Historic Resources Committee

Dear HRC membership,

As chair of the HRC Advisory Group, I've been watching the conversations on the HRC Community Hub regarding the demolition of the White House East Wing and the proposed construction of the large ballroom addition with great interest. Although I have to believe most of the HRC membership would take issue with the lack of transparency and due process followed by the administration in undertaking this project, it appears the facts of the matter are that the White House-a National Historic Landmark-is not legally protected from alterations of the scale and scope of what is currently underway.

While many of us personally might come to a different conclusion than McCrery Architects with regard to accepting the ballroom commission, the liberty to choose to accept a controversial commission is not one I would feel comfortable abridging for any of our membership. The HRC is 9,600 members strong; the AIA has close to 100,000 members. We have a diversity of experiences and opinions, and architects will always find issues about which to vigorously debate.

As you well know, the AIA, in consultation with the HRC Advisory Group, issued a statement in August advising the administration to follow customary review and approval processes for the ballroom project. In October, as demolition of the East Wing got underway, the AIA issued a further statement condemning the destruction. The AIA Public Policy and Government Relations Group is our organization's lead on matters of public policy. As AIA members, I encourage you to make your feelings known directly to them, as well as to the AIA Board and Strategic Council.

how does one contact the The AIA Public Policy and Government Relations Group ?

------------------------------
Thomas Gray AIA
DRS Architects, Inc.
Pittsburgh PA

Original Message:
Sent: 11-04-2025 04:22 PM
From: Robert Burns, AIA
Subject: White House Demolition and Ballroom Project

Dear HRC membership,

As chair of the HRC Advisory Group, I've been watching the conversations on the HRC Community Hub regarding the demolition of the White House East Wing and the proposed construction of the large ballroom addition with great interest. Although I have to believe most of the HRC membership would take issue with the lack of transparency and due process followed by the administration in undertaking this project, it appears the facts of the matter are that the White House-a National Historic Landmark-is not legally protected from alterations of the scale and scope of what is currently underway.

While many of us personally might come to a different conclusion than McCrery Architects with regard to accepting the ballroom commission, the liberty to choose to accept a controversial commission is not one I would feel comfortable abridging for any of our membership. The HRC is 9,600 members strong; the AIA has close to 100,000 members. We have a diversity of experiences and opinions, and architects will always find issues about which to vigorously debate.

As you well know, the AIA, in consultation with the HRC Advisory Group, issued a statement in August advising the administration to follow customary review and approval processes for the ballroom project. In October, as demolition of the East Wing got underway, the AIA issued a further statement condemning the destruction. The AIA Public Policy and Government Relations Group is our organization's lead on matters of public policy. As AIA members, I encourage you to make your feelings known directly to them, as well as to the AIA Board and Strategic Council.

------------------------------
Robert Burns, AIA
2025 Chair
Historic Resources Committee Advisory Group
Richmond, VA
------------------------------

Dear HRC membership,

As chair of the HRC Advisory Group, I've been watching the conversations on the HRC Community Hub regarding the demolition of the White House East Wing and the proposed construction of the large ballroom addition with great interest. Although I have to believe most of the HRC membership would take issue with the lack of transparency and due process followed by the administration in undertaking this project, it appears the facts of the matter are that the White House-a National Historic Landmark-is not legally protected from alterations of the scale and scope of what is currently underway.

While many of us personally might come to a different conclusion than McCrery Architects with regard to accepting the ballroom commission, the liberty to choose to accept a controversial commission is not one I would feel comfortable abridging for any of our membership. The HRC is 9,600 members strong; the AIA has close to 100,000 members. We have a diversity of experiences and opinions, and architects will always find issues about which to vigorously debate.

As you well know, the AIA, in consultation with the HRC Advisory Group, issued a statement in August advising the administration to follow customary review and approval processes for the ballroom project. In October, as demolition of the East Wing got underway, the AIA issued a further statement condemning the destruction. The AIA Public Policy and Government Relations Group is our organization's lead on matters of public policy. As AIA members, I encourage you to make your feelings known directly to them, as well as to the AIA Board and Strategic Council.

------------------------------
Robert Burns, AIA
2025 Chair
Historic Resources Committee Advisory Group
Richmond, VA
------------------------------

Robert, I'm happy that you finally chimed in on this discussion.  I'm still waiting for the Fellows of the AIA to become part of this discussion. 

I disagree with you concerning the legality of the destruction of the "People's House".  First, there was no remediation in concern with abatement of asbestos and other hazardous materials.  The White House has claimed there was abatement in September, but this President has lied over 30,573 times in his first term and there has been no proof of such action.  The president promised that his new ballroom "…will be near it (East Wing), but not touching it and it will pay total respect to the existing building." President Trump destroyed the East Wing of the White House last week - even while members of Congress dined in his paved-over "Rose Garden Club.This happened while the federal government was shut down - a "Let them eat cake" moment. It is illegal to conduct demolition when known hazardous materials are present per Federal and State regulations.  The public must be protected during abatement.  It will be interesting in the future how many lawsuits are brought against the White House concerning this exposure and the cases of Asbestosis.  I've seen a photo of Republican Congress members sitting in the paved over Rose Garden as Trump speaks and the East Wing is being demolished in the background. They should have stopped the destruction and they might pay for their inaction in the future with their health and maybe even lives.

Second illegal action was the President's firing of members of the National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC) and placing his own sycophants in place of reputable people.  The current members of the NCPC are:  Trumps Appointees: William Scharf (At-Large), Assistant to the President and White House Secretary (conflict?); Stuart Levenbach, a policy analyst in the White House Office of Management and Budget's Office of Information and Regulatory Affair (conflict?);  Michael James Blair is the White House deputy chief of staff for legislative, political and public affairs since 2025 (conflict?); Mayor of the District of Columbia Appointees: Arrington Dixon, Council of the District of Columbia; Linda Argo, DC; Ex officio Members: Pete Hegseth, Secretary of War (conflict?); Doug Burgum, Secretary of the Interior (conflict?); Michael Rigas, Acting Administrator of GSA (conflict?); Rand Paul (R) Senator (conflict?); James Comer House Rep (R) (conflict?); Muriel Bowser, Mayor of DC; and finally Phil Mendelson, Chairman, Council of the District of Columbia. So, contrary to Allen Stewart's (participant in this discussion who is all for the destruction of the East Wing) contention that DC has no jurisdiction and that it can't be a damaged plaintiff is untrue.  Still, Trumps members outnumber the others 8 to 4, so the president will get whatever he wants through his rigging of the Commission. The last time the NCPC met was on July 10, 2025, although they should have met according to their schedule on September 4, October 9 and are scheduled to meet on November 6.  Covering up the truth-I think so.

Thirdly, the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts and have all been dismissed by Trump.  Billie Tsien was the Chair of a reputable Commission.  It won't be pleasant to see who Trump appoints to this commission now since all the positions are marked "Vacant".  This is just another way Trump has distorted the playing field when it comes to those who would halt or forestall the abomination of the new out-of-scale atrocious ballroom addition.  Many of the Commission members including the Chair still had years left in their terms.  This is just as illegal as all the firings this Administration has conducted through DOGE and currently during this Federal Government shutdown.

Fourthly, there have been illegal actions taken by James McCrery, AIA who has reportedly given this regime the okay to tear down the building because the new ballroom wouldn't fit with the East Wing still intact as the President had promised.  He knew that to do so was illegal and not warning the public of the impending demolition without abatement of hazardous materials was not keeping the Health, Safety & Welfare of the public protected.

And finally, I want to make this perfectly clear that I wish no ill on James McCrery, AIA.  I just believe that this effort will slow down the further destruction of the White House, the People's House.  Mr. McCrery needs to know that the American Architectural Community believes that what is happening to the White House and the way that this despicable act of the destruction of the People's House has proceeded is wrong.  The depiction of what this out of scale ballroom addition will do to the remaining White House is atrocious and needs to be stopped.  No Architect should be willing to design this disaster and Mr. McCrery should reverse course and bow out of the design.

I've researched the AIA Code of Ethics & Professional Conduct and believe that James McCrery has violated the following Rules:  

ULE 1.402: Members shall not engage in conduct involving wanton disregard of the rights of others.

RULE 2.101: Members shall not, in the conduct of their professional practice, knowingly violate the law.

RULE 2.106: Members shall not counsel or assist a client in conduct that the architect knows, or reasonably should know, is fraudulent or illegal.

RULE 2.401: When performing professional services, Members shall make reasonable efforts to inform their clients of the potential environmental impacts or consequences the Members reasonably believes may occur as a result of work performed on behalf of the clients.

RULE 3.101: In performing professional services, Members shall take into account applicable laws and regulations. Members may rely on the advice of other qualified persons as to the intent and meaning of such regulations.

RULE 3.102: Members shall undertake to perform professional services only when they, together with those whom they may engage as consultants, are qualified by education, training, or experience in the specific technical areas involved.

RULE 3.201: Members shall not render professional services if the Member's professional judgment could be affected by responsibilities to another project or person, or by the Member's own interests, unless all those who rely on the Member's judgment consent after full disclosure.

I think it way past time that the National AIA take a stand on this issue and vote to possibly censure and remove James McCrery from this organization for his actions and inactions.  I've responded to Stephen Ayers, FAIA tepid response to the AIA Architectural Historic Resources Committee's discussion but as yet I haven't heard back.  History will judge those who don't take a stand poorly and those who do on this issue with honor.

As I've said before and I'll say it again:  If not us, then who?  If not now, then when?

