The American Institute of Architects (AIA) announced a $4 million matching grant to benefit the Architects Foundation. This transformative gift underscores AIA’s dedication to safeguarding architectural heritage through the comprehensive rehabilitation of The Octagon, the 225-year-old National Historic Landmark anchoring the AIA Global Campus for Architecture & Design in Washington, D.C. 

AIA’s commitment builds on a $749,723 semiquincentennial grant from the National Park Service, creating a powerful foundation for The Octagon’s comprehensive renewal. Together, these investments will leverage additional philanthropic support to complete essential upgrades that ensure The Octagon’s continued service as a museum and center for design, preservation, and sustainability. The matching opportunity applies to all contributions to the Architects Foundation until it is met.

“This project connects our nation’s architectural heritage to its future,” said Evelyn Lee, FAIA, 2025 AIA President. “Renewing The Octagon reinforces our commitment to design that endures, both in structure and in spirit.”

“AIA has called The Octagon home for more than a century,” said Stephen Ayers, FAIA, Interim CEO of AIA. “Our investment ensures this building, where presidents once lived and treaties were signed, will continue to inspire future generations.”

A Landmark of American History

Built in 1799 by Dr. William Thornton, the first Architect of the U.S. Capitol, The Octagon served as a refuge for President James Madison and First Lady Dolley Madison after the burning of the White House in 1814, where the President signed the Treaty of Ghent ending the War of 1812.

AIA purchased The Octagon in 1902, launching one of the nation’s first major preservation efforts. Designated a National Historic Landmark in 1960 and opened as a museum in 1970; it remains one of only three presidential residences still standing today, alongside the White House and Blair House.

Renewal and Vision

The project will comprehensively rehabilitate The Octagon while upgrading systems to meet modern standards for accessibility, safety, and energy efficiency, reducing energy use by more than 50 percent.

When complete, The Octagon will reopen as a reimagined national museum for architecture and design. Together with the renewed AIA Headquarters, it will anchor the new AIA Global Campus for Architecture & Design, which will officially open to the public in January 2026. The campus will include a welcome center, exhibitions, a design shop, and café, helping visitors explore how architecture shapes our lives. The project also aims to make the Octagon the oldest LEED-certified building in the United States.

Partnership and Preservation

The renewal will be guided by the Architects Foundation in collaboration with AIA leadership, the National Trust for Historic Preservation, the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts, and other partners. Work will follow the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties to ensure authenticity and resilience.

“This matching grant reflects our commitment to make The Octagon a model of sustainable preservation," said Dan Kirby, FAIA, Chair, Architects Foundation Board of Directors. "Our work proves that preservation and progress can coexist. We're investing in The Octagon's long-term future while respectfully caring for this historic treasure.”

To learn more about contributing to The Octagon renewal or other Architects Foundation programs, visit architectsfoundation.org or contact Executive Director, Jennifer Calvert Hall at jennifer@architectsfoundation.org.