With a new first family in the White House, many changes are occurring at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. On the lighter (perhaps even “golden”) side of change, are home furnishings and décor. Many wonder just how much the new POTUS and FLOTUS can—and should—change the historic furnishings at the nation’s most famous address.
In an interview with People magazine, now President Donald Trump indicated that he isn’t planning a major overhaul. “If I were elected, I would maybe touch it up a little bit, but the White House is a special place,” Trump said. “You don’t want to do too much touching.”
While historical rooms, such as the Lincoln Bedroom, are considered to be part of America’s history and off limits, the new First Family is allocated a budget and allowed to redecorate areas of the house to reflect their personal tastes. Much of this change happens in their living quarters, an area located on the second and third floors of the White House, which includes bedrooms and sitting rooms. The degree of change depends on the First Family but may include new furniture and artwork, with different items brought in from the white house collection, new purchases and/or the First Family’s own collection. Historically, the First Lady works with an interior designer of the family’s choice and a White House curator in infusing the family’s personal style while preserving the history of the 132-room mansion.
Want to add a presidential touch to your house? Here are some ideas for executive-level upgrades for different areas of your home. No curator required!