Donald Trump says “We’re bringing back marble columns” in push for D.C.’s classical style

At a White House event in March, President Donald Trump promoted an effort to remake Washington’s appearance, saying he wanted to bring back traditional stone columns and classical architectural styles under a slogan about making America beautiful. Since returning to office in 2025, his administration has pursued alterations to more than 100 federal structures, from a new White House ballroom and a proposed triumphal arch to repainting buildings and gilding statues. Early estimates put total costs above $1 billion, and while officials say private donations will cover much of it, budget documents show hundreds of millions in taxpayer funds have been shifted, including $350 million from Secret Service accounts. A rushed Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool renovation developed algae and peeling, and no-bid contracts drew criticism.