Trump Signs Executive Order Promoting “Beautiful” Federal Architecture
In a move aimed at reshaping the aesthetic landscape of federal buildings, newly inaugurated US president Donald Trump signed an executive order on Monday promoting the concept of “beautiful federal civic architecture.” The order emphasized the importance of visually identifiable and regionally respectful architectural designs in public spaces to ennoble the United States and its system of self-government.
Revocation of Previous Order and New Guidelines
This executive order marks a departure from the policies of Trump’s previous term, where neoclassical architecture was touted as the “preferred” style for federal buildings. The former administration condemned Brutalist and deconstructivist architectural styles, citing them as unappealing and subverting traditional architectural values. However, this stance was reversed by President Joe Biden in February 2021.
The new memorandum, in contrast to its predecessor, adopts a less forceful tone and calls for recommendations from the General Services Administration (GSA) and federal department heads on aligning federal architecture with the principles of regional, traditional, and classical heritage. Additionally, Trump’s recent push for federal employees to return to the office five days a week accompanies this directive.
Trump’s Vision for a New FBI Headquarters
Adding a personal touch to the issue, Trump expressed his desire to see the construction of a new FBI headquarters in Washington, D.C. despite the recent decision to relocate the agency to Maryland under the Biden administration. Trump envisions the new FBI building as a centerpiece of his plan to revitalize and beautify the nation’s capital, emphasizing the importance of having the agency in D.C. to combat violent crime effectively.
In a statement on his Truth social network, Trump highlighted the significance of the FBI’s presence in Washington, D.C. in his efforts to swiftly address violent crime. Despite the ongoing debate over the location of the new FBI headquarters, Trump remains committed to his vision of making the capital city the most beautiful and safest in the world.
