Donald Trump\u2019s latest makeover plan for Washington DC is already running into serious backlash \u2013 and this time, critics say the damage could be permanent.<\/p>\n
Since returning to the White House, Donald Trump has pushed a number of changes tied to the nation\u2019s capital, including updates to the White House grounds and broader efforts aimed at making the city look more \u201cbeautiful\u201d and patriotic. Supporters have praised the projects as an attempt to restore pride to some of America\u2019s most iconic political landmarks.<\/p>\n
But one proposal in particular is causing outrage among architects, historians, and preservation experts. Trump reportedly wants to paint the historic Eisenhower Executive Office Building \u2013 the massive 19th-century building located next to the White House \u2013 completely white.<\/p>\n
The building, which first opened in 1888 after 17 years of construction, is currently known for its distinctive gray granite exterior. It\u2019s also designated as a National Historic Landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.<\/p>\n
Trump wants to paint the Eisenhower Executive Office Building
\nTrump, however, has previously made it clear he\u2019s not a fan of the current look, according to Tyla.<\/p>\n
According to outlets including AP News, the president once described the granite as a \u201creally bad color.\u201d The Washington Post also reported that Trump said: \u201cGray is for funerals,\u201d before adding: \u201cLook at it, how beautiful that is with a coat of paint.\u201d<\/p>\n
According to the White House, repainting the exterior could cost taxpayers at least $7.5 million \u2013 and that estimate only covers the initial work, not long-term maintenance.<\/p>\n
Officials have reportedly proposed two different versions of the project. One would involve painting the entire granite exterior white, while the other would leave the granite base untouched and paint the rest of the building.<\/p>\n
The fully white version is reportedly the preferred option.<\/p>\n
\u201cWill adversely and permanently alter this important landmark\u201d
\nExperts have warned that painting granite is far more complicated than simply covering it with a fresh coat of paint. Critics argue the paint could trap moisture inside the stone, potentially damaging the building and permanently altering one of Washington\u2019s historic landmarks.<\/p>\n
Priya Jain, from the Society of Architectural Historians, reportedly criticized the proposal, saying: \u201cPainting the granite facade of the building white will adversely and permanently alter this important landmark, and should be rejected.\u201d<\/p>\n
So far, the National Capital Planning Commission has not signed off on the plan. Instead, officials are asking the White House for more details about the type of paint being considered, testing procedures, possible removal methods, long-term maintenance, and alternative options.<\/p>\n
Ryan Erb, the construction operations and facilities manager in the White House Office of Administration, said testing is still underway.<\/p>\n
\u201cUnfortunately, we can\u2019t rush that process,\u201d he told commissioners, adding: \u201cWe\u2019re trying to get all the data first.\u201d<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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