update:
Trump never signed an executive order requiring new federal buildings to be classical in design. But the @USGSA is doing exactly that: New solicitations for federal courthouses include language copied and pasted from the classical-only mandate. https://t.co/U46odocBGx
— ◥◤.@kristoncapps (@kristoncapps) November 12, 2020
President Trump signed an executive order on Monday that mandates federal buildings be “beautiful” and praises the characteristics of Greco-Roman architecture. Recent modernist designs are described in the text as “ugly and inconsistent.” https://t.co/ol2iUVGWn9
— The New York Times (@nytimes) December 21, 2020
This is weakened from the original proposal and in any case is mostly symbolic, just a chance to lob another grenade on his way out the door. I don’t think it means too much. And unlike last-minute pardons, the next administration can mitigate its impact, or reverse it. https://t.co/EBUOKMTKTX
— Paul Goldberger (@paulgoldberger) December 21, 2020
They’re ready to control architecture, folks. Does this sound familiar? https://t.co/s51ptsEzCv
— Sherrilyn Ifill (@Sifill_LDF) February 6, 2020
i know the point of the White House proposal to ban modernist federal buildings is to trigger people like me, but i’m triggered! i don’t like the idea of dictating an architectural style. i like the fact that federal buildings look different in different parts of the country. https://t.co/8uHrc7H0rW
— b-boy bouiebaisse (@jbouie) February 6, 2020
The Eisenhower Executive Office Building was described by Mark Twain as "the ugliest building in America" and by Harry Truman as "the greatest monstrosity in America." The draft EO on classical architecture calls it "beautiful and beloved." pic.twitter.com/MhzZNzCbzv
— Amanda Kolson Hurley (@amandakhurley) February 7, 2020
It’s puzzling that you find this so benign when even advocates of classical architecture, as well as historic preservationists, find the notion of an official, mandated government architecture style to be troubling. And quality is not a function of stylistic choice. https://t.co/tA5twk600W
— Paul Goldberger (@paulgoldberger) February 7, 2020
Sad! 