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 11-04-2025 04:22 PM
From: Robert Burns, AIA
Subject: White House Demolition and Ballroom Project

Dear HRC membership,

As chair of the HRC Advisory Group, I've been watching the conversations on the HRC Community Hub regarding the demolition of the White House East Wing and the proposed construction of the large ballroom addition with great interest. Although I have to believe most of the HRC membership would take issue with the lack of transparency and due process followed by the administration in undertaking this project, it appears the facts of the matter are that the White House-a National Historic Landmark-is not legally protected from alterations of the scale and scope of what is currently underway.

While many of us personally might come to a different conclusion than McCrery Architects with regard to accepting the ballroom commission, the liberty to choose to accept a controversial commission is not one I would feel comfortable abridging for any of our membership. The HRC is 9,600 members strong; the AIA has close to 100,000 members. We have a diversity of experiences and opinions, and architects will always find issues about which to vigorously debate.

As you well know, the AIA, in consultation with the HRC Advisory Group, issued a statement in August advising the administration to follow customary review and approval processes for the ballroom project. In October, as demolition of the East Wing got underway, the AIA issued a further statement condemning the destruction. The AIA Public Policy and Government Relations Group is our organization's lead on matters of public policy. As AIA members, I encourage you to make your feelings known directly to them, as well as to the AIA Board and Strategic Council.

------------------------------
Robert Burns, AIA
2025 Chair
Historic Resources Committee Advisory Group
Richmond, VA
------------------------------

The current episode of South Park even has the East Wing Demolition of the White House.

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 11-04-2025 07:13 PM
From: Samuel Combs, AIA
Subject: White House Demolition and Ballroom Project

Robert, I'm happy that you finally chimed in on this discussion.  I'm still waiting for the Fellows of the AIA to become part of this discussion. 

I disagree with you concerning the legality of the destruction of the "People's House".  First, there was no remediation in concern with abatement of asbestos and other hazardous materials.  The White House has claimed there was abatement in September, but this President has lied over 30,573 times in his first term and there has been no proof of such action.  The president promised that his new ballroom "…will be near it (East Wing), but not touching it and it will pay total respect to the existing building." President Trump destroyed the East Wing of the White House last week - even while members of Congress dined in his paved-over "Rose Garden Club.This happened while the federal government was shut down - a "Let them eat cake" moment. It is illegal to conduct demolition when known hazardous materials are present per Federal and State regulations.  The public must be protected during abatement.  It will be interesting in the future how many lawsuits are brought against the White House concerning this exposure and the cases of Asbestosis.  I've seen a photo of Republican Congress members sitting in the paved over Rose Garden as Trump speaks and the East Wing is being demolished in the background. They should have stopped the destruction and they might pay for their inaction in the future with their health and maybe even lives.

Second illegal action was the President's firing of members of the National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC) and placing his own sycophants in place of reputable people.  The current members of the NCPC are:  Trumps Appointees: William Scharf (At-Large), Assistant to the President and White House Secretary (conflict?); Stuart Levenbach, a policy analyst in the White House Office of Management and Budget's Office of Information and Regulatory Affair (conflict?);  Michael James Blair is the White House deputy chief of staff for legislative, political and public affairs since 2025 (conflict?); Mayor of the District of Columbia Appointees: Arrington Dixon, Council of the District of Columbia; Linda Argo, DC; Ex officio Members: Pete Hegseth, Secretary of War (conflict?); Doug Burgum, Secretary of the Interior (conflict?); Michael Rigas, Acting Administrator of GSA (conflict?); Rand Paul (R) Senator (conflict?); James Comer House Rep (R) (conflict?); Muriel Bowser, Mayor of DC; and finally Phil Mendelson, Chairman, Council of the District of Columbia. So, contrary to Allen Stewart's (participant in this discussion who is all for the destruction of the East Wing) contention that DC has no jurisdiction and that it can't be a damaged plaintiff is untrue.  Still, Trumps members outnumber the others 8 to 4, so the president will get whatever he wants through his rigging of the Commission. The last time the NCPC met was on July 10, 2025, although they should have met according to their schedule on September 4, October 9 and are scheduled to meet on November 6.  Covering up the truth-I think so.

Thirdly, the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts and have all been dismissed by Trump.  Billie Tsien was the Chair of a reputable Commission.  It won't be pleasant to see who Trump appoints to this commission now since all the positions are marked "Vacant".  This is just another way Trump has distorted the playing field when it comes to those who would halt or forestall the abomination of the new out-of-scale atrocious ballroom addition.  Many of the Commission members including the Chair still had years left in their terms.  This is just as illegal as all the firings this Administration has conducted through DOGE and currently during this Federal Government shutdown.

Fourthly, there have been illegal actions taken by James McCrery, AIA who has reportedly given this regime the okay to tear down the building because the new ballroom wouldn't fit with the East Wing still intact as the President had promised.  He knew that to do so was illegal and not warning the public of the impending demolition without abatement of hazardous materials was not keeping the Health, Safety & Welfare of the public protected.

And finally, I want to make this perfectly clear that I wish no ill on James McCrery, AIA.  I just believe that this effort will slow down the further destruction of the White House, the People's House.  Mr. McCrery needs to know that the American Architectural Community believes that what is happening to the White House and the way that this despicable act of the destruction of the People's House has proceeded is wrong.  The depiction of what this out of scale ballroom addition will do to the remaining White House is atrocious and needs to be stopped.  No Architect should be willing to design this disaster and Mr. McCrery should reverse course and bow out of the design.

I've researched the AIA Code of Ethics & Professional Conduct and believe that James McCrery has violated the following Rules:  

ULE 1.402: Members shall not engage in conduct involving wanton disregard of the rights of others.

RULE 2.101: Members shall not, in the conduct of their professional practice, knowingly violate the law.

RULE 2.106: Members shall not counsel or assist a client in conduct that the architect knows, or reasonably should know, is fraudulent or illegal.

RULE 2.401: When performing professional services, Members shall make reasonable efforts to inform their clients of the potential environmental impacts or consequences the Members reasonably believes may occur as a result of work performed on behalf of the clients.

RULE 3.101: In performing professional services, Members shall take into account applicable laws and regulations. Members may rely on the advice of other qualified persons as to the intent and meaning of such regulations.

RULE 3.102: Members shall undertake to perform professional services only when they, together with those whom they may engage as consultants, are qualified by education, training, or experience in the specific technical areas involved.

RULE 3.201: Members shall not render professional services if the Member's professional judgment could be affected by responsibilities to another project or person, or by the Member's own interests, unless all those who rely on the Member's judgment consent after full disclosure.

I think it way past time that the National AIA take a stand on this issue and vote to possibly censure and remove James McCrery from this organization for his actions and inactions.  I've responded to Stephen Ayers, FAIA tepid response to the AIA Architectural Historic Resources Committee's discussion but as yet I haven't heard back.  History will judge those who don't take a stand poorly and those who do on this issue with honor.

As I've said before and I'll say it again:  If not us, then who?  If not now, then when?

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 11-04-2025 04:22 PM
From: Robert Burns, AIA
Subject: White House Demolition and Ballroom Project

Dear HRC membership,

As chair of the HRC Advisory Group, I've been watching the conversations on the HRC Community Hub regarding the demolition of the White House East Wing and the proposed construction of the large ballroom addition with great interest. Although I have to believe most of the HRC membership would take issue with the lack of transparency and due process followed by the administration in undertaking this project, it appears the facts of the matter are that the White House-a National Historic Landmark-is not legally protected from alterations of the scale and scope of what is currently underway.

While many of us personally might come to a different conclusion than McCrery Architects with regard to accepting the ballroom commission, the liberty to choose to accept a controversial commission is not one I would feel comfortable abridging for any of our membership. The HRC is 9,600 members strong; the AIA has close to 100,000 members. We have a diversity of experiences and opinions, and architects will always find issues about which to vigorously debate.

As you well know, the AIA, in consultation with the HRC Advisory Group, issued a statement in August advising the administration to follow customary review and approval processes for the ballroom project. In October, as demolition of the East Wing got underway, the AIA issued a further statement condemning the destruction. The AIA Public Policy and Government Relations Group is our organization's lead on matters of public policy. As AIA members, I encourage you to make your feelings known directly to them, as well as to the AIA Board and Strategic Council.

------------------------------
Robert Burns, AIA
2025 Chair
Historic Resources Committee Advisory Group
Richmond, VA
------------------------------

To update everyone I just attended the zoom meeting of the Society of Architectural Historians on the East Wing Demolition Forum.  It was very interesting and informative.  I decided to join the SAH because I believe they have stepped up to inform the public about the destruction occurring at  the White House.  Their website is at:  https://sah.org/. 

I joined also the Marion Dean Ross Pacific Northwest Chapter because Professor Ross was my Architectural History Professor at the University of Oregon (Go Ducks!).

Additionally the following was just brought to my attention:  https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1PtqtHfSg9/?mibextid=wwXIfr

This is interesting yet despicable information on what McCrery Architects in collusion with Trump are depicting in the new atrocious ballroom building in the form of Nazi symbols that I didn't recognise until this gentlemen pointed them out in plain site on the renderings of McCrery Architects. The Nazi eagle atop 88' flag poles are used by Nazi organizations still. This is a horrific indication of where this administration is heading. We must stop this!

If you doubt this here is the rendering that the White House has on their web site and the Nazi eagle in comparison to the American Eagle Seal of the United States.

