As construction begins on US President Donald Trump’s new $250 million White House ballroom, the ambitious project has drawn both intrigue and controversy. Here are five key things to know about the unprecedented expansion at America’s most famous residence.

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Massive new addition to the White House

Work officially began this week on Trump’s 90,000-square-foot ballroom, with excavators tearing into parts of the East Wing. The opulent structure, which will hold up to 999 guests, is designed to replace the tents that have long been used for large events such as state dinners.

Renderings released by the White House show a gilded design reminiscent of Trump’s Mar-a-Lago ballroom. The president has said the facility is necessary because “the East Room is too small” for major occasions.

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