Summary
Makes classical and traditional styles the preferred architecture for new federal buildings to make them more beautiful and respected by the public.
What problem does this solve?
Many modern federal buildings are considered unappealing by the public and are not easily identified as civic buildings. This order directs the government to prefer classical and traditional designs that are more beautiful and command public respect.
Who does this affect?
- Architects and design firms
- General Services Administration (GSA) employees
- General public
What does this order do?
Establishes preferred architectural styles
Makes traditional and classical architecture the preferred styles for most new, large federal public buildings.
Sets a default style for Washington, D.C.
Requires classical architecture to be the default style for federal buildings in the District of Columbia unless there are exceptional reasons to use another style.
Defines which buildings are affected
Applies to all federal courthouses, agency headquarters, federal buildings in the D.C. area, and any other federal building project expected to cost more than $50 million.
Requires presidential notification for non-preferred designs
Forces the head of the General Services Administration (GSA) to notify the President 30 days before approving a design that is not in a preferred style, such as Brutalist or Deconstructivist.
Changes GSA staffing and procedures
Requires the GSA to hire staff with experience in classical architecture, including creating a new senior advisor position, and to give preference to firms with this experience.
Redefines whose opinion matters
Defines the 'general public' in a way that excludes the opinions of artists, architects, engineers, and art or architecture critics.
What is the real world impact?
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Stifles architectural creativity and innovation
Mandates a preference for older styles, which could discourage modern architects from participating in federal projects and limit the range of designs considered.
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Ignores architectural expertise
Defines the 'general public' to specifically exclude architects and critics, suggesting their professional opinions are less valued than popular taste.
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Promotes a specific political and cultural viewpoint
Favors styles from America's founding era, which may be seen as promoting a specific, traditionalist view of American identity and history through architecture.
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Aims to make public buildings more beautiful and inspiring
Seeks to replace unpopular modern designs with classical and traditional styles that the public finds more appealing and that better reflect the dignity of the government.
When does this start?
This order takes effect immediately on August 28, 2025, and includes a recurring deadline for certain actions.
Presidential notification for non-preferred designs
The GSA must inform the President at least 30 days before approving a building design that is not classical or traditional.