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 11-05-2025 03:40 AM
From: Samuel Combs, AIA
Subject: White House Demolition and Ballroom Project

The current episode of South Park even has the East Wing Demolition of the White House.

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 11-04-2025 07:13 PM
From: Samuel Combs, AIA
Subject: White House Demolition and Ballroom Project

Robert, I'm happy that you finally chimed in on this discussion.  I'm still waiting for the Fellows of the AIA to become part of this discussion. 

I disagree with you concerning the legality of the destruction of the "People's House".  First, there was no remediation in concern with abatement of asbestos and other hazardous materials.  The White House has claimed there was abatement in September, but this President has lied over 30,573 times in his first term and there has been no proof of such action.  The president promised that his new ballroom "…will be near it (East Wing), but not touching it and it will pay total respect to the existing building." President Trump destroyed the East Wing of the White House last week - even while members of Congress dined in his paved-over "Rose Garden Club.This happened while the federal government was shut down - a "Let them eat cake" moment. It is illegal to conduct demolition when known hazardous materials are present per Federal and State regulations.  The public must be protected during abatement.  It will be interesting in the future how many lawsuits are brought against the White House concerning this exposure and the cases of Asbestosis.  I've seen a photo of Republican Congress members sitting in the paved over Rose Garden as Trump speaks and the East Wing is being demolished in the background. They should have stopped the destruction and they might pay for their inaction in the future with their health and maybe even lives.

Second illegal action was the President's firing of members of the National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC) and placing his own sycophants in place of reputable people.  The current members of the NCPC are:  Trumps Appointees: William Scharf (At-Large), Assistant to the President and White House Secretary (conflict?); Stuart Levenbach, a policy analyst in the White House Office of Management and Budget's Office of Information and Regulatory Affair (conflict?);  Michael James Blair is the White House deputy chief of staff for legislative, political and public affairs since 2025 (conflict?); Mayor of the District of Columbia Appointees: Arrington Dixon, Council of the District of Columbia; Linda Argo, DC; Ex officio Members: Pete Hegseth, Secretary of War (conflict?); Doug Burgum, Secretary of the Interior (conflict?); Michael Rigas, Acting Administrator of GSA (conflict?); Rand Paul (R) Senator (conflict?); James Comer House Rep (R) (conflict?); Muriel Bowser, Mayor of DC; and finally Phil Mendelson, Chairman, Council of the District of Columbia. So, contrary to Allen Stewart's (participant in this discussion who is all for the destruction of the East Wing) contention that DC has no jurisdiction and that it can't be a damaged plaintiff is untrue.  Still, Trumps members outnumber the others 8 to 4, so the president will get whatever he wants through his rigging of the Commission. The last time the NCPC met was on July 10, 2025, although they should have met according to their schedule on September 4, October 9 and are scheduled to meet on November 6.  Covering up the truth-I think so.

Thirdly, the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts and have all been dismissed by Trump.  Billie Tsien was the Chair of a reputable Commission.  It won't be pleasant to see who Trump appoints to this commission now since all the positions are marked "Vacant".  This is just another way Trump has distorted the playing field when it comes to those who would halt or forestall the abomination of the new out-of-scale atrocious ballroom addition.  Many of the Commission members including the Chair still had years left in their terms.  This is just as illegal as all the firings this Administration has conducted through DOGE and currently during this Federal Government shutdown.

Fourthly, there have been illegal actions taken by James McCrery, AIA who has reportedly given this regime the okay to tear down the building because the new ballroom wouldn't fit with the East Wing still intact as the President had promised.  He knew that to do so was illegal and not warning the public of the impending demolition without abatement of hazardous materials was not keeping the Health, Safety & Welfare of the public protected.

And finally, I want to make this perfectly clear that I wish no ill on James McCrery, AIA.  I just believe that this effort will slow down the further destruction of the White House, the People's House.  Mr. McCrery needs to know that the American Architectural Community believes that what is happening to the White House and the way that this despicable act of the destruction of the People's House has proceeded is wrong.  The depiction of what this out of scale ballroom addition will do to the remaining White House is atrocious and needs to be stopped.  No Architect should be willing to design this disaster and Mr. McCrery should reverse course and bow out of the design.

I've researched the AIA Code of Ethics & Professional Conduct and believe that James McCrery has violated the following Rules:  

ULE 1.402: Members shall not engage in conduct involving wanton disregard of the rights of others.

RULE 2.101: Members shall not, in the conduct of their professional practice, knowingly violate the law.

RULE 2.106: Members shall not counsel or assist a client in conduct that the architect knows, or reasonably should know, is fraudulent or illegal.

RULE 2.401: When performing professional services, Members shall make reasonable efforts to inform their clients of the potential environmental impacts or consequences the Members reasonably believes may occur as a result of work performed on behalf of the clients.

RULE 3.101: In performing professional services, Members shall take into account applicable laws and regulations. Members may rely on the advice of other qualified persons as to the intent and meaning of such regulations.

RULE 3.102: Members shall undertake to perform professional services only when they, together with those whom they may engage as consultants, are qualified by education, training, or experience in the specific technical areas involved.

RULE 3.201: Members shall not render professional services if the Member's professional judgment could be affected by responsibilities to another project or person, or by the Member's own interests, unless all those who rely on the Member's judgment consent after full disclosure.

I think it way past time that the National AIA take a stand on this issue and vote to possibly censure and remove James McCrery from this organization for his actions and inactions.  I've responded to Stephen Ayers, FAIA tepid response to the AIA Architectural Historic Resources Committee's discussion but as yet I haven't heard back.  History will judge those who don't take a stand poorly and those who do on this issue with honor.

As I've said before and I'll say it again:  If not us, then who?  If not now, then when?

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 11-04-2025 04:22 PM
From: Robert Burns, AIA
Subject: White House Demolition and Ballroom Project

Dear HRC membership,

As chair of the HRC Advisory Group, I've been watching the conversations on the HRC Community Hub regarding the demolition of the White House East Wing and the proposed construction of the large ballroom addition with great interest. Although I have to believe most of the HRC membership would take issue with the lack of transparency and due process followed by the administration in undertaking this project, it appears the facts of the matter are that the White House-a National Historic Landmark-is not legally protected from alterations of the scale and scope of what is currently underway.

While many of us personally might come to a different conclusion than McCrery Architects with regard to accepting the ballroom commission, the liberty to choose to accept a controversial commission is not one I would feel comfortable abridging for any of our membership. The HRC is 9,600 members strong; the AIA has close to 100,000 members. We have a diversity of experiences and opinions, and architects will always find issues about which to vigorously debate.

As you well know, the AIA, in consultation with the HRC Advisory Group, issued a statement in August advising the administration to follow customary review and approval processes for the ballroom project. In October, as demolition of the East Wing got underway, the AIA issued a further statement condemning the destruction. The AIA Public Policy and Government Relations Group is our organization's lead on matters of public policy. As AIA members, I encourage you to make your feelings known directly to them, as well as to the AIA Board and Strategic Council.

------------------------------
Robert Burns, AIA
2025 Chair
Historic Resources Committee Advisory Group
Richmond, VA
------------------------------

Here is the American Eagle Seal of the United States.

To update everyone I just attended the zoom meeting of the Society of Architectural Historians on the East Wing Demolition Forum.  It was very interesting and informative.  I decided to join the SAH because I believe they have stepped up to inform the public about the destruction occurring at  the White House.  Their website is at:  https://sah.org/. 

I joined also the Marion Dean Ross Pacific Northwest Chapter because Professor Ross was my Architectural History Professor at the University of Oregon (Go Ducks!).

Additionally the following was just brought to my attention:  https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1PtqtHfSg9/?mibextid=wwXIfr

This is interesting yet despicable information on what McCrery Architects in collusion with Trump are depicting in the new atrocious ballroom building in the form of Nazi symbols that I didn't recognise until this gentlemen pointed them out in plain site on the renderings of McCrery Architects. The Nazi eagle atop 88' flag poles are used by Nazi organizations still. This is a horrific indication of where this administration is heading. We must stop this!

If you doubt this here is the rendering that the White House has on their web site and the Nazi eagle in comparison to the American Eagle Seal of the United States.

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 11-05-2025 03:40 AM
From: Samuel Combs, AIA
Subject: White House Demolition and Ballroom Project

The current episode of South Park even has the East Wing Demolition of the White House.

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 11-04-2025 07:13 PM
From: Samuel Combs, AIA
Subject: White House Demolition and Ballroom Project

Robert, I'm happy that you finally chimed in on this discussion.  I'm still waiting for the Fellows of the AIA to become part of this discussion. 

I disagree with you concerning the legality of the destruction of the "People's House".  First, there was no remediation in concern with abatement of asbestos and other hazardous materials.  The White House has claimed there was abatement in September, but this President has lied over 30,573 times in his first term and there has been no proof of such action.  The president promised that his new ballroom "…will be near it (East Wing), but not touching it and it will pay total respect to the existing building." President Trump destroyed the East Wing of the White House last week - even while members of Congress dined in his paved-over "Rose Garden Club.This happened while the federal government was shut down - a "Let them eat cake" moment. It is illegal to conduct demolition when known hazardous materials are present per Federal and State regulations.  The public must be protected during abatement.  It will be interesting in the future how many lawsuits are brought against the White House concerning this exposure and the cases of Asbestosis.  I've seen a photo of Republican Congress members sitting in the paved over Rose Garden as Trump speaks and the East Wing is being demolished in the background. They should have stopped the destruction and they might pay for their inaction in the future with their health and maybe even lives.

