First Lady Melania Trump unveils restorations of White House Rose Garden


The Rose Garden has been under construction since last month, when the first lady announced that she was laying out an overview of the space to include updates to the technological elements of the space, as well as the redesign of the plantations and the placement of new limestone walking trails. Since construction began, the garden – which was used more frequently during the Covid-19 era to hold news conferences because it allows for more social distance for White House staff, journalists and guests – has been outside staff and members of the press. out of sight.

CNN previously reported that the space was on a list of spots for the first lady’s concluding speech. The GOP convention is set to begin next week, and President Donald Trump will give his address to the White House’s South Lawn.

The president and first lady are set to hold a closed reception later on Saturday in the Rose Garden, which Vice President Mike Pence and second lady Karen Pence also plan to attend. CNN has requested a list of those who will be present.

The restoration resembles the original design and formation of the Rose Garden, founded by President John F. Kennedy, and executed in 1962 by gardener and philanthropist Rachel “Bunny” Mellon. The garden had not undergone extensive renovation since then.

One of the first lady’s stated goals for the renovation was to “fulfill the dynamic needs of the modern presidency”, so that part of the updated design includes modern features for audio and visual capabilities, such as lighting and access to television cameras.

The renovation of the Rose Garden was paid for by private donations.

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