President Donald Trump has reignited a debate on the future of U.S. federal architecture by reinstating an executive order that mandates classical styles for new government buildings. Officially titled the Promoting Beautiful Federal Civic Architecture order, this directive prioritizes classical and traditional designs such as Neoclassicism, Greek Revival, and Georgian architecture over modernist styles like Brutalism and Deconstructivism.
The order was first introduced in December 2020 during Trump’s previous term and repealed by President Joe Biden in February 2021. Upon its reissuance, Trump emphasized the need for federal architecture to “uplift and beautify public spaces” while reflecting the dignity of civic institutions. Heads of federal agencies and the General Services Administration (GSA) are tasked with aligning future building projects to these principles and must submit recommendations within 60 days.
Supporters of the mandate, including traditionalist architectural organizations, argue that classical styles embody permanence, stability, and a connection to America’s cultural heritage. They believe such designs better represent the ideals of democracy and resonate with public admiration.
However, the move has faced staunch criticism from the architectural community. The American Institute of Architects (AIA) condemned the executive order, stating it undermines design innovation, imposes aesthetic preferences, and restricts local input. Robert Ivy, former AIA president, expressed concerns that the policy limits architects’ creative freedom and imposes rigid stylistic mandates that fail to address modern needs like sustainability and inclusivity.
Critics also highlight the cultural and political implications of promoting classical architecture, arguing it can serve as a coded nod to nationalist ideals. Reinhold Martin, a professor at Columbia University, described the order as “an effort to use culture to send coded messages about white supremacy and political hegemony.”
While the executive order requires adherence to classical principles, exceptions can be granted through bureaucratic review. The policy applies to federal courthouses, office buildings, and other major projects, though its long-term impact remains uncertain as future administrations may again reverse it.
This revival of the order has reignited debates about the role of architecture in reflecting national identity, balancing tradition and innovation, and addressing the functional needs of the modern era.
