WASHINGTON, DC — The American Institute of Architects (AIA) today announced a transformative $4 million matching commitment to the Architects Foundation in support of the comprehensive renewal of The Octagon, the 225-year-old National Historic Landmark that is among the most historically and architecturally significant intact Federal buildings in Washington, D.C., just one block from the White House.
The matching pledge, the largest single commitment in the Architects Foundation’s history, reflects AIA’s continued investment in preserving one of American’s most significant architectural landmarks. The commitment will match contributions, as part of the Foundation’s early planning for The Octagon’s future.
A Zenith of Federal Architecture
Designed by Dr. William Thornton, architect of the U.S. Capitol, The Octagon is among the oldest private buildings in Washington. It served as the official residence for President James Madison and First Lady Dolley Madison during the War of 1812, and was the location where the President signed the Treaty of Ghent to end the war.
AIA purchased the building in 1902, and the organization’s comprehensive rehabilitation was among the first major preservation projects in the United States, establishing important precedents for historic building conservation. Since 2006, the Architects Foundation has stewarded it as a public museum and community space serving thousands of visitors annually.
“AIA’s Board made this decision because some buildings are too important to leave to chance,” said Stephen Ayers, Interim Executive Vice President and CEO of AIA. “This investment honors our profession’s heritage and ensures The Octagon remains a vital part of America’s architectural story.”
Planning for the Future
The Octagon requires essential infrastructure upgrades to remain viable as a museum and gathering place. The Foundation is in the early planning stages for a comprehensive renewal that will address deferred maintenance while positioning The Octagon as the historic anchor of the AIA Global Campus for Architecture and Design, opening January 2026.
The Foundation is also the recipient of a $749,723 National Park Service grant, connecting The Octagon’s preservation to the nation’s Semiquincentennial celebration. All work will follow the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards in partnership with the National Trust for Historic Preservation and U.S. Commission of Fine Arts.
“This is a pivotal moment for The Octagon,” said Jennifer Calvert Hall, Executive Director of the Architects Foundation. “At 225 years old, this building is both an artifact of American architecture and a beacon for its future.”
The Architects Foundation expects to share more details about The Octagon’s renewal plans in the coming months.
About the Architects Foundation
The Architects Foundation is the philanthropic partner of the American Institute of Architects. Through scholarships, community design programs, and stewardship of The Octagon Museum, the Foundation advances architecture’s capacity to strengthen communities and inspire civic life. Learn more at architectsfoundation.org.
Media Contact:
Celia Carnes, celia@architectsfoundation.org
