1979, the Carter administration demonstrated an early commitment to sustainability by installing the White House's first computer and water-heating solar panels, though the panels were later removed and reinstalled by different administrations. More recently, the Obama administration undertook a redesign of the Oval Office in 2013, guided by AD100 designer Michael S. Smith, introducing a mix of historic and contemporary elements. In 2017, the Trump administration initiated a significant $3.4 million overhaul of the Oval Office, HVAC and IT systems, the West Wing lobby, and the South Portico steps, which included new furniture, wallpaper, carpeting, and gold-hued upholstery. The proposed additions in 2025 by President Trump included a new ballroom and modifications to the Rose Garden. The Rose Garden, originally designed by Rachel “Bunny” Lambert Mellon, saw its central lawn replaced with stone pavers, aiming to create a patio-like space. The more substantial plan involved a $200 million, 90,000-square-foot ballroom designed by classicist architect James McCrery II, intended to expand seating capacity significantly. This project, which required partial demolition of the East Wing, generated concerns among architectural historians and professional organizations like the Society of Architectural Historians and the American Institute of Architects, who advocated for a rigorous design and review process for such a monumental alteration to a historic building. #WhiteHouse #PresidentialResidences #ArchitecturalHistory #RenovationTimeline #AmericanHistory #InteriorDesign #HistoricalPreservation #GovernmentBuildings #ArchitecturalChanges

Achieving a magazine-worthy urban garden is often more complex than simply purchasing plants and placing them in unprepared soil. This process involves multiple facets such as excavation, grading, drainage, masonry, fencing, irrigation, lighting, and soil amendment before any planting occurs, and necessitates selecting the appropriate plants for their specific locations. Alice S. Marcus Krieg, co-founder of Groundworks, a Brooklyn-based garden design-build firm established in 2001 with Carmen DeVito, notes that clients often present magazine images of gardens, unaware that these designs may be unsuitable for a Brooklyn climate, like those from Southern California. Many Brooklyn homeowners desire a lush green lawn, but Krieg points out that lawns are high-maintenance, requiring full sun, frequent mowing (every seven to ten days), and substantial water and fertilizer. Groundworks addresses these challenges through a structured process. An initial consultation focuses on understanding client desires and intended use for the space. Subsequently, the team presents three garden layout options with estimated costs. Once a design is chosen, a budget set, and an agreement signed, the installation phase begins. Groundworks manages all aspects of the project, including subcontracting masonry and carpentry, overseeing installation, and personally handling soil preparation and planting. Following installation, they offer ongoing maintenance services or provide a monthly to-do list for clients who prefer a hands-on approach. A significant portion of their work, approximately 65%, involves rear yards of row houses in Brooklyn. This type of project presents unique challenges, as all materials—from fencing and pavers to soil and plants—must be manually transported through the house, increasing labor and delivery costs, which often exceed client expectations. Structural elements represent a substantial part of the cost. For example, fencing for a typical 20-foot-by-40-foot backyard, a common initial client request, can range from $5,000 to $7,000 for cedar stockade and up to $20,000 for high-end ipé horizontal slat fencing. A comprehensive garden project, including fencing, a patio or deck, soil, plants, lighting, and irrigation, can reach mid-five figures, with some brownstone garden projects totaling up to $60,000. Plant material typically constitutes only about 10% of this overall cost. Despite these figures, cost-saving strategies exist. Krieg highlights that many clients inherit existing gardens with valuable but unmaintained elements such as old lilacs, roses, or viburnums. Groundworks assesses these existing plants, pruning and editing them to become focal points, emphasizing that in small urban gardens, each plant must be carefully selected to maximize its contribution. Economical plant choices that thrive year-round are preferred over those that require frequent replacement. For the dappled shade common in Brooklyn backyards, Groundworks recommends plants such as rhododendrons, pieris, climbing hydrangea, and low-growing ornamental grasses like carex and sedge for ground cover. Hardy, shade-tolerant camellias are suggested for floral displays, producing rose-like blooms in spring and fall. Creative solutions for budget-conscious designs include "limbing up" existing trees to expose their trunks and building decks or patios around them, or adding an ipé wood lip to an inexpensive fence to create a custom appearance. Groundworks also utilizes faux turf for children’s play areas, describing it as a high-end product made from recycled, permeable materials with subtle coloration. While costing $25 to $35 per square foot, it offers a 15-year lifespan, negating the annual struggles associated with natural lawns. Krieg and DeVito often encounter homeowners who have attempted to create attractive and functional outdoor spaces themselves, only to find the process more challenging than anticipated. The firm’s decades of knowledge and experience are presented as a solution for those seeking professional assistance with their backyard projects. #GardenDesign #BackyardGardens #UrbanGardening #LandscapeDesign #GroundworksInc #BrooklynGardens #HomeImprovement #OutdoorLiving #FauxTurf

