Shalom Baranes, a prominent Jewish architect, has been appointed to lead the reconstruction of the East Wing of the White House. This appointment follows the departure of the previous architect and centers around the construction of a ballroom as desired by President Donald Trump.
Background of Shalom Baranes
Baranes has a personal history that deeply connects him to the theme of immigration. Born shortly after his parents fled Libya due to antisemitic sentiment, he arrived in the United States as a child with the assistance of the Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society (HIAS).
Throughout his career, he has made significant contributions to Washington, D.C.’s architectural landscape, designing a variety of both private and government buildings, including the Pentagon. His firm, Shalom Baranes Associates, was confirmed by the White House for the East Wing project on December 5, 2025.
Design Challenges and Political Context
Baranes faced challenges with the initial architect regarding the ballroom’s dimensions. The White House spokesman, Davis Ingle, praised Baranes, noting his considerable experience and ability to shape the capital’s architectural identity.
Nevertheless, Baranes’ selection raises eyebrows due to his political connections. He has been a consistent donor to Democratic candidates and has publicly criticized Trump’s refugee policies.
Advocacy Against Anti-Immigrant Sentiment
In 2017, Baranes wrote an op-ed for the Washington Post in response to Trump’s travel ban affecting migrants from several Muslim-majority countries. In this piece, he reflected on his own family’s immigration struggles and expressed hope that the ban would not last long.
- Baranes emphasized the importance of providing refuge to oppressed individuals.
- He urged that those fleeing tyranny deserve opportunities to contribute to society.
Architectural Style and Project Risks
Despite his obvious qualifications, some question whether Baranes is suited for this White House project. His modern style contrasts with Trump’s preference for a more classical aesthetic. Additionally, taking on this politically charged project could pose risks to his reputation if the outcome is not favorable.
Douglas Freuhling, editor-in-chief of the Washington Business Journal, suggested that a successful collaboration could serve as a defining achievement in Baranes’ career. A well-executed project could ultimately highlight his talents in balancing modern design with traditional expectations.
Community Engagement
Baranes is also known for his community service. He contributed to restoring the interior of Sixth & I, a Jewish center in Washington, D.C., which was reconstructed about two decades ago. His commitment to both architecture and advocacy marks Baranes as a notable figure in today’s architectural landscape.
The upcoming reconstruction of the East Wing is more than just a design project; it also represents the intersection of politics, history, and personal narrative within the context of American immigration and architectural heritage.
