The second edition of the study on architectural policies in Europe, published by the Architects’ Council of Europe (ACE), provides a comprehensive overview of the development, implementation, and impact of public policies that promote architectural quality and the culture of the built environment (Baukultur) across the continent.

Based on a pan-European survey and rigorous comparative analysis, the report identifies 36 national and regional administrations that have adopted formal architectural policies, categorised into legislative, strategic, and sectoral approaches. The study underscores the growing recognition of architecture as a matter of public interest, as well as the influence of European initiatives such as the New European Bauhaus and the Davos Declaration in shaping a political culture oriented towards design excellence.

The report highlights the crucial role of institutional actors — from state architects to cultural centres and professional organisations — in the implementation of these policies, and stresses the need for both formal and informal tools to ensure their effectiveness. Among the most widely used instruments are design competitions, architecture awards, educational programmes, and platforms for citizen participation. It also notes a significant rise in municipal-level policies, particularly in Nordic countries, alongside a trend towards the revision and modernisation of existing regulatory frameworks.

The study concludes that, for these policies to have a tangible impact on the governance of urban design, they must be adequately funded, well-coordinated, and supported by an institutional culture committed to the quality of the built environment.