Following Donald Trump's inauguration, the Oval Office underwent a redesign, with social media users quickly identifying various changes. A prominent feature of this redesign was the alleged use of gold-painted Home Depot moldings, which sparked widespread discussion and commentary across online platforms. The internet's reaction highlighted the perceived shift in aesthetic from previous administrations, particularly contrasting with the more traditional and subdued decor often associated with the office. Many observers noted the stylistic choices as reflective of Trump's personal brand and design preferences, which typically favor opulent and gilded aesthetics. The pictorial diary format of the article likely showcased a series of images, contrasting the newly decorated Oval Office with its appearance under previous presidents. These visual comparisons would have fueled the online debate, allowing for direct side-by-side analysis of the design elements. The focus on specific details, such as the moldings, indicates a keen public interest in the minutiae of presidential residences and workspaces, especially when they undergo significant alterations. The use of 'Home Depot' in particular suggested a blend of high-end aspirations with more accessible, perhaps even DIY, components, which further engaged internet commentators. Beyond the moldings, other elements of the redecoration would have been scrutinized. This could include changes to draperies, rugs, furniture, and art, all contributing to the overall atmosphere of the iconic office. The internet's immediate and detailed analysis underscores the power of social media in disseminating information and shaping public perception, even on seemingly trivial matters of interior design. This rapid assessment often involves crowdsourced identification of items and styles, as individuals contribute their observations and expertise. The article, through its 'pictorial diary' approach, would have served as a visual record of these changes, allowing readers to form their own opinions on the aesthetic choices made. Such a format often enables a more engaging and interactive experience for the audience, inviting them to participate in the observation and critique. The commentary surrounding the gold-painted moldings from a mainstream hardware store also touches on broader themes of perceived luxury versus practicality, and how these perceptions manifest in public spaces, particularly those with significant symbolic weight like the Oval Office. Ultimately, the discussion around the Oval Office's redecoration, particularly the 'gold-painted Home Depot moldings,' became a microcosm of larger conversations about the new administration's style and approach. It offered a seemingly lighthearted entry point into political commentary, using design choices as a lens through which to view broader changes. The internet's collective eye for detail and its penchant for rapid, often humorous, analysis ensured that these decorative alterations did not go unnoticed, transforming a simple redecoration into a widely discussed cultural moment. #OvalOfficeRedo #DonaldTrump #HomeDepot #InteriorDesign #PresidentialDecor #SocialMediaReaction #PoliticalSatire #DesignCriticism

President Donald Trump's redecoration of the Oval Office has garnered significant attention, largely due to his extensive use of gold accents. This "Midas touch," as some describe it, involves a range of gilded elements, including ornamental moldings on the fireplace mantel, wainscoting, and crown molding, as well as golden tables, gilded portrait frames, and a glammed-up presidential seal. Even golden cherubs are part of the new aesthetic. Trump himself has described these additions as being handled with "great love and 24 karat gold," and The Wall Street Journal reported that a South Florida cabinetmaker, whom Trump refers to as his "gold guy," custom-made the elaborate finishes at the President's request. However, this narrative has been met with skepticism from some social media users, who theorize that the opulent decor might actually consist of inexpensive millwork appliqués from Home Depot, merely covered in spray paint. This raises questions about the true origin and cost of the White House's new gold embellishments. The debate reflects a broader difficulty in discerning truth in contemporary public discourse, particularly when conflicting claims arise about prominent figures or institutions. Investigative reporting by Inside Edition delved into these theories, specifically exploring whether the Home Depot rumor held any weight and how individuals might replicate a similar look using supplies from the popular home improvement store. A TikToker's viral video presented a compelling argument that specific elements, such as the fireplace millwork and cherubs, are polyurethane pieces manufactured by Ekena Millworks, a brand widely available at Home Depot. This claim suggested that parts of the White House's decor could be sourced from a common retail outlet, challenging the perception of custom, high-end craftsmanship. BuzzFeed followed up on these allegations by contacting Ekena Millworks for their perspective. The company responded by stating, "We work with several design firms in DC that have worked on the White House and believe these could be our onlays." This statement, while not a direct confirmation, lends credibility to the idea that their products might have been used. Furthermore, the White House had previously announced its collaboration with McCrery Architects, a Washington, D.C.-based firm, for a new ballroom project, which could indirectly support the possibility of D.C.-based design firms utilizing various suppliers. Ekena Millworks also highlights its reputation for producing high-quality carvings, noting that clients like Disney trust their products for complex projects. The implication is that if their inexpensive polyurethane and wood moldings are suitable for the rigorous demands of Disney theme parks, they would likely be durable enough for the White House. Regardless of whether the gold decor was custom-made by Trump's designated artisan or purchased from a retail chain, the article suggests that DIY enthusiasts interested in achieving a similar gilded look can do so using readily available products like Rust-Oleum Universal Surface Metallic or Krylon Gold Spray Paint, which are popular among DIYers for their effectiveness in creating a metallic finish. #WhiteHouseDecor #GoldDecor #OvalOffice #HomeDepotRumor #TrumpAdministration #InteriorDesign #DIYDecor #EkenaMillworks

