Trump’s Proposed “Arc de Triomphe” Design to be Discussed by White House Committee

The forthcoming meeting of the White House Committee on Fine Arts (CFA) will decide the fate of the proposed 250-foot-tall “Arc de Triomphe,” a project endorsed by President Donald Trump. The official design proposals were finally unveiled on Friday, piquing public interest.

In a post on Truth Social, President Trump expressed his enthusiasm: “Today, I am pleased to announce that my administration has formally submitted its presentation and plans to the highly respected Fine Arts Commission for what will be the greatest and most beautiful Arc de Triomphe anywhere in the world.” He added that this project would be a cherished addition to the Washington, D.C. area for years to come.

Speculation around the design has been circulating since late last year, with various opinions appearing on social media prior to Friday’s official mock-up reveal, which was put together by the architecture firm Harrison Design.

Details about the Freedom 250 Grand Prix in D.C. were also shared by Trump administration officials during this time.

The mockup, a 12-page document available on the Fine Arts Commission’s website, illustrates an arch that will stand at a towering 250 feet—symbolizing the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary. To put this into perspective, the Lincoln Memorial is just 99 feet tall.

The central archway is designed to be around 110 feet high, providing a framed view of the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery across the Potomac River. The proposed site for the arch is strategically positioned between these landmarks, near the subway station at Arlington Cemetery.

This monument would be noticeably larger than any other in the capital, expected to dominate the skyline and streets nearby.

The current design features a striking figure reminiscent of the Statue of Liberty, complete with golden wings atop the arch, flanked by bald eagles that enhance the height of the structure. Notably, this differs from an earlier design shared by Trump in January, which was devoid of any decoration at the top.

One prominent feature in the latest design is the golden lettering that reads “ONE NATION UNDER GOD,” prominently displayed above the main archway in white stone.

Nicolas Charbonneau, the lead architect from Harrison Design, has a background in sacred architecture, mainly focusing on traditional designs. He remarked, “The world is ordered so that everything is in harmony,” adding that modern architecture often overlooks this principle.

In additional renderings, it’s been suggested that an internal staircase may lead to an observation deck for visitors. Four golden lions are set to adorn each corner of the arch.

The White House has reiterated its ambitions for this monument in earlier statements, emphasizing its intended impact as both a landmark in Washington D.C. and a symbol of national pride. It aims to enhance the experience for visitors to Arlington National Cemetery, serving as a tribute to American heroes throughout the nation’s history.

President Trump has emphasized the desire for the arch to be “the biggest” as a reflection of America’s stature as a great nation.

The Commission on Fine Arts, established in 1910, is made up of members chosen by the sitting president and provides expert advice on design and aesthetics to the government.

The CFA meeting is scheduled for Thursday morning in Washington, D.C.

All details about the design renderings can be found in the official packet linked on the Fine Arts Commission’s site.