Second illegal action was the President's firing of members of the National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC) and placing his own sycophants in place of reputable people.  The current members of the NCPC are:  Trumps Appointees: William Scharf (At-Large), Assistant to the President and White House Secretary (conflict?); Stuart Levenbach, a policy analyst in the White House Office of Management and Budget's Office of Information and Regulatory Affair (conflict?);  Michael James Blair is the White House deputy chief of staff for legislative, political and public affairs since 2025 (conflict?); Mayor of the District of Columbia Appointees: Arrington Dixon, Council of the District of Columbia; Linda Argo, DC; Ex officio Members: Pete Hegseth, Secretary of War (conflict?); Doug Burgum, Secretary of the Interior (conflict?); Michael Rigas, Acting Administrator of GSA (conflict?); Rand Paul (R) Senator (conflict?); James Comer House Rep (R) (conflict?); Muriel Bowser, Mayor of DC; and finally Phil Mendelson, Chairman, Council of the District of Columbia. So, contrary to Allen Stewart's (participant in this discussion who is all for the destruction of the East Wing) contention that DC has no jurisdiction and that it can't be a damaged plaintiff is untrue.  Still, Trumps members outnumber the others 8 to 4, so the president will get whatever he wants through his rigging of the Commission. The last time the NCPC met was on July 10, 2025, although they should have met according to their schedule on September 4, October 9 and are scheduled to meet on November 6.  Covering up the truth-I think so.

Thirdly, the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts and have all been dismissed by Trump.  Billie Tsien was the Chair of a reputable Commission.  It won't be pleasant to see who Trump appoints to this commission now since all the positions are marked "Vacant".  This is just another way Trump has distorted the playing field when it comes to those who would halt or forestall the abomination of the new out-of-scale atrocious ballroom addition.  Many of the Commission members including the Chair still had years left in their terms.  This is just as illegal as all the firings this Administration has conducted through DOGE and currently during this Federal Government shutdown.

Fourthly, there have been illegal actions taken by James McCrery, AIA who has reportedly given this regime the okay to tear down the building because the new ballroom wouldn't fit with the East Wing still intact as the President had promised.  He knew that to do so was illegal and not warning the public of the impending demolition without abatement of hazardous materials was not keeping the Health, Safety & Welfare of the public protected.

And finally, I want to make this perfectly clear that I wish no ill on James McCrery, AIA.  I just believe that this effort will slow down the further destruction of the White House, the People's House.  Mr. McCrery needs to know that the American Architectural Community believes that what is happening to the White House and the way that this despicable act of the destruction of the People's House has proceeded is wrong.  The depiction of what this out of scale ballroom addition will do to the remaining White House is atrocious and needs to be stopped.  No Architect should be willing to design this disaster and Mr. McCrery should reverse course and bow out of the design.

I've researched the AIA Code of Ethics & Professional Conduct and believe that James McCrery has violated the following Rules:  

ULE 1.402: Members shall not engage in conduct involving wanton disregard of the rights of others.

RULE 2.101: Members shall not, in the conduct of their professional practice, knowingly violate the law.

RULE 2.106: Members shall not counsel or assist a client in conduct that the architect knows, or reasonably should know, is fraudulent or illegal.

RULE 2.401: When performing professional services, Members shall make reasonable efforts to inform their clients of the potential environmental impacts or consequences the Members reasonably believes may occur as a result of work performed on behalf of the clients.

RULE 3.101: In performing professional services, Members shall take into account applicable laws and regulations. Members may rely on the advice of other qualified persons as to the intent and meaning of such regulations.

RULE 3.102: Members shall undertake to perform professional services only when they, together with those whom they may engage as consultants, are qualified by education, training, or experience in the specific technical areas involved.

RULE 3.201: Members shall not render professional services if the Member's professional judgment could be affected by responsibilities to another project or person, or by the Member's own interests, unless all those who rely on the Member's judgment consent after full disclosure.

I think it way past time that the National AIA take a stand on this issue and vote to possibly censure and remove James McCrery from this organization for his actions and inactions.  I've responded to Stephen Ayers, FAIA tepid response to the AIA Architectural Historic Resources Committee's discussion but as yet I haven't heard back.  History will judge those who don't take a stand poorly and those who do on this issue with honor.

As I've said before and I'll say it again:  If not us, then who?  If not now, then when?

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 11-04-2025 04:22 PM
From: Robert Burns, AIA
Subject: White House Demolition and Ballroom Project

Dear HRC membership,

As chair of the HRC Advisory Group, I've been watching the conversations on the HRC Community Hub regarding the demolition of the White House East Wing and the proposed construction of the large ballroom addition with great interest. Although I have to believe most of the HRC membership would take issue with the lack of transparency and due process followed by the administration in undertaking this project, it appears the facts of the matter are that the White House-a National Historic Landmark-is not legally protected from alterations of the scale and scope of what is currently underway.

While many of us personally might come to a different conclusion than McCrery Architects with regard to accepting the ballroom commission, the liberty to choose to accept a controversial commission is not one I would feel comfortable abridging for any of our membership. The HRC is 9,600 members strong; the AIA has close to 100,000 members. We have a diversity of experiences and opinions, and architects will always find issues about which to vigorously debate.

As you well know, the AIA, in consultation with the HRC Advisory Group, issued a statement in August advising the administration to follow customary review and approval processes for the ballroom project. In October, as demolition of the East Wing got underway, the AIA issued a further statement condemning the destruction. The AIA Public Policy and Government Relations Group is our organization's lead on matters of public policy. As AIA members, I encourage you to make your feelings known directly to them, as well as to the AIA Board and Strategic Council.

------------------------------
Robert Burns, AIA
2025 Chair
Historic Resources Committee Advisory Group
Richmond, VA
------------------------------

To update everyone, I just attended the zoom meeting of the Society of Architectural Historians on the East Wing Demolition Forum.  It was very interesting and informative.  I decided to join the SAH because I believe they have stepped up to inform the public about the destruction occurring at  the White House.  Their website is at:  https://sah.org/. 

I also joined the Marion Dean Ross Pacific Northwest Chapter because Professor Ross was my Architectural History Professor at the University of Oregon (Go Ducks!).

Additionally the following was just brought to my attention:  https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1PtqtHfSg9/?mibextid=wwXIfr

This is interesting yet despicable information on what McCrery Architects in collusion with Trump are depicting in the new atrocious ballroom building in the form of Nazi symbols that I didn't recognize until this gentlemen pointed them out in plain site on the renderings of McCrery Architects. The Nazi eagle atop 88' flag poles are used by Nazi organizations still. This is a horrific indication of where this administration is heading. We must stop this!

If you doubt this here is the rendering that the White House has on their web site and the Nazi eagle in comparison to the American Eagle Seal of the United States.

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 11-05-2025 03:40 AM
From: Samuel Combs, AIA
Subject: White House Demolition and Ballroom Project

The current episode of South Park even has the East Wing Demolition of the White House.

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 11-04-2025 07:13 PM
From: Samuel Combs, AIA
Subject: White House Demolition and Ballroom Project

Robert, I'm happy that you finally chimed in on this discussion.  I'm still waiting for the Fellows of the AIA to become part of this discussion. 

I disagree with you concerning the legality of the destruction of the "People's House".  First, there was no remediation in concern with abatement of asbestos and other hazardous materials.  The White House has claimed there was abatement in September, but this President has lied over 30,573 times in his first term and there has been no proof of such action.  The president promised that his new ballroom "…will be near it (East Wing), but not touching it and it will pay total respect to the existing building." President Trump destroyed the East Wing of the White House last week - even while members of Congress dined in his paved-over "Rose Garden Club.This happened while the federal government was shut down - a "Let them eat cake" moment. It is illegal to conduct demolition when known hazardous materials are present per Federal and State regulations.  The public must be protected during abatement.  It will be interesting in the future how many lawsuits are brought against the White House concerning this exposure and the cases of Asbestosis.  I've seen a photo of Republican Congress members sitting in the paved over Rose Garden as Trump speaks and the East Wing is being demolished in the background. They should have stopped the destruction and they might pay for their inaction in the future with their health and maybe even lives.

Second illegal action was the President's firing of members of the National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC) and placing his own sycophants in place of reputable people.  The current members of the NCPC are:  Trumps Appointees: William Scharf (At-Large), Assistant to the President and White House Secretary (conflict?); Stuart Levenbach, a policy analyst in the White House Office of Management and Budget's Office of Information and Regulatory Affair (conflict?);  Michael James Blair is the White House deputy chief of staff for legislative, political and public affairs since 2025 (conflict?); Mayor of the District of Columbia Appointees: Arrington Dixon, Council of the District of Columbia; Linda Argo, DC; Ex officio Members: Pete Hegseth, Secretary of War (conflict?); Doug Burgum, Secretary of the Interior (conflict?); Michael Rigas, Acting Administrator of GSA (conflict?); Rand Paul (R) Senator (conflict?); James Comer House Rep (R) (conflict?); Muriel Bowser, Mayor of DC; and finally Phil Mendelson, Chairman, Council of the District of Columbia. So, contrary to Allen Stewart's (participant in this discussion who is all for the destruction of the East Wing) contention that DC has no jurisdiction and that it can't be a damaged plaintiff is untrue.  Still, Trumps members outnumber the others 8 to 4, so the president will get whatever he wants through his rigging of the Commission. The last time the NCPC met was on July 10, 2025, although they should have met according to their schedule on September 4, October 9 and are scheduled to meet on November 6.  Covering up the truth-I think so.

