The Biden Administration has reversed course on the Trump Administration’s policy on designs of federal buildings.
Biden recently overturned the previous president’s executive order, “Promoting Beautiful Federal Civic Architecture.” That policy promoted classical and traditional architecture above other designs and required extensive justification to use other styles.
“Overall, the mandate inappropriately elevated the design tastes of a few federal appointees over the communities in which the buildings would be placed,” according to an AIA news release. In February 2020, AIA members sent more than 11,400 letters to the White House opposing the classical architecture policy.
AIA advocates for The Democracy in Design Act, which would effectively thwart the Trump executive order by codifying the General Service Administration’s (GSA) Design Excellence Program principles. It would ensure that the federal government maintain neutrality on architectural styles, the release says.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Dec 21, 2021
Outdated and redundant building codes plague St. Louis area development
Region’s combined codes nearly double the length of the IRS Code.
Digital Twin | Dec 20, 2021
Groups ally to advance augmented reality and digital twin technology
AREA and Digital Twin Consortium to work on improving how technology components interoperate.
Codes and Standards | Dec 20, 2021
Tension rises in California over state’s push to build more housing
Attorney general hints at lawsuits against cities that don’t comply with zoning reform.
Codes and Standards | Dec 17, 2021
Tension rises in California over state’s push to build more housing
Attorney general hints at lawsuits against cities that don’t comply with zoning reform.
Codes and Standards | Dec 16, 2021
Home builders defeat proposed Oklahoma energy conservation code upgrade
Builders cite high home prices for opposition.
Codes and Standards | Dec 16, 2021
Laws and regulations complicate growth of community solar gardens
New projects stymied by utility resistance and legislative restrictions.
Codes and Standards | Dec 16, 2021
Property owners need systematic approach to GHG emissions reduction
Energy hog buildings at risk for becoming stranded assets.
Codes and Standards | Dec 15, 2021
Design problems now the primary cause of construction claims and disputes
More likely to occur due to more tight timescales imposed upon third parties engaged in design.
Codes and Standards | Dec 13, 2021
ABC releases guide to technology for improving safety performance
Provides details on how to identify, choose, and implement technology.
Codes and Standards | Dec 8, 2021
Construction industry is the top target for cyberattacks
Smart building tech is a new avenue for criminals.
