President Trump Issues Executive Order for Beautification of Federal Buildings

President Trump has issued an executive order over the architecture of federal buildings. The president has previously voiced his disapproval over the ‘unappealing’ look he believes certain buildings possess that are meant to represent the U.S. The order signed yesterday looks to ensure the beautification of all federal buildings, courthouses, agency headquarters, public buildings and more costing in excess of $50 million within the Washington, D.C. area. While it does not define what exactly is considered beautiful, it does require buildings represent more classical architecture, such as Greek or Roman styles, as opposed to modern designs. The order also establishes the President’s Council on Improving Federal Civic Architecture. They’ll be solely tasked with overseeing the initiatives, submitting official reports and providing the president with advice for future buildings. While some look forward to the changes, there are still those who reject the new order. This includes the American Institute of Architects and other critics who believe the move is ‘undemocratic’. Fortunately for them, the order does not appear to have comprehensive and strong enough language to be able to move forward yet.