Renovations are currently in progress for the iconic White House Rose Garden, initiated by President Donald Trump’s directive to overhaul the historic outdoor space. The construction, which began in June, includes a notable change of replacing the grass with gravel, a decision aimed at improving accessibility for visitors, particularly those wearing high heels during events.

The Rose Garden, established in 1913 during the Woodrow Wilson administration, has been a prominent venue for various White House functions such as speeches, press conferences, and even weddings. Renowned landscape designer Rachel Lambert Mellon was brought in by former First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy in 1962 to create its iconic layout, which has since been a significant part of the White House landscape.

This recent renovation follows First Lady Melania Trump’s revamp of the garden in 2020, which involved updating the irrigation system and replanting flowers along the perimeter. The current overhaul is part of several renovations initiated by President Trump in his second term, including the installation of an 88-foot flagpole on the south lawn and the addition of new decorative elements inside the White House, such as gold trimmings and portraits of Trump.

As the White House undergoes these transformations, it reflects the administration’s commitment to modernizing and enhancing the historical significance of the presidential residence. The evolving aesthetic changes and renovations signify a blend of tradition and contemporary vision within the heart of American governance.