"Critiques of Donald and Melania Trump's unappealing concreted garden"
In the heart of Washington D.C., the White House Rose Garden, a symbol of American history and tradition, is undergoing a significant transformation under the leadership of President Donald Trump. The garden, which was first established during the Kennedy administration, has been a venue for major announcements and ceremonies, but its latest makeover has sparked a wave of controversy and debate.
Months ago, President Trump announced his plans to pave the Rose Garden, citing practical concerns for women wearing high heels and a preference for a more aesthetically pleasing, patio-like look. This decision marked the second major update to the Rose Garden during his presidency, following Melania Trump's 2020 improvements that included a limestone walking path, drainage fixes, and increased accessibility.
The current status of the project is that the paving over of the lawn is nearing completion, with the previously grassy lawn now fully covered with a patterned hard surface made of tiled squares. Construction crews are putting the finishing touches on the project, which is expected to be completed by mid-August 2025.
The transformation of the Rose Garden has not gone unnoticed. Michael Beschloss, a renowned presidential historian, described Melania Trump's botanical vision for the garden as "gloomy," leading to a response from Melania Trump's office. The paving over of the lawn has been a topic of controversy since its initial implementation during Trump's first term, with public opinion divided between preserving tradition and embracing modernity and practicality.
The petition signed by 75,000 people in May 2021 asked Jill Biden to return the Rose Garden to the style of Jackie Kennedy. However, with Donald Trump back in office, the garden's transformation continues. Critics argue that the paving over of the lawn destroys the natural beauty of the Rose Garden, while defenders claim it prevents the lawn from getting destroyed again.
The redesigned Rose Garden, now adorned with a healthy and vibrant display of roses, has been the subject of much debate. Some view it as tacky and tasteless, while others defend it as providing a more suitable area for media and events. The garden, which lies in front of the Oval Office, has undergone a significant change, making it hardly recognizable compared to its previous design.
From the removal of tulips and the relocation of ornamental apple trees planted by Jacqueline Kennedy, to the addition of spherical boxwood trees, trimmed lawns, and few pastel-colored flowers, the Rose Garden now bears a stark contrast to its earlier design. The redesign during Trump's second term has been met with both criticism and defense, reflecting the divided opinions on the changes.
As the project nears completion, the Rose Garden continues to be a focal point of discussion, symbolising the ongoing debate between preserving history and embracing modernisation. The transformation of the Rose Garden, under President Trump's leadership, serves as a visible reminder of the evolving nature of the White House and the Presidency.
- The controversial transformation of the White House Rose Garden, a symbol of American history and tradition, is being led by President Donald Trump during his second term.
- The lifestyle and home-and-garden debate has been reignited with the paving over of the Rose Garden's grassy lawn, which critics argue destroys its natural beauty, while defenders claim it provides a more suitable area for media and events.
- Politics and general news continue to focus on the redesigned Rose Garden, with the public divided between preserving its historical design and appreciating the modern patio-like look, symbolizing the ongoing struggle between tradition and modernity.
