Making Federal Architecture Beautiful Again

Objective of the Order: Update policies guiding Federal architecture to ensure buildings inspire civic virtue and serve the American people effectively.

Historical Context:

• Emphasizes the Founders' intent for Federal buildings to reflect classical architecture and connect to democratic ideals.
• Notes the shift in architecture from classical to modern and brutalist styles in the 1960s, which faced public criticism.

Design Policy:

• Federal public buildings should:
  • Uplift and beautify public spaces.
  • Inspire citizens and be visually recognizable as civic structures.
  • Respect regional architectural heritage, with classical architecture as the preferred style.
• Care must be taken when diverging from preferred styles to ensure designs embody American values.

Definition of Terms:

• Applicable Federal public buildings: Includes courthouses, agency headquarters, and buildings over $50 million, excluding certain projects.
• Architectural Styles: Defines classical, brutalist, and deconstructivist architecture.

Guiding Principles for Federal Architecture:

• Emphasize dignity, stability, and regional reflection in design.
• Designs should prioritize the needs and aspirations of the American public.
• Necessary facilities should be designed with architectural excellence in mind.

General Services Administration (GSA) Directives:

• GSA to update policies according to this order.
• Ensure GSA architects have training or experience in classical architecture.
• Establish a senior advisor position specializing in classical design.
• Encourage participation from classical architecture firms in design competitions.
• Require Presidential notification for designs that diverge from preferred architecture.

Limitations and Implementations:

• The order does not diminish the authority of executive departments.
• Must be implemented consistent with applicable law and budget availability.
• Does not create enforceable rights against the U.S. government.