The ballroom project is expected to cost more than $250 million, which Trump says will be paid for by himself and donors.
The current ballroom, where official receptions are held, has a capacity for 200 people. Larger events are held in the White House courtyard under specially constructed canopies.
Democratic politicians have criticised the president’s plans, saying Trump’s priorities are far from those of most Americans.
A White House spokesman reminded critics of the renovation of White House facilities that the residence of the President of the United States has been renovated several times in the building’s more than 200-year history.
The last major modernisation of the building took place in the 1950s.
US: judge orders halt to construction of White House ballroom