Preserving Washington, D.C. landmarks
The planning and stewardship of America's most significant national places must be transparent, lawful, and worthy of public trust. AIA is committed to ensuring that historic architectural landmarks in the nation's capital are responsibly stewarded and preserved for future generations.
AIA Joins Coalition Filing Amicus Brief to Protect White House
May 27, 2026
A coalition of national and local nonprofits filed an amicus brief supporting the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s lawsuit over the Trump Administration’s demolition of the White House East Wing and proposed new ballroom, arguing that the White House complex and President’s Park are protected federal property and that no president may undertake such demolition or construction there without express congressional approval.
Coalition of Cultural Heritage and Architecture Groups Sue to Require Federal Review of President Trump’s Kennedy Center Plans
March 23, 2026
AIA, joined by eight leading cultural heritage and architectural organizations, has filed suit in federal district court in Washington, DC, to compel the Trump administration to comply with historic preservation laws and obtain Congressional authorization before any further alterations to the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts proceed.
Timeline & advocacy update
January 9, 2026
AIA's advocacy on the White House East Ballroom project continues. Yesterday's NCPC informational presentation revealed additional details about the 89,000-square-foot structure, while Representative Jamie Raskin's proposed bill would establish more rigorous requirements for future modifications to federally owned historic buildings. Read where things stand and what comes next.
AIA statement on the demolition of the East Wing
October 24, 2025
After officials assured the public that the White House East Ballroom project would be "near it, but not touching it," the entire East Wing has been demolished—calling into question not only the preservation of historic architecture but the transparency and accountability that should govern changes to the People's House. AIA is urging a halt to further irreversible alterations.
AIA urges transparency and quality control on ballroom project
August 5, 2025
AIA has submitted formal recommendations to the Committee for the Preservation of the White House, urging a transparent, preservation-focused approach to the proposed $200 million East Ballroom addition. Drawing on its century-long role as guardian of the White House's architectural integrity, AIA outlined five key standards for the project.