President Trump may be about to leave office, but his policies on the design of federal buildings are likely to be felt for at least a few more years.
Trump signed an executive order setting a new standard for federal architecture on Dec. 21. The edict denounces modernism and promotes classical design for federal buildings.
Trump also appointed four new appointees to the U.S. Commission on Fine Arts, the independent federal agency that oversees design and aesthetic decisions in Washington, D.C. All of the new commissioners are steeped in classical European sensibilities. Trump also appointed another classical architect to the National Capital Planning Commission, another Washington, D.C., oversight body.
Trump’s executive order will open federal procurement possibilities for stylistically conservative architects who might not win bids on their own merits otherwise, according to an article at Bloomberg.com. It could be a boon for the relatively small number of firms that specialize in classical design, and reduce opportunities for federal contracts for other firms, the report said.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Dec 28, 2020
2021 Defense Authorization Act includes mass timber provision
Directs defense, agriculture secretaries to review potential for wood frame construction on defense building projects.
Codes and Standards | Dec 28, 2020
New York City proposal would require rainwater detention tanks for new development
Rule would apply to projects on lots sized 20,000 sf or larger.
Codes and Standards | Dec 17, 2020
Energy efficiency as a service gaining ground as financing approach for adopting innovations
Building owners can invest in new technology with no upfront cost.
Codes and Standards | Dec 16, 2020
Resources available to address Legionella threat
Buildings reopened after extended pandemic closure are at risk.
Codes and Standards | Dec 16, 2020
New Specifications for Concrete Construction reference manual released
Scope expanded to include shotcrete, internal curing, mineral fillers, and recycled concrete aggregates.
Codes and Standards | Dec 15, 2020
Despite COVID-19 population flight, don’t write off big cities yet
Lure of urban life and jobs may draw people back after pandemic subsides.
Codes and Standards | Dec 10, 2020
Test method for vertical fenestration installation procedures updated
FGIA issues first update for document created in 2005.
Codes and Standards | Dec 10, 2020
Updated EPDs for Polyiso Roof and Wall Insulation; EPD for Polyiso High-Density Cover Boards published
Cover Boards EPD is an industry first.
Codes and Standards | Dec 9, 2020
Newly formed Rainscreen Association aims to be recognized authority on rainscreen assemblies
Will address innovations in material performance and building designs.
Codes and Standards | Dec 9, 2020
Investors want building resiliency plans and risk mitigation practices
Owners should assess risk, insurance coverage, and ability to withstand disasters.