Become a member of The Octagon Alliance

Be part of a storied past and a powerful future. By becoming a member, you’ll support the Architects Foundation’s mission to attract, inspire, and invest in the next generation design community including supporting activities at our place of inspiration, The Octagon.

Located at 1799 New York Avenue, The Octagon has been closely tied to our nation’s history since its construction began in 1799. The building was designed by the first architect of the United States Capitol, William Thornton, and served for six months as the White House after the 1814 Burning of Washington.

Recognizing The Octagon’s national importance, The American Institute of Architects (AIA) established its national headquarters on-site in 1898 and restored the building as one of the country’s earliest preservation projects. Now owned by the Architects Foundation (AF), The Octagon serves as a beacon in the Nation’s Capital for the Architects Foundation’s work as the philanthropic partner of the AIA to promote a just, equitable, diverse and inclusive profession.

Members ($17.99 / YR)

  • unlimited free admission ($10 ticket value)
  • discounted tickets to all exhibit openings, lectures, and programs**
  • recognition on website and event materials

Changemakers ($179.90 / YR, $14.99 / MO)

  • above benefits, plus early access to all exhibit openings, lectures and programs**
  • one private tour for up to 10 people (advance reservation required)

Beginning in 2024, members at the Champions level and above also receive reciprocal membership through NARM to a variety of other museums nationwide, as well as many museums in the Washington, DC area. More information on NARM benefits and participating museums can be found on their website, https://narmassociation.org/. Please note: you must present your Octagon Alliance membership card with NARM sticker at participating museums for reciprocity.

Champions ($1,799 / YR, $149.90 / MO)

  • above benefits, plus one space rental use of The Octagon for up to 40 people ($2,500 value)
  • NARM membership card and reciprocal membership to other local NARM member institutions

Caretakers (donations of $1,000+ / YR)

  • The full amount of the gift goes directly to support The Octagon’s maintenance and programming and not to membership benefits. Caretakers will be recognized annually on digital and print materials
  • NARM membership card and reciprocal membership to other local NARM member institutions

**Events and programs are subject to change at the discretion of the Architects Foundation and are reserved on a first-come, first-serve basis

Become a member today >

Support The Octagon as a non-member with a fully tax-deductible one-time or recurring donation to The Octagon’s Annual Fund >

The Octagon serves as a beacon in the Nation’s Capital for the Architects
Foundation’s work—the philanthropic partner of AIA—to promote a just,
equitable, diverse, and inclusive profession.
– R. Steven Lewis, FAIA
2021-22 Architects Foundation President