While architecture billings moderated in September, design activity shows signs of remaining sluggish at U.S. architecture firms, according to a new report released today from the American Institute of Architects (AIA).
The Architecture Billings Index (ABI) score in September is 49.7, which improved from the August score of 47.2. However, any score below 50 indicates a decrease in billings. During September, both the new project inquiries and design contracts scores were positive, posting scores of 59.0 and 54.4 respectively.Â
“Though still in negative territory, the moderating billings score along with the rebound in design contracts and inquiries serve as a continued note of caution for the industry,” said AIA Chief Economist Kermit Baker, PhD, Hon. AIA. “Continued weakness in the larger economy still doesn’t bode well for future design services, which will likely see continued volatility in the months ahead.”
Â
Key ABI highlights for September include:Â
- Regional averages: South (52.3); West (51.3); Northeast (46.3); Midwest (45.3)
- Sector index breakdown: multi-family residential (53.2); mixed practice (53.0); institutional (48.5); commercial/industrial (45.3)
- Project inquiries index: 59.0
- Design contracts index: 54.4
The regional and sector categories are calculated as a three-month moving average, whereas the national index, design contracts and inquiries are monthly numbers.
Related Stories
Market Data | Sep 23, 2020
7 must reads for the AEC industry today: September 23, 2020
The new Theodore Presidential Library and the AIA/HUD's Secretary's Awards honor affordable, accessible housing.
Market Data | Sep 22, 2020
6 must reads for the AEC industry today: September 22, 2020
Construction