The American Institute Of Architects
Democracy in Design Act
BACKGROUND
In December 2020, the former president issued an executive order entitled
“Promoting Beautiful Federal Civic Architecture” (EO 13967), which created an
official preference for classical and traditional architecture for federal
courthouses and other buildings over $50 million. Shortly after taking office,
President Biden revoked Executive Order 13967.
The Democracy in Design Act is championed by AIA. Rep. Dina Titus (D-NV)
agreed to be the lead sponsor and introduce the bill during the 116
th
Congress
(2019-2020). The act prevents future federal mandates on architectural design
styles and gives a voice to local communities in determining their own
architectural and design needs.
AIA unequivocally opposes any attempt to mandate an official architectural
style for federal buildings.
WHAT IS THE DEMOCRACY IN DESIGN ACT?
The Democracy in Design Act is bipartisan. Rep. Mike Simpson (R-ID) and Rep.
Buddy Carter (R-GA) joined Rep. Titus as cosponsors in the 117
th
and 118
th
Congresses, respectively. In the US Senate, Sen. Van Hollen (D-MD) has introduced
a companion bill joined by Sen. Lujan (D-NM) and Sen. Mike Braun (R-IN).
The Democracy in Design Act codifies the US General Service Administration’s
“Guiding Principles for Federal Architecture” which prohibits a national design style
and encourages the government to avoid uniformity in building design. Furthermore,
the bill safeguards the GSA Design Excellence Program, increases transparency, and
allows the program to evolve to meet future needs.
The Democracy in Design Act promotes innovation. By respecting regional
design preferences, histories
,
and traditions, the bill encourages local architects
to find design solutions that fit their environment, make smart use of natural site
advantages, and embody community values.
WHY IS THE DEMOCRACY IN DESIGN ACT NEEDED NOW?
Without clear legislation, a future president or Congress could mandate any
architectural style that suits their personal preferences. The Democracy in Design
Act depoliticizes federal architecture, keeping decision-making in the hands of
individuals and communities rather than centralizing authority in Washington,
DC.
The Challenge
Mandating classical
and traditional
architecture as the
official preferred
style for federal
buildings stifles
innovation and
harms local
communities. By
preventing
individuals from
shaping their built
environment in ways
that reflect their
unique history,
character, and
aspirations, all style
mandates undermine
the American ideals
of independence and
self-determination.
The Ask
Support the
Democracy in Design
Act (HR 964/S 366)
by cosponsoring the
bill.
More Information
Alexander Cochran
AlexanderCochran@AIA.org
Anne Law
AnneLaw@AIA.org
Erin Waldron
ErinWaldron@AIA.org
