S. 2726: Beautifying Federal Civic Architecture Act of 2025

The Beautifying Federal Civic Architecture Act of 2025 aims to establish guiding principles for the design and construction of federal public buildings in the United States. The main objectives of the bill include:

Purpose of the Act

• Enhance the aesthetic quality of federal buildings to uplift public spaces, inspire communities, and reflect the dignity of the United States.
• Ensure buildings are identifiable as civic structures and respect local architectural heritage.
• Prioritize input from local communities in the design process.

Design Preferences

The Act specifies that:

• Traditional and classical architecture is preferred for federal buildings, especially in the District of Columbia.
• In cases where alternative designs are proposed, they must also command respect and convey the values of self-governance.
• Any building renovation or expansion should explore the possibility of redesigning to meet these criteria.

Definitions

Key terms defined in the Act include:

• Applicable Federal Public Building: Federal courthouses, agency headquarters, buildings in the National Capital region, and other public buildings costing over $50 million.
• Preferred Architecture: Traditional and classical forms of architecture.
• Brutalist and Deconstructivist Architecture: Styles characterized by stark geometries and often perceived as lacking warmth or respect for human scale are to be approached with caution.

Guiding Principles for Federal Architecture

The following principles must be adhered to by federal agencies when designing buildings:

• Emphasize architectural excellence and reflect the regional traditions.
• Incorporate fine art into designs wherever appropriate.
• Ensure buildings are economical to maintain and accessible to all individuals, including those with disabilities.
• Seek to avoid uniformity by considering various design options, including holding competitions for different design proposals.

Administrative Responsibilities

The General Services Administration (GSA) is tasked with:

• Implementing the principles outlined in the Act by updating policies and practices.
• Employing architects with experience in classical or traditional architecture.
• Establishing a specific advisor position focused on architectural design.

Notification for Design Divergence

If a design diverging from preferred styles (such as Brutalist or Deconstructivist) is proposed, an explanation must be submitted to relevant authorities justifying the choice, including:

• The reasons for selecting that design over traditional options.
• The estimated costs for implementing and maintaining the design.
• Details of alternative designs considered.

Implementation and Reporting

The Act will be implemented according to applicable laws and available funding. An annual report will be submitted detailing how the Act's policies and principles are being followed.

General Provisions

The Act reaffirms that it does not create any new rights enforceable by individuals against the federal government, and it does not affect existing authorities held by executive branches or the Office of Management and Budget.

Relevant Companies

• BA (Boeing Co.): As a major player in construction and infrastructure, Boeing could be impacted by changes in federal building contracts.
• FLR (Fluor Corporation): As a construction and engineering company, Fluor may see changes in federal building project opportunities associated with the new architectural guidelines.
• PKG (Packaging Corporation of America): This company may be affected through materials supply for new construction or renovations of federal buildings.