What does Preamble of Beautifying Federal Civic Architecture Act of 2025 do?

This bill is formally titled 'To prescribe Guiding Principles for Federal Architecture, and for other purposes.' The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on September 8, 2025.

What does SHORT TITLE. of Beautifying Federal Civic Architecture Act of 2025 do?

This bill is formally titled the Beautifying Federal Civic Architecture Act of 2025.

What does POLICY OF THE UNITED STATES. of Beautifying Federal Civic Architecture Act of 2025 do?

The U.S. policy is to design public buildings that uplift and beautify public spaces Designs should be selected with input from the local community Traditional and classical architecture are preferred for federal public buildings In the District of Columbia, classical architecture is the default Redesigns should consider the dignity and stability of the U.S. system of government Feasibility and expense of redesign should be examined for non-compliant buildings

What does DEFINITIONS. of Beautifying Federal Civic Architecture Act of 2025 do?

This section defines terms used throughout the Act. “2025 dollars” is defined as dollars adjusted for inflation using the Gross Domestic Product price deflator of the Bureau of Economic Analysis, with 2025 as the base year. The term “Administration” refers to the General Services Administration, and “Administrator” refers to the Administrator of General Services. “Applicable Federal public building” includes federal courthouses, agency headquarters, buildings in the National Capital region, and other buildings exceeding $50,000,000 in 2025 dollars, excluding infrastructure projects and land ports of entry. “Brutalist architecture” is characterized by a massive, block-like appearance with exposed poured concrete. “Classical architecture” is defined as deriving from Greek and Roman antiquity and developed by various architects across different eras. “Deconstructivist architecture” is characterized by fragmentation, disorder, and skewed geometry. The “general public” excludes artists, architects, engineers, critics, instructors, and those affiliated with building industry organizations. “Traditional architecture” includes classical architecture and historic humanistic styles like Gothic, Romanesque, and Pueblo Revival. “Public building” has the meaning defined in section 3301(a) of title 40, United States Code.

What does GUIDING PRINCIPLES FOR FEDERAL ARCHITECTURE. of Beautifying Federal Civic Architecture Act of 2025 do?

This section establishes Guiding Principles for Federal Architecture, referenced as the 'Guiding Principles' within the Act. Federal agencies are directed to adhere to these principles to the maximum extent practicable. The preferred architectural style is classical or traditional architecture, though alternative styles may be considered. Design should prioritize architectural excellence and incorporate regional architectural traditions. The design process should flow from government needs and public preferences, not from architectural trends. Agencies should avoid excessive uniformity in building design and consider design competitions. Site selection should be the initial step in the design process, done in cooperation with state and local agencies. Federal buildings should integrate well with surrounding streets and public spaces and allow for landscape development.

What does GSA REQUIREMENTS. of Beautifying Federal Civic Architecture Act of 2025 do?

The Administrator must adhere to the policy of the United States and the Guiding Principles. The Administrator must update policies and procedures to incorporate the policy and Guiding Principles. Architects reviewing Federal public buildings must have formal training or experience in classical or traditional architecture. A Senior Advisor for Architectural Design position must be established to assist in development and advise on architectural standards. Design competitions must actively recruit architectural firms and consider multiple design modes.

What does GENERAL PROVISIONS. of Beautifying Federal Civic Architecture Act of 2025 do?

This section establishes savings provisions, stating that the Act does not impair the authority of executive departments or agencies, or the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget. The Act's implementation is contingent upon applicable law and the availability of appropriations. The Act explicitly states that it does not create any enforceable rights or benefits against the United States, its departments, agencies, officers, employees, or agents.

What does ANNUAL REPORT TO CONGRESS. of Beautifying Federal Civic Architecture Act of 2025 do?

This section requires the Administrator to submit an annual report to specified congressional committees. The report must detail adherence to the policy of the United States described in section 2 and the Guiding Principles. The report pertains to the carrying out of this Act.

Back to bills

Beautifying Federal Civic Architecture Act of 2025

Last updated: 9/9/2025 · Introduced: 9/8/2025

Author: Kevin Kiley (R-CA)

TL;DR (AI)

This bill establishes a policy favoring classical and traditional architecture for new federal public buildings, with classical architecture as the default style in the District of Columbia.
Federal agencies are directed to adhere to 'Guiding Principles' emphasizing architectural excellence, incorporating regional traditions, and prioritizing public preferences over architectural trends.
The General Services Administration (GSA) must update its procedures to align with the new policy and Guiding Principles, including requiring architectural expertise in classical or traditional styles and establishing a Senior Advisor for Architectural Design.

119th Congressin committeeS. 2726(In Committee)Official page

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Includes provisions on preamble, short title., and 6 more.

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