Promoting Beautiful Federal Civic Architecture

What it means

Establishes classical and traditional architecture as the preferred design style for federal buildings, particularly in Washington D.C. The order criticizes modernist designs and creates a council to update design policies for federal buildings.

Expected impact

• Federal buildings will likely feature more classical design elements rather than modernist or brutalist styles
• Local communities may have more input in architectural decisions for federal buildings in their areas
• Potentially higher construction costs for new federal buildings that must adhere to classical design standards
• Greater visual consistency among federal buildings, especially in Washington D.C.
• Some architects may oppose the restrictions on contemporary design approaches