Thirdly, the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts and have all been dismissed by Trump.  Billie Tsien was the Chair of a reputable Commission.  It won't be pleasant to see who Trump appoints to this commission now since all the positions are marked "Vacant".  This is just another way Trump has distorted the playing field when it comes to those who would halt or forestall the abomination of the new out-of-scale atrocious ballroom addition.  Many of the Commission members including the Chair still had years left in their terms.  This is just as illegal as all the firings this Administration has conducted through DOGE and currently during this Federal Government shutdown.

Fourthly, there have been illegal actions taken by James McCrery, AIA who has reportedly given this regime the okay to tear down the building because the new ballroom wouldn't fit with the East Wing still intact as the President had promised.  He knew that to do so was illegal and not warning the public of the impending demolition without abatement of hazardous materials was not keeping the Health, Safety & Welfare of the public protected.

And finally, I want to make this perfectly clear that I wish no ill on James McCrery, AIA.  I just believe that this effort will slow down the further destruction of the White House, the People's House.  Mr. McCrery needs to know that the American Architectural Community believes that what is happening to the White House and the way that this despicable act of the destruction of the People's House has proceeded is wrong.  The depiction of what this out of scale ballroom addition will do to the remaining White House is atrocious and needs to be stopped.  No Architect should be willing to design this disaster and Mr. McCrery should reverse course and bow out of the design.

I've researched the AIA Code of Ethics & Professional Conduct and believe that James McCrery has violated the following Rules:  

ULE 1.402: Members shall not engage in conduct involving wanton disregard of the rights of others.

RULE 2.101: Members shall not, in the conduct of their professional practice, knowingly violate the law.

RULE 2.106: Members shall not counsel or assist a client in conduct that the architect knows, or reasonably should know, is fraudulent or illegal.

RULE 2.401: When performing professional services, Members shall make reasonable efforts to inform their clients of the potential environmental impacts or consequences the Members reasonably believes may occur as a result of work performed on behalf of the clients.

RULE 3.101: In performing professional services, Members shall take into account applicable laws and regulations. Members may rely on the advice of other qualified persons as to the intent and meaning of such regulations.

RULE 3.102: Members shall undertake to perform professional services only when they, together with those whom they may engage as consultants, are qualified by education, training, or experience in the specific technical areas involved.

RULE 3.201: Members shall not render professional services if the Member's professional judgment could be affected by responsibilities to another project or person, or by the Member's own interests, unless all those who rely on the Member's judgment consent after full disclosure.

I think it way past time that the National AIA take a stand on this issue and vote to possibly censure and remove James McCrery from this organization for his actions and inactions.  I've responded to Stephen Ayers, FAIA tepid response to the AIA Architectural Historic Resources Committee's discussion but as yet I haven't heard back.  History will judge those who don't take a stand poorly and those who do on this issue with honor.

As I've said before and I'll say it again:  If not us, then who?  If not now, then when?

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 11-04-2025 04:22 PM
From: Robert Burns, AIA
Subject: White House Demolition and Ballroom Project

Dear HRC membership,

As chair of the HRC Advisory Group, I've been watching the conversations on the HRC Community Hub regarding the demolition of the White House East Wing and the proposed construction of the large ballroom addition with great interest. Although I have to believe most of the HRC membership would take issue with the lack of transparency and due process followed by the administration in undertaking this project, it appears the facts of the matter are that the White House-a National Historic Landmark-is not legally protected from alterations of the scale and scope of what is currently underway.

While many of us personally might come to a different conclusion than McCrery Architects with regard to accepting the ballroom commission, the liberty to choose to accept a controversial commission is not one I would feel comfortable abridging for any of our membership. The HRC is 9,600 members strong; the AIA has close to 100,000 members. We have a diversity of experiences and opinions, and architects will always find issues about which to vigorously debate.

As you well know, the AIA, in consultation with the HRC Advisory Group, issued a statement in August advising the administration to follow customary review and approval processes for the ballroom project. In October, as demolition of the East Wing got underway, the AIA issued a further statement condemning the destruction. The AIA Public Policy and Government Relations Group is our organization's lead on matters of public policy. As AIA members, I encourage you to make your feelings known directly to them, as well as to the AIA Board and Strategic Council.

------------------------------
Robert Burns, AIA
2025 Chair
Historic Resources Committee Advisory Group
Richmond, VA
------------------------------

To update everyone, I just attended the zoom meeting of the Society of Architectural Historians on the East Wing Demolition Forum.  It was very interesting and informative.  I decided to join the SAH because I believe they have stepped up to inform the public about the destruction occurring at  the White House.  Their website is at:  https://sah.org/. 

I also joined the Marion Dean Ross Pacific Northwest Chapter because Professor Ross was my Architectural History Professor at the University of Oregon (Go Ducks!).

Additionally the following was just brought to my attention:  https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1PtqtHfSg9/?mibextid=wwXIfr

This is interesting yet despicable information on what McCrery Architects in collusion with Trump are depicting in the new atrocious ballroom building in the form of Nazi symbols that I didn't recognize until this gentlemen pointed them out in plain site on the renderings of McCrery Architects. The Nazi eagle atop 88' flag poles are used by Nazi organizations still. This is a horrific indication of where this administration is heading. We must stop this!

If you doubt this here is the rendering that the White House has on their web site and the Nazi eagle in comparison to the American Eagle Seal of the United States.

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 11-05-2025 03:40 AM
From: Samuel Combs, AIA
Subject: White House Demolition and Ballroom Project

The current episode of South Park even has the East Wing Demolition of the White House.

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 11-04-2025 07:13 PM
From: Samuel Combs, AIA
Subject: White House Demolition and Ballroom Project

Robert, I'm happy that you finally chimed in on this discussion.  I'm still waiting for the Fellows of the AIA to become part of this discussion. 

I disagree with you concerning the legality of the destruction of the "People's House".  First, there was no remediation in concern with abatement of asbestos and other hazardous materials.  The White House has claimed there was abatement in September, but this President has lied over 30,573 times in his first term and there has been no proof of such action.  The president promised that his new ballroom "…will be near it (East Wing), but not touching it and it will pay total respect to the existing building." President Trump destroyed the East Wing of the White House last week - even while members of Congress dined in his paved-over "Rose Garden Club.This happened while the federal government was shut down - a "Let them eat cake" moment. It is illegal to conduct demolition when known hazardous materials are present per Federal and State regulations.  The public must be protected during abatement.  It will be interesting in the future how many lawsuits are brought against the White House concerning this exposure and the cases of Asbestosis.  I've seen a photo of Republican Congress members sitting in the paved over Rose Garden as Trump speaks and the East Wing is being demolished in the background. They should have stopped the destruction and they might pay for their inaction in the future with their health and maybe even lives.

Second illegal action was the President's firing of members of the National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC) and placing his own sycophants in place of reputable people.  The current members of the NCPC are:  Trumps Appointees: William Scharf (At-Large), Assistant to the President and White House Secretary (conflict?); Stuart Levenbach, a policy analyst in the White House Office of Management and Budget's Office of Information and Regulatory Affair (conflict?);  Michael James Blair is the White House deputy chief of staff for legislative, political and public affairs since 2025 (conflict?); Mayor of the District of Columbia Appointees: Arrington Dixon, Council of the District of Columbia; Linda Argo, DC; Ex officio Members: Pete Hegseth, Secretary of War (conflict?); Doug Burgum, Secretary of the Interior (conflict?); Michael Rigas, Acting Administrator of GSA (conflict?); Rand Paul (R) Senator (conflict?); James Comer House Rep (R) (conflict?); Muriel Bowser, Mayor of DC; and finally Phil Mendelson, Chairman, Council of the District of Columbia. So, contrary to Allen Stewart's (participant in this discussion who is all for the destruction of the East Wing) contention that DC has no jurisdiction and that it can't be a damaged plaintiff is untrue.  Still, Trumps members outnumber the others 8 to 4, so the president will get whatever he wants through his rigging of the Commission. The last time the NCPC met was on July 10, 2025, although they should have met according to their schedule on September 4, October 9 and are scheduled to meet on November 6.  Covering up the truth-I think so.

Thirdly, the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts and have all been dismissed by Trump.  Billie Tsien was the Chair of a reputable Commission.  It won't be pleasant to see who Trump appoints to this commission now since all the positions are marked "Vacant".  This is just another way Trump has distorted the playing field when it comes to those who would halt or forestall the abomination of the new out-of-scale atrocious ballroom addition.  Many of the Commission members including the Chair still had years left in their terms.  This is just as illegal as all the firings this Administration has conducted through DOGE and currently during this Federal Government shutdown.

Fourthly, there have been illegal actions taken by James McCrery, AIA who has reportedly given this regime the okay to tear down the building because the new ballroom wouldn't fit with the East Wing still intact as the President had promised.  He knew that to do so was illegal and not warning the public of the impending demolition without abatement of hazardous materials was not keeping the Health, Safety & Welfare of the public protected.

And finally, I want to make this perfectly clear that I wish no ill on James McCrery, AIA.  I just believe that this effort will slow down the further destruction of the White House, the People's House.  Mr. McCrery needs to know that the American Architectural Community believes that what is happening to the White House and the way that this despicable act of the destruction of the People's House has proceeded is wrong.  The depiction of what this out of scale ballroom addition will do to the remaining White House is atrocious and needs to be stopped.  No Architect should be willing to design this disaster and Mr. McCrery should reverse course and bow out of the design.

