Trump’s idea to make federal buildings ‘great again’ is wrong – architecture should reflect our values

The president may want to leave a lasting legacy, but this is pure vanity, says Janet Street-Porter

Donald Trump has a plan for federal buildings across the US (EPA)

For centuries, world leaders have been seduced by the idea of building a legacy. Louis XIV, Hitler and Mussolini were all obsessed with endorsing an architectural style that reflected their philosophy... but Donald Trump?

Before he entered politics, the property mogul favoured gold, bling and flashy modernism for new hotels, office developments and casinos. However, now he’s in the White House – and seeking a second term in office – something more weighty is required to reinforce his values and ideals. In short, the president wants to build his way into the history books.

It’s reported that Trump is considering a draft executive order ordering new government buildings in the USA to be constructed in a classical style. The order, entitled “Make Federal Buildings Great Again” is part of a backlash against eye-catching buildings designed by so-called “starchitects”. The existing guidelines were drawn up in 1962, and stated that “design must flow from the architectural profession and not vice versa”. The profession is outraged, and has launched a campaign begging Trump to change his mind.

Prince Charles has long stated his love of neoclassicism and drew fury from British architects in 1984 when he described the proposed extension to the National Gallery in Trafalgar Square as “a carbuncle”. He got his way and the British design was replaced by bland neo-classicism. The prince went on to whinge that he “didn’t want the country to disappear under a welter of ugliness” but history has proved him wrong.

The best modern architecture reflects our age and our values. Turning the clock back in the USA by mandating one preferred (dead) architectural style would be shameful.