WASHINGTON - The White House East Wing has been demolished as President Donald Trump moves ahead with plans to build a ballroom that, according to renderings, will be nearly twice the size of the White House itself.

East Wing demolished

The two-story East Wing had traditionally been home to drawing rooms, offices, and workspace for first ladies and their staffs.

President Trump tapped McCrery Architects, a Washington, D.C.-based firm known for its classical design, to lead the project.

PHOTOS: White House East Wing before the demolition

"Presidents in the modern era have faced challenges hosting major events at the White House because it has been untouched since President Harry Truman," CEO Jim McCrery said in a White House statement. "I am honored that President Trump has entrusted

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