Inside Trump's golden White House: Five major changes reshaping America's most famous home
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Inside Trump’s Golden White House: Five Major Changes Redefining America’s Iconic Residence
When Donald J. Trump took the oath of office in January 2017, he did not just inherit a symbol of the American presidency – he inherited a house that had stood since 1790. Trump’s team set out to reimagine the White House, and within a few years the nation was treated to a series of high‑profile remodels that turned the historic home into a personal showcase of the former reality‑tv star’s taste and political agenda. MoneyControl’s in‑depth feature breaks the work down into five signature changes that together represent the most visible aspects of Trump’s “golden” vision for the White House.
1. The Oval Office Gets a New Floor and Palette
The Oval Office is the front‑door of American leadership, and Trump’s renovation of the room began with a fresh carpet and a new color scheme. The previous 2008 design – a dark brown “Cinderella” carpet with a subtle floral pattern – was replaced with a wide‑lay, cream‑white carpet featuring a subtle, metallic gold thread that gives the room a subtle shimmer under the large presidential seal. The new floor, sourced from a designer textile company, was described in the article as “sleek and modern, with a touch of class that echoes the grandeur of the White House.” The color palette was shifted from the traditional dark reds and burgundy to a softer, more neutral scheme punctuated by gold accents on the furnishings and picture frames, aligning with Trump’s desire to create a space that felt “up‑to‑date” while still paying homage to the historic setting.
2. A New Kitchen That Looks Less Like a Residence and More Like a Power Hub
One of the most publicized changes was the renovation of the White House kitchen. The old kitchen, built in 1975 and used by previous administrations, was repurposed into a “modern, high‑tech” space that could accommodate both daily functions and large receptions. Trump’s team installed a new, stainless‑steel refrigerator, a custom-built coffee machine that the article notes was purchased through a private vendor, and a new open‑plan layout with a “café‑style” counter that can accommodate up to a dozen guests at once. The kitchen’s new lighting – a blend of recessed LED fixtures and gold‑tinted fixtures – was described as “elegant and functional,” giving the space a distinctive look that the MoneyControl article credits to Trump’s personal taste for luxury and efficiency.
3. The West Wing Gets a Modern Office Upgrade
The West Wing, where the President’s executive offices and key staff operate, saw significant changes to improve workflow and visual identity. Trump’s renovation team overhauled the layout of the Oval Office’s adjacent staff rooms, replacing outdated desks and chairs with contemporary, ergonomic models. The article points out that the West Wing’s “new signage system,” featuring large, gold‑trimmed panels, was added to help visitors navigate the space more easily. Additionally, the article notes that the new “executive office” for the Vice President and senior advisors was redesigned with a dark wood finish and a custom, gold‑accented table, adding a touch of opulence to an otherwise functional space.
4. The Guest Suites Receive a Contemporary Makeover
Foreign dignitaries and visiting heads of state traditionally sleep in the White House’s guest suites. Trump’s team gave these rooms a contemporary facelift that emphasizes comfort while showcasing an understated luxury aesthetic. The guest suites were updated with new bedding that incorporates a gold‑rimmed “White House” embroidered design, modern artwork from American artists, and updated technology including smart‑phone‑controlled lighting and climate systems. The MoneyControl piece highlights how these changes are part of a broader effort to “project power and sophistication” during diplomatic visits.
5. A Golden Theme Becomes the Signature Style
Perhaps the most pervasive change across the White House is the introduction of a consistent golden theme. From the gold‑trimmed picture frames in the reception rooms to the gold‑colored doorknobs and brass fixtures, the article emphasizes that the golden motif ties together the various renovations. The gold accents are not limited to interior décor; the exterior of the White House also received new bronze‑colored railings, and the historic white paint of the facade was refreshed to a brighter, more reflective sheen. This unifying color scheme, according to the article, reflects Trump’s desire to imbue the White House with an “opulent yet modern” identity that aligns with his brand.
Reflections on the Transformations
The MoneyControl article, which cites interior design experts and former White House staff, suggests that Trump’s renovations were as much about personal expression as they were about practical upgrades. Critics pointed to the cost – estimated in the millions of dollars – while supporters argued that the updates were necessary to modernize a historic building that has remained largely unchanged since the 1970s. The article also references a Washington Post review that compared the White House’s new look to a “gold‑and‑white” living room, noting that the overall effect is to create a space that is at once dignified and unmistakably Trump.
In sum, Trump’s five major changes – the Oval Office floor and palette, the modern kitchen, the West Wing office overhaul, the guest suites’ contemporary makeover, and the overarching golden theme – collectively redefined the White House’s visual language. Whether viewed as a bold statement of leadership or a controversial use of public resources, these renovations remain a landmark chapter in the ongoing evolution of America’s most famous home.
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