Former President Donald Trump’s administration ushered in an aesthetic revolution to the Oval Office. He accepted an over-the-top “goldening” theme, which was inspired by the ornate Hall of Mirrors at the Palace of Versailles. This glitzy style of interior decoration was equally on display in the office itself. Features such as gold edging, lots of paintings and personal items gave a really impressive feeling.
Trump’s affinity for grandeur is not new. He has previously boasted about how the ballroom at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida mirrors the elegance of the French palace. His passion for luxury rejuvenated the White House. Perhaps no other aspect of the White House was more dramatically altered under his presidency than its decor.
Perhaps the most surprising stroke of genius on Trump’s part was bringing in the 70-year-old Florida-based cabinet maker John Icart. Icart climbed aboard Air Force One along with the other dignitaries and flew back to Washington. His mission? To deliver that same gaudy glamour to the Oval Office that he had mastered for Trump’s Mar-a-Lago mansion. The creative partnership led to significant alterations in the Oval Office’s layout. On top of that, it added gorgeous, gilded finishing touches to the ceilings, door frames and fireplace.
Over a few months’ time, Trump’s desire for a more opulent Oval Office coalesced into an ambitious vision. Under president Joe Biden, the number of displayed paintings skyrocketed from only six to almost twenty. These artworks are notable for their prominent portrayals of other past presidential predecessors. The decor included not just pictures of the Trump family but a framed copy of the Declaration of Independence. This perfect combination emphasized a rare mix of personal and historical importance.
The new Oval Office’s gold spectacular was adorned with all manner of golden accents. Golden cherubim covered the walls, and golden door seals and trim above doorways added to the extravagant look. A talented fine craftsperson out of Michigan produced this gorgeous handmade area rug. It features engraved quotes from U.S. luminaries such as Abraham Lincoln, John F. Kennedy and Theodore Roosevelt, bringing a touch of historical awe to the opulent creation.
As the musician Jack White wrote to Restore the Music about the change, ” He characterized that room as looking like a “wrestler’s dressing room,” which was both “vulgar” and “gaudy.” This thoughtful commentary reveals the rift in public opinion on the design choices made by Trump during his presidency.
The Oval Office featured some interesting artifacts, including the FIFA Club World Cup trophy. This trophy, presented by the organization’s president, signified Trump’s ongoing foray into the world of sports diplomacy.
“golden office for the golden age.” – Karoline Leavitt
That initiative’s larger purpose—imposing order, simplicity and ostentation on ostentation itself—was emblematic of Trump’s preferred leadership style and personal branding. His over-the-top decor tastes revealed just how much he liked to flaunt his love of money. They represented who he was—and who his presidency was—for.
As Trump’s presidency came to a close, he did not leave without making profound and potentially damaging changes to the Oval Office. These conversions made a huge impact on the visitors and observers. He deeply personalized the raw space, creating a unique expression of presidential style. Combined with the use of historical artifacts, the authenticity brought a richness to the experience and place.