Van Hollen, Luján Reintroduce the Democracy in Design Act to Democratize Federal Architecture Design

Today, U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) reintroduced the Democracy in Design Act, legislation to preserve the Guiding Principles for Federal Architecture, which have been in place since the Kennedy Administration and allow state and local governments to design federal buildings reflecting the specific needs of their communities and the diverse cultures of their regions. The legislation comes following President Trump's August 28 executive order, directing the General Services Administration to default to classical and other traditional architecture styles when remodeling or constructing federal buildings around the country. U.S. Representative Dina Titus (D-Nev.-1) introduced the companion legislation in the House earlier this year.

"There should not be a one-size-fits-all mandate for the design of federal architecture. This legislation will help ensure that federal buildings reflect the diversity of our nation and the American people, and meet the needs of the communities they serve," said Senator Van Hollen.

"From our food to architecture, New Mexico is home to a rich history and culture that enriches our state," said Senator Luján. "Whether it's the adobe style architecture or the New Mexico State Capitol, our state's architecture is distinctly New Mexican and reflects the cultures of our state. Federal buildings should be the same way. That's why I'm proud to reintroduce this legislation to help ensure architectural designs in federal buildings are community-centered."

This legislation is supported by the American Institute of Architects.

"The Democracy in Design Act ensures that America's public buildings reflect the people they serve rather than conforming to a single mandated style. We commend Senator Van Hollen, Senator Luján, and Congresswoman Titus for their leadership in preserving democratic values in the design process and recognizing the vital role architects play in creating spaces that are inclusive, functional, and representative of our nation's character. By advancing this legislation, they are helping to ensure that architecture continues to tell the dynamic, inclusive, and authentic story of who we are as a nation," said 2025 AIA President, Evelyn Lee, FAIA

The text of the legislation is available here.