# Meet the mastermind behind Trump’s war on modern architecture
The Return of Classical Architecture: A Debate on Federal Buildings
In a move that has sparked considerable debate within the architectural community, an executive order under President Trump’s administration has reignited the conversation around the architectural style of federal buildings. This order, influenced significantly by Justin Shubow, president of the National Civic Art Society (NCAS), calls for classical and traditional architecture to be the preferred styles for U.S. federal buildings and courthouses. This decision has highlighted the ongoing tension between modernist and classical architectural styles in the context of American democracy.
# The Role of Justin Shubow and the NCAS
Justin Shubow, a passionate advocate for classical architecture, has long argued that the aesthetic of American federal buildings has deviated from the classical styles that the Founding Fathers originally embraced. Since joining the NCAS in 2011, Shubow has been vocal about his belief that modernist architecture has dominated federal building design for too long, despite public preference for classical styles that are seen as symbolic of democracy. His advocacy culminated in the executive order that could significantly influence the design of future federal buildings.
The NCAS, founded in 2002, aims to promote classical architecture, which is characterized by its use of columns, pediments, and symmetry—elements that have historically represented government and democratic ideals. Shubow’s tenacity in pushing for this architectural style reflects his belief that modernist designs, often seen in brutalist and deconstructivist forms, fail to inspire and connect with the public in the same way.
# The Debate: Classical vs. Modernist Architecture
The executive order has been met with opposition from bodies like the American Institute of Architects (AIA), which argues that the directive limits architectural choice and disregards the natural evolution of design. The AIA emphasizes that each era of American architecture has built upon the past while addressing contemporary needs through diverse design solutions. They argue that restricting federal architecture to classical styles ignores this evolution and the potential for innovative, community-serving designs.
Critics of the order, including some within the architectural community, worry that aligning classical architecture so closely with Trump’s administration could politicize the style, potentially framing it as a symbol of his divisive MAGA movement. This association risks overshadowing the merits of classical architecture and alienating those who might otherwise support it.
# The Influence of Political and Cultural Dynamics
The executive order’s timing and Trump’s interest in classical architecture have raised questions about its motivations. While Shubow and the NCAS see it as a victory for classical design, others view it as a political maneuver to ignite cultural debates. The style’s association with conservatism and Trump’s platform has caused concern among some classical architecture advocates, who fear it may hinder the broader acceptance and appreciation of the style.
Despite these concerns, Shubow remains focused on his mission to bring classical architecture back to the forefront of federal design. He believes that showcasing new federal buildings in classical styles will demonstrate the shortcomings of modernist designs and validate the executive order’s intentions.
# The Future of Federal Building Design
The impact of the executive order on future federal buildings remains uncertain. While it has the potential to influence the design of upcoming projects, its longevity may depend on political shifts and the possibility of legislative action. The order represents a significant moment in the ongoing debate over architectural styles and their role in reflecting and shaping democratic ideals.
In conclusion, the executive order advocating for classical architecture in federal buildings highlights a broader discussion about the role of architecture in representing national identity and values. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how this directive will shape the future of American federal design and whether it will lead to a lasting legacy of classical architecture in the nation’s capital and beyond.
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