I've researched the AIA Code of Ethics & Professional Conduct and believe that James McCrery has violated the following Rules:  

ULE 1.402: Members shall not engage in conduct involving wanton disregard of the rights of others.

RULE 2.101: Members shall not, in the conduct of their professional practice, knowingly violate the law.

RULE 2.106: Members shall not counsel or assist a client in conduct that the architect knows, or reasonably should know, is fraudulent or illegal.

RULE 2.401: When performing professional services, Members shall make reasonable efforts to inform their clients of the potential environmental impacts or consequences the Members reasonably believes may occur as a result of work performed on behalf of the clients.

RULE 3.101: In performing professional services, Members shall take into account applicable laws and regulations. Members may rely on the advice of other qualified persons as to the intent and meaning of such regulations.

RULE 3.102: Members shall undertake to perform professional services only when they, together with those whom they may engage as consultants, are qualified by education, training, or experience in the specific technical areas involved.

RULE 3.201: Members shall not render professional services if the Member's professional judgment could be affected by responsibilities to another project or person, or by the Member's own interests, unless all those who rely on the Member's judgment consent after full disclosure.

I think it way past time that the National AIA take a stand on this issue and vote to possibly censure and remove James McCrery from this organization for his actions and inactions.  I've responded to Stephen Ayers, FAIA tepid response to the AIA Architectural Historic Resources Committee's discussion but as yet I haven't heard back.  History will judge those who don't take a stand poorly and those who do on this issue with honor.

As I've said before and I'll say it again:  If not us, then who?  If not now, then when?

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 11-04-2025 04:22 PM
From: Robert Burns, AIA
Subject: White House Demolition and Ballroom Project

Dear HRC membership,

As chair of the HRC Advisory Group, I've been watching the conversations on the HRC Community Hub regarding the demolition of the White House East Wing and the proposed construction of the large ballroom addition with great interest. Although I have to believe most of the HRC membership would take issue with the lack of transparency and due process followed by the administration in undertaking this project, it appears the facts of the matter are that the White House-a National Historic Landmark-is not legally protected from alterations of the scale and scope of what is currently underway.

While many of us personally might come to a different conclusion than McCrery Architects with regard to accepting the ballroom commission, the liberty to choose to accept a controversial commission is not one I would feel comfortable abridging for any of our membership. The HRC is 9,600 members strong; the AIA has close to 100,000 members. We have a diversity of experiences and opinions, and architects will always find issues about which to vigorously debate.

As you well know, the AIA, in consultation with the HRC Advisory Group, issued a statement in August advising the administration to follow customary review and approval processes for the ballroom project. In October, as demolition of the East Wing got underway, the AIA issued a further statement condemning the destruction. The AIA Public Policy and Government Relations Group is our organization's lead on matters of public policy. As AIA members, I encourage you to make your feelings known directly to them, as well as to the AIA Board and Strategic Council.

------------------------------
Robert Burns, AIA
2025 Chair
Historic Resources Committee Advisory Group
Richmond, VA
------------------------------

Robert, I'm happy that you finally chimed in on this discussion.  I'm still waiting for the Fellows of the AIA to become part of this discussion. 

I disagree with you concerning the legality of the destruction of the "People's House".  First, there was no remediation in concern with abatement of asbestos and other hazardous materials.  The White House has claimed there was abatement in September, but this President has lied over 30,573 times in his first term and there has been no proof of such action.  The president promised that his new ballroom "…will be near it (East Wing), but not touching it and it will pay total respect to the existing building." President Trump destroyed the East Wing of the White House last week - even while members of Congress dined in his paved-over "Rose Garden Club.This happened while the federal government was shut down - a "Let them eat cake" moment. It is illegal to conduct demolition when known hazardous materials are present per Federal and State regulations.  The public must be protected during abatement.  It will be interesting in the future how many lawsuits are brought against the White House concerning this exposure and the cases of Asbestosis.  I've seen a photo of Republican Congress members sitting in the paved over Rose Garden as Trump speaks and the East Wing is being demolished in the background. They should have stopped the destruction and they might pay for their inaction in the future with their health and maybe even lives.

Second illegal action was the President's firing of members of the National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC) and placing his own sycophants in place of reputable people.  The current members of the NCPC are:  Trumps Appointees: William Scharf (At-Large), Assistant to the President and White House Secretary (conflict?); Stuart Levenbach, a policy analyst in the White House Office of Management and Budget's Office of Information and Regulatory Affair (conflict?);  Michael James Blair is the White House deputy chief of staff for legislative, political and public affairs since 2025 (conflict?); Mayor of the District of Columbia Appointees: Arrington Dixon, Council of the District of Columbia; Linda Argo, DC; Ex officio Members: Pete Hegseth, Secretary of War (conflict?); Doug Burgum, Secretary of the Interior (conflict?); Michael Rigas, Acting Administrator of GSA (conflict?); Rand Paul (R) Senator (conflict?); James Comer House Rep (R) (conflict?); Muriel Bowser, Mayor of DC; and finally Phil Mendelson, Chairman, Council of the District of Columbia. So, contrary to Allen Stewart's (participant in this discussion who is all for the destruction of the East Wing) contention that DC has no jurisdiction and that it can't be a damaged plaintiff is untrue.  Still, Trumps members outnumber the others 8 to 4, so the president will get whatever he wants through his rigging of the Commission. The last time the NCPC met was on July 10, 2025, although they should have met according to their schedule on September 4, October 9 and are scheduled to meet on November 6.  Covering up the truth-I think so.

Thirdly, the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts and have all been dismissed by Trump.  Billie Tsien was the Chair of a reputable Commission.  It won't be pleasant to see who Trump appoints to this commission now since all the positions are marked "Vacant".  This is just another way Trump has distorted the playing field when it comes to those who would halt or forestall the abomination of the new out-of-scale atrocious ballroom addition.  Many of the Commission members including the Chair still had years left in their terms.  This is just as illegal as all the firings this Administration has conducted through DOGE and currently during this Federal Government shutdown.

Fourthly, there have been illegal actions taken by James McCrery, AIA who has reportedly given this regime the okay to tear down the building because the new ballroom wouldn't fit with the East Wing still intact as the President had promised.  He knew that to do so was illegal and not warning the public of the impending demolition without abatement of hazardous materials was not keeping the Health, Safety & Welfare of the public protected.

And finally, I want to make this perfectly clear that I wish no ill on James McCrery, AIA.  I just believe that this effort will slow down the further destruction of the White House, the People's House.  Mr. McCrery needs to know that the American Architectural Community believes that what is happening to the White House and the way that this despicable act of the destruction of the People's House has proceeded is wrong.  The depiction of what this out of scale ballroom addition will do to the remaining White House is atrocious and needs to be stopped.  No Architect should be willing to design this disaster and Mr. McCrery should reverse course and bow out of the design.

I've researched the AIA Code of Ethics & Professional Conduct and believe that James McCrery has violated the following Rules:  

ULE 1.402: Members shall not engage in conduct involving wanton disregard of the rights of others.

RULE 2.101: Members shall not, in the conduct of their professional practice, knowingly violate the law.

RULE 2.106: Members shall not counsel or assist a client in conduct that the architect knows, or reasonably should know, is fraudulent or illegal.

RULE 2.401: When performing professional services, Members shall make reasonable efforts to inform their clients of the potential environmental impacts or consequences the Members reasonably believes may occur as a result of work performed on behalf of the clients.

RULE 3.101: In performing professional services, Members shall take into account applicable laws and regulations. Members may rely on the advice of other qualified persons as to the intent and meaning of such regulations.

RULE 3.102: Members shall undertake to perform professional services only when they, together with those whom they may engage as consultants, are qualified by education, training, or experience in the specific technical areas involved.

RULE 3.201: Members shall not render professional services if the Member's professional judgment could be affected by responsibilities to another project or person, or by the Member's own interests, unless all those who rely on the Member's judgment consent after full disclosure.

I think it way past time that the National AIA take a stand on this issue and vote to possibly censure and remove James McCrery from this organization for his actions and inactions.  I've responded to Stephen Ayers, FAIA tepid response to the AIA Architectural Historic Resources Committee's discussion but as yet I haven't heard back.  History will judge those who don't take a stand poorly and those who do on this issue with honor.

As I've said before and I'll say it again:  If not us, then who?  If not now, then when?

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 11-04-2025 04:22 PM
From: Robert Burns, AIA
Subject: White House Demolition and Ballroom Project

Dear HRC membership,

As chair of the HRC Advisory Group, I've been watching the conversations on the HRC Community Hub regarding the demolition of the White House East Wing and the proposed construction of the large ballroom addition with great interest. Although I have to believe most of the HRC membership would take issue with the lack of transparency and due process followed by the administration in undertaking this project, it appears the facts of the matter are that the White House-a National Historic Landmark-is not legally protected from alterations of the scale and scope of what is currently underway.

While many of us personally might come to a different conclusion than McCrery Architects with regard to accepting the ballroom commission, the liberty to choose to accept a controversial commission is not one I would feel comfortable abridging for any of our membership. The HRC is 9,600 members strong; the AIA has close to 100,000 members. We have a diversity of experiences and opinions, and architects will always find issues about which to vigorously debate.

As you well know, the AIA, in consultation with the HRC Advisory Group, issued a statement in August advising the administration to follow customary review and approval processes for the ballroom project. In October, as demolition of the East Wing got underway, the AIA issued a further statement condemning the destruction. The AIA Public Policy and Government Relations Group is our organization's lead on matters of public policy. As AIA members, I encourage you to make your feelings known directly to them, as well as to the AIA Board and Strategic Council.

------------------------------
Robert Burns, AIA
2025 Chair
Historic Resources Committee Advisory Group
Richmond, VA
------------------------------

Dear HRC membership,

As chair of the HRC Advisory Group, I've been watching the conversations on the HRC Community Hub regarding the demolition of the White House East Wing and the proposed construction of the large ballroom addition with great interest. Although I have to believe most of the HRC membership would take issue with the lack of transparency and due process followed by the administration in undertaking this project, it appears the facts of the matter are that the White House-a National Historic Landmark-is not legally protected from alterations of the scale and scope of what is currently underway.

While many of us personally might come to a different conclusion than McCrery Architects with regard to accepting the ballroom commission, the liberty to choose to accept a controversial commission is not one I would feel comfortable abridging for any of our membership. The HRC is 9,600 members strong; the AIA has close to 100,000 members. We have a diversity of experiences and opinions, and architects will always find issues about which to vigorously debate.

As you well know, the AIA, in consultation with the HRC Advisory Group, issued a statement in August advising the administration to follow customary review and approval processes for the ballroom project. In October, as demolition of the East Wing got underway, the AIA issued a further statement condemning the destruction. The AIA Public Policy and Government Relations Group is our organization's lead on matters of public policy. As AIA members, I encourage you to make your feelings known directly to them, as well as to the AIA Board and Strategic Council.

------------------------------
Robert Burns, AIA
2025 Chair
Historic Resources Committee Advisory Group
Richmond, VA
------------------------------

For some reason my post from yesterday seems to have disappeared so I've posted it here again.  Did you or someone else remove it?  I think if it has been removed than all the attempts of detrimental comments and ridiculous comments trying to discredit my mental health about having Trump Derangement Syndrome about me should be removed instead.   History will judge those well who fight this current regime and for those who don't, oh well. I will post this in both of the threads of this discussion.:

George, Thank you for your support-I appreciate yours as well as the majority of our AIA Historic Resources Committee.  Whereas I'm trying to accomplish something positive in educating others in the illegal destruction of and saving what remains of the People's House there are 3 middle aged white men whom all live south of the Mason-Dixon line that seem to be out of place in our attempt to preserve our heritage.  I've no idea why they are involved in this discussion and have even considered marking their rantings as "Mark As Inappropriate" but will leave that to the AIA Historic Resources Committee Chair.  Take note Robert Burns, AIA.

I've not responded directly to them because that seems to be useless in the fact that they are under the spell of a regime that is a anti-Semitic, bigoted, fascist, misogynistic, racist and a white supremacist MAGA cult.  Their insults of accusing me of  "…a mental condition, non-stop deranged revenge rantings, Late-Term TDS (Trump Derangement Syndrome), where President Trump lives rent-free in your head.  Nazi Eagles everywhere!  South Park and Daily KOS (note that these both provide humorous views of the current regime's faults and if you can't find some humor these days then you should seek counseling and stopping watching Fox Noise and News Minimum!:) as respected sources!   If anyone in Alaska is reading any of this" , stating my "…work will drop off precipitously…" and urging me to "Please seek help and crank down the volume a LOT. You come across as a nutty mutterer" are amusing in that those insults reflect back on themselves.  I wear the alleged TDS (Trump Disparaging Syndrome!) with pride since I've participated in all the protests to date, had letters published in our news sources warning of and decrying this regime and their destruction of the East Wing as well as their other despicable actions, am antifa (Antifascist) as my grandfather Samuel Levinson was as he left Latvia in 1891 at age 16 to escape the Jewish Pogroms of the Germans, Russians and Latvians; and my parents who served in the Navy and my Jewish Latvian/Polish mother in the Women's Army Corps fighting fascists in WWII.  I do not suffer fools or authoritarians well!

These right-wing cults come and go and in my lifetime since birth in 1952 they've included the cult of McCarthyism; John Birch Society; **** Nixon who stated "…when the president does it, that means that it is not illegal"; the cult of Reagan brought us the "trickledown theory" which as we all know never worked and never will; W. Bush brought us the "neocon" and the "compassionate conservative"-both of which are oxymorons; "The Tea Party" was just more of the same especially directed at the first African American president, his attempt to bring Americans Universal Health Care (or Obamacare); and the most recent reiteration "MAGA", Make America Great Again which really means "Make America White (Male) Again" as white males see the country become browner and blacker they fear they are losing their power and they will. It's about time we had a woman President! We may feel that some of our friends and family (or some on the AIA Historic Resources Committee!) need an intervention to help release them from their MAGA cult, but if past is prologue they may just move on to the next one. There are now organizations that assist with interventions, but they may be useless as well and I would imagine not help these 3 "Negative Nelly's"!

Just this past Thursday I was awarded the "Robert Mitchell Historic Preservation Architect Award" by our statewide historic preservation association at Preservation Alaska's Annual Meeting. "This award is in memory of Robert Mitchell, AIA, long-time board member of Preservation Alaska and his work as an historic preservation architect. With his career spanning almost six decades, we salute his lifetime personal commitment and achievements in historic preservation by creating this special award for architects specializing in historic preservation. Awarded to: Samuel Duff Combs, AIA."  I was proud to receive this award because I worked with Bob as his first "historic preservation assistant" in 1978 for the State Historic Preservation Office and a multitude of projects over the past almost 50 years and he was one of my mentors.  Currently I serve as a mentor for a young woman who is a intern historic preservation architect working with the National Park Service in our AIA Alaska's new Mentorship Program and am proud to do so. I've worked with other young historic preservation architects and am proud of that work as I pass on my knowledge to others that realize that we as a nation need to preserve our history for our children and our children's children.

These 3 MAGA architects seem to think it's okay to pardon all the criminals from January 6th as well as other despicable criminals; okay to shut down the Federal Government because the Republicans want to give millionaires and billionaires more tax breaks and don't want to give the needy and poor food stamps; jail American citizens without cause because they happen to be brown or black; jail other brown, black and other minorities without due process and even send to torture jails in El Salvador and other places; gutting funds for medical research; appoint a deplorable cabinet that is unqualified, unfit and unhinged; gutting funds to Universities unless they toe the line and bend the knee to the president and end DEI (Diversity Equity Inclusion which we should all hope for); going after the LGBTQ+ Americans and especially transgendered individuals who in no way affect them at all in their daily despicable lives; shaming Ukraine President Zelensky (who is Jewish) and lauding criminal dictators in Putin, Kim Jon-il, Hu Jintao, Bibi Netanyahu (I'm Jewish but not a Zionist) and on and on; the idiotic tariffs that are hurting Americans; environmental degradation; ignoring court orders; killing people on alleged drug boats without any proof; mocking of people with disabilities; DOGE and the firing thousands of Federal employees without cause; the elimination of USAID (which was excellent soft diplomacy) which has and will cause the deaths of millions of people including the most vulnerable among us-the children; retribution against perceived enemies without any proof; destruction of the East Wing of the White House without any permitting or plan for the future, ignoring abatement laws, hiring an unqualified architect and doing so without a legal Qualifications Based Selection as required by law and the legal and ethical deficiencies of this "ballroom architect" as previously delineated by me that violate the AIA's Code of Ethics & Professional Conduct and established health laws and endangering the Health Welfare and Safety of American citizens ; and so many other problems with this regime it would take many books to delineate it all.

If these 3 architects think that the destruction of the East Wing of the White House is just fine with them and they see nothing wrong with it and that nothing illegal has been done or that this new ballroom doesn't have any features that would make anyone supporting the Third Reich very happy then they are the ones that have Trump Derangement Syndrome and have no place in the discussions here and as I've suggested before need to find another place to rant their MAGA inane statements.  That's all I have to say on their idiotic statements that have suggested nothing positive including their kindergarten school level insults to me.  I would suggest that they be ignored and/or removed from this positive discussion and left to stew in their happy ignorance. Again, please take note Robert Burns, AIA.

This current regime will be remembered in history as the worst administration to date and they will not be perceived well in the future.  Nor will the sycophants such as these 3 deranged (as they've accused me of being) architects in their uncivil, inane musings and accusations.  I also was part of the Society of Architectural Historians discussion last Friday and contributed with what we are trying to accomplish with our AIA Historic Resources Committee and I saw no involvement of any of these 3 despicable architects.  I'm done with them and will not respond to any more of their comments, insults or accusations and they might look in the mirror, but it's doubtful they have any self-reflection, nor will they have any epiphanies!

I will say it again as engrained in my Jewish heritage:  If not us, then who?  If not now, then when?

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 11-04-2025 04:22 PM
From: Robert Burns, AIA
Subject: White House Demolition and Ballroom Project

Dear HRC membership,

As chair of the HRC Advisory Group, I've been watching the conversations on the HRC Community Hub regarding the demolition of the White House East Wing and the proposed construction of the large ballroom addition with great interest. Although I have to believe most of the HRC membership would take issue with the lack of transparency and due process followed by the administration in undertaking this project, it appears the facts of the matter are that the White House-a National Historic Landmark-is not legally protected from alterations of the scale and scope of what is currently underway.

While many of us personally might come to a different conclusion than McCrery Architects with regard to accepting the ballroom commission, the liberty to choose to accept a controversial commission is not one I would feel comfortable abridging for any of our membership. The HRC is 9,600 members strong; the AIA has close to 100,000 members. We have a diversity of experiences and opinions, and architects will always find issues about which to vigorously debate.