The Metropolitan Opera's Patron Lounge, now known as the Keebler J. Straz Lounge, underwent a significant redesign by ELLE DECOR A-Listers Christine and John Gachot of Gachot Studios. This renovation marks a new chapter for the storied space, originally decorated by Billy Baldwin when the opera house opened in 1966. The Gachots, longtime fans of the Met Opera, were tasked with refreshing the lounge to reflect contemporary luxury while honoring its rich history and the grand aesthetics of the opera house. The original lounge, characterized by its wall-to-wall windows and domed ceiling, was designed by Baldwin to offer practical, flexible seating areas for guests. However, after decades, the space required a modern update. The Gachots were selected for their expertise in warm, sophisticated interiors, demonstrated in previous luxury hospitality projects like the Pendry Manhattan West and Detroit’s Shinola Hotel. Their approach to the Met Opera lounge involved a deep dive into the Met’s extensive archives, studying original sketches and photographs to reinterpret Baldwin's vision while introducing a fresh perspective. Inspired by Baldwin's initial layout, the Gachots divided the lounge into distinct zones for various activities, including a bar area, comfortable sofas, and tables for gathering. This zoning strategy ensures that the space remains versatile and inviting. The design seamlessly integrates with the opera's iconic common areas, such as the lobby with its red carpeting and travertine accents. The chosen color palette of blush, red, and camel complements these existing elements, creating a cohesive aesthetic throughout the venue. One of the standout features of the redesigned lounge is a glittering gold custom carpet by Creative Matters, which evokes the effervescence of freshly popped Champagne, serving as a luxurious counterpoint to the lobby's famous red carpet. Other custom elements include a brass Amuneal bar, screens upholstered in Clarence House fabric, and all furniture supplied by Roche Bobois. The bathrooms feature fixtures by Waterworks from the Bond collection, designed in collaboration with Gachot, alongside Waterworks sinks, mirrors, and stone. The lounge's new name, the Keebler J. Straz Lounge, honors a managing director on the Met Opera’s board who generously funded the renovation. Access to this exclusive space is reserved for Metropolitan Opera sponsor members. The redesign is intended to symbolize a renewed commitment to attracting and nurturing a new generation of opera enthusiasts and patrons, a sentiment echoed by both Straz and the Gachots. The project underscores the importance of cultural institutions and the role of design in preserving and evolving these significant spaces. #MetropolitanOpera #LoungeRedesign #GachotStudios #LuxuryInteriorDesign #CulturalRenovation #HospitalityDesign #NewYorkDesign #OperaHouse #InteriorDecor

This blog post highlights a newly constructed, multi-million dollar residence located at 1222 Mississauga Road in the affluent Lorne Park neighbourhood of Mississauga. Priced at $6.9 million, this property is designed not merely for living but to offer a comprehensive wellness experience, setting it apart from conventional homes. The article details the property's significant features, emphasizing its integration of luxury amenities with daily living spaces. Upon entering the residence, guests are greeted by a dramatic 23-foot Neolith stone wall, establishing a tone of sophistication. The entrance leads into expansive, open-concept living and dining areas, characterized by abundant natural light, built-in display cabinetry, and integrated ceiling speakers. The main level further includes a thoughtfully designed family room, which features a Regency-style gas fireplace, providing a focal point for gatherings, complemented by extensive custom storage solutions. The kitchen is presented as a culinary haven, equipped with smart and premium appliances from renowned brands such as SubZero for refrigeration and Wolf for its induction cooktop with dual ovens. Additional features include a panelled Miele dishwasher, a built-in coffee machine, a pot-filler faucet, a warming drawer, and dual sinks. The kitchen's aesthetic is enhanced by a modern chandelier and layered under-cabinet and base strip lighting, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. The primary suite, located upstairs, boasts 12.6-foot ceilings and cove lighting, contributing to a spacious and tranquil atmosphere. It includes a walk-in closet secured with an electronic lock and a built-in safe. The accompanying ensuite bathroom is a sanctuary for relaxation, offering dual vanities, a deep soaking tub, heated floors, and a steam shower with massaging jets. The upper level also accommodates three additional bedrooms, each featuring its own ensuite bathroom and walk-in closet, with one bedroom providing a private balcony. The lower level of the home is specifically designed as a comprehensive wellness and recreation space. It houses both SaunaCore Infrared and traditional saunas, a steam room equipped with rain and massage showerheads, a dedicated spa vanity, and a changing area. For fitness enthusiasts, there is a mirrored gym with anti-slip floors and a built-in TV mount. This entire basement area benefits from natural light, heated floors, ceiling speakers, and a fireplace, ensuring a warm, inviting, and serene environment, effectively transforming the home into a private wellness retreat. The property, a custom-built residence, is a first-time listing and represents a unique opportunity for elevated living within a desirable community. #LuxuryRealEstate #MississaugaHomes #WellnessRetreat #HomeDesign #SpaAmenities #DavidSmallDesigns #SmartHome #LornePark #CustomBuilt