Newly released images reveal former President Donald Trump’s ongoing overhaul of the White House Rose Garden, replacing the traditional lawn with gravel. The dramatic transformation has reignited debate, building upon controversial changes initiated by Melania Trump in 2020 that already drew criticism for removing beloved greenery.
Read: Oregon Cuts Over $100 Million from Eviction Prevention Funding in Housing Budget
Gravel replaces garden lawn
Photos taken Friday show construction crews working in the Rose Garden, where the historic green lawn has been replaced with a thick layer of gravel. The renovation follows Trump’s earlier comments criticizing the soft ground, saying it was difficult for women to walk across the lawn in high heels. The garden, long used for public addresses and press events, now resembles an active construction site.
Also read: Tenant Screening Errors Fuel Biased Practices, Unjust Housing Denials for Renters
Echoes of Melania’s changes
The current renovation continues a series of controversial changes made under Trump’s administration, beginning with first lady Melania Trump’s 2020 redesign. That version removed original vegetation, including mature crab apple trees, and replaced it with structured rose bushes. Critics condemned the move for erasing a part of the garden’s character and history.
Also read: Duluth Tenants Push for ‘Right to Repair’ Ordinance to Hold Landlords Accountable
From Roosevelt to Kennedy
The Rose Garden was originally created in 1903 by Edith Roosevelt. Its most significant design came in 1962 when renowned horticulturist Rachel Lambert “Bunny” Mellon redesigned the garden for President John F. Kennedy. Her plan blended historical elegance with horticultural artistry, creating the iconic floral layout known today.
Also read: California’s Immigration Law Faces Lawsuit as DOJ Supports Huntington Beach
A cherished legacy altered
Before the Trumps’ renovations, only minor changes had been made to the Rose Garden by previous administrations since Mellon’s iconic redesign. These adjustments were generally viewed as preservations of its legacy rather than structural overhauls. The recent work marks a significant departure from that tradition.
Also read: Seattle Fire Displaces Dozens, Tenants Frustrated Over Rent and Repairs
Reactions to the gravel makeover
Though Trump defended the latest changes as practical improvements, many have expressed shock at the transformation. Images circulated online show heavy equipment, construction materials, and large barriers in place of once-flourishing greenery. The stark visual contrast has amplified criticism from preservationists and political observers alike.
Also read: Eight Dallas Lawyers Defend Tenants in 600+ Eviction Cases Monthly
Public and political pushback
Social media reactions and political commentary have largely been skewed negatively. Observers labeled the redesign as destructive and unnecessary, with critics claiming Trump has dismantled yet another American tradition. Some compared the project to his broader disregard for historical norms during his presidency.
Also read: NY to Hold Landlords Accountable for Delayed Repairs After Bronx Blaze
A new chapter, or erasure?
The ongoing renovation raises questions about the future of the Rose Garden. Whether the gravel-filled space will be temporary or remain as part of a larger vision is unclear. However, for many, the images already symbolize the erosion of a cherished presidential symbol.
Next up:
Texas Bans Land Sales to Foreign Adversaries Amid Espionage Fears
Massachusetts Law Demands Full Disclosure of Home Defects to Protect Buyers
Dare County Mayors Oppose SB 205, Citing Risks to Local Planning
California’s Immigration Law Faces Lawsuit as DOJ Supports Huntington Beach