As you well know, the AIA, in consultation with the HRC Advisory Group, issued a statement in August advising the administration to follow customary review and approval processes for the ballroom project. In October, as demolition of the East Wing got underway, the AIA issued a further statement condemning the destruction. The AIA Public Policy and Government Relations Group is our organization's lead on matters of public policy. As AIA members, I encourage you to make your feelings known directly to them, as well as to the AIA Board and Strategic Council.

------------------------------
Robert Burns, AIA
2025 Chair
Historic Resources Committee Advisory Group
Richmond, VA
------------------------------

Dear HRC membership,

As chair of the HRC Advisory Group, I've been watching the conversations on the HRC Community Hub regarding the demolition of the White House East Wing and the proposed construction of the large ballroom addition with great interest. Although I have to believe most of the HRC membership would take issue with the lack of transparency and due process followed by the administration in undertaking this project, it appears the facts of the matter are that the White House-a National Historic Landmark-is not legally protected from alterations of the scale and scope of what is currently underway.

While many of us personally might come to a different conclusion than McCrery Architects with regard to accepting the ballroom commission, the liberty to choose to accept a controversial commission is not one I would feel comfortable abridging for any of our membership. The HRC is 9,600 members strong; the AIA has close to 100,000 members. We have a diversity of experiences and opinions, and architects will always find issues about which to vigorously debate.

As you well know, the AIA, in consultation with the HRC Advisory Group, issued a statement in August advising the administration to follow customary review and approval processes for the ballroom project. In October, as demolition of the East Wing got underway, the AIA issued a further statement condemning the destruction. The AIA Public Policy and Government Relations Group is our organization's lead on matters of public policy. As AIA members, I encourage you to make your feelings known directly to them, as well as to the AIA Board and Strategic Council.

------------------------------
Robert Burns, AIA
2025 Chair
Historic Resources Committee Advisory Group
Richmond, VA
------------------------------

I believe that it is time that the AIA Historic Resources Committee members take action and the most straight forward action is I believe to write James C. McCrery, II, AIA directly and broach our questions to him.  Those who wish to sign on to this letter are welcome to do so and we can write this as the AIA Historic Resources Committee members or simply those who have the courage to sign on to the letter.  Those who are in favor of the demolition of the East Wing of the People's House can proceed on another course and start your own forum and either take your own actions or inactions.  I for one grow tired of the hurled insults from a few architects who seem to have no problem with the destruction of the White House and adhere and follow all things Trumpian.  I do not and will not tolerate any more inane comments on this thread or the other concerning this matter.  I will place this on the other thread concerning this matter and those who wish to follow both may do so.  Those who wish to pursue the justification of the destruction of the White House and the replacement with the giant out of scale ballroom may do so on another thread.  I've attached the letter for those who wish to review it and for any suggestions or comments.  Thank you.  Sam Combs, AIA, NCARB

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 11-04-2025 04:22 PM
From: Robert Burns, AIA
Subject: White House Demolition and Ballroom Project

Dear HRC membership,

As chair of the HRC Advisory Group, I've been watching the conversations on the HRC Community Hub regarding the demolition of the White House East Wing and the proposed construction of the large ballroom addition with great interest. Although I have to believe most of the HRC membership would take issue with the lack of transparency and due process followed by the administration in undertaking this project, it appears the facts of the matter are that the White House-a National Historic Landmark-is not legally protected from alterations of the scale and scope of what is currently underway.

While many of us personally might come to a different conclusion than McCrery Architects with regard to accepting the ballroom commission, the liberty to choose to accept a controversial commission is not one I would feel comfortable abridging for any of our membership. The HRC is 9,600 members strong; the AIA has close to 100,000 members. We have a diversity of experiences and opinions, and architects will always find issues about which to vigorously debate.

As you well know, the AIA, in consultation with the HRC Advisory Group, issued a statement in August advising the administration to follow customary review and approval processes for the ballroom project. In October, as demolition of the East Wing got underway, the AIA issued a further statement condemning the destruction. The AIA Public Policy and Government Relations Group is our organization's lead on matters of public policy. As AIA members, I encourage you to make your feelings known directly to them, as well as to the AIA Board and Strategic Council.

------------------------------
Robert Burns, AIA
2025 Chair
Historic Resources Committee Advisory Group
Richmond, VA
------------------------------

Note that there was a typo on the first letter uploaded so I've replaced it here.

I believe that it is time that the AIA Historic Resources Committee members take action and the most straight forward action is I believe to write James C. McCrery, II, AIA directly and broach our questions to him.  Those who wish to sign on to this letter are welcome to do so and we can write this as the AIA Historic Resources Committee members or simply those who have the courage to sign on to the letter.  Those who are in favor of the demolition of the East Wing of the People's House can proceed on another course and start your own forum and either take your own actions or inactions.  I for one grow tired of the hurled insults from a few architects who seem to have no problem with the destruction of the White House and adhere and follow all things Trumpian.  I do not and will not tolerate any more inane comments on this thread or the other concerning this matter.  I will place this on the other thread concerning this matter and those who wish to follow both may do so.  Those who wish to pursue the justification of the destruction of the White House and the replacement with the giant out of scale ballroom may do so on another thread.  I've attached the letter for those who wish to review it and for any suggestions or comments.  Thank you.  Sam Combs, AIA, NCARB

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 11-04-2025 04:22 PM
From: Robert Burns, AIA
Subject: White House Demolition and Ballroom Project

Dear HRC membership,

As chair of the HRC Advisory Group, I've been watching the conversations on the HRC Community Hub regarding the demolition of the White House East Wing and the proposed construction of the large ballroom addition with great interest. Although I have to believe most of the HRC membership would take issue with the lack of transparency and due process followed by the administration in undertaking this project, it appears the facts of the matter are that the White House-a National Historic Landmark-is not legally protected from alterations of the scale and scope of what is currently underway.

While many of us personally might come to a different conclusion than McCrery Architects with regard to accepting the ballroom commission, the liberty to choose to accept a controversial commission is not one I would feel comfortable abridging for any of our membership. The HRC is 9,600 members strong; the AIA has close to 100,000 members. We have a diversity of experiences and opinions, and architects will always find issues about which to vigorously debate.

As you well know, the AIA, in consultation with the HRC Advisory Group, issued a statement in August advising the administration to follow customary review and approval processes for the ballroom project. In October, as demolition of the East Wing got underway, the AIA issued a further statement condemning the destruction. The AIA Public Policy and Government Relations Group is our organization's lead on matters of public policy. As AIA members, I encourage you to make your feelings known directly to them, as well as to the AIA Board and Strategic Council.

------------------------------
Robert Burns, AIA
2025 Chair
Historic Resources Committee Advisory Group
Richmond, VA
------------------------------

Sam,

I am inclined to sign onto your letter. I will read it and get back to you. 
thank you for doing this. 
let's ignore the naysayers. 

also, after this perhaps our advocacy could/should include a petition to be issued to the general public. 

inda

Note that there was a typo on the first letter uploaded so I've replaced it here.

I believe that it is time that the AIA Historic Resources Committee members take action and the most straight forward action is I believe to write James C. McCrery, II, AIA directly and broach our questions to him.  Those who wish to sign on to this letter are welcome to do so and we can write this as the AIA Historic Resources Committee members or simply those who have the courage to sign on to the letter.  Those who are in favor of the demolition of the East Wing of the People's House can proceed on another course and start your own forum and either take your own actions or inactions.  I for one grow tired of the hurled insults from a few architects who seem to have no problem with the destruction of the White House and adhere and follow all things Trumpian.  I do not and will not tolerate any more inane comments on this thread or the other concerning this matter.  I will place this on the other thread concerning this matter and those who wish to follow both may do so.  Those who wish to pursue the justification of the destruction of the White House and the replacement with the giant out of scale ballroom may do so on another thread.  I've attached the letter for those who wish to review it and for any suggestions or comments.  Thank you.  Sam Combs, AIA, NCARB

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 11-04-2025 04:22 PM
From: Robert Burns, AIA
Subject: White House Demolition and Ballroom Project

Dear HRC membership,

As chair of the HRC Advisory Group, I've been watching the conversations on the HRC Community Hub regarding the demolition of the White House East Wing and the proposed construction of the large ballroom addition with great interest. Although I have to believe most of the HRC membership would take issue with the lack of transparency and due process followed by the administration in undertaking this project, it appears the facts of the matter are that the White House-a National Historic Landmark-is not legally protected from alterations of the scale and scope of what is currently underway.

While many of us personally might come to a different conclusion than McCrery Architects with regard to accepting the ballroom commission, the liberty to choose to accept a controversial commission is not one I would feel comfortable abridging for any of our membership. The HRC is 9,600 members strong; the AIA has close to 100,000 members. We have a diversity of experiences and opinions, and architects will always find issues about which to vigorously debate.

As you well know, the AIA, in consultation with the HRC Advisory Group, issued a statement in August advising the administration to follow customary review and approval processes for the ballroom project. In October, as demolition of the East Wing got underway, the AIA issued a further statement condemning the destruction. The AIA Public Policy and Government Relations Group is our organization's lead on matters of public policy. As AIA members, I encourage you to make your feelings known directly to them, as well as to the AIA Board and Strategic Council.

------------------------------
Robert Burns, AIA
2025 Chair
Historic Resources Committee Advisory Group
Richmond, VA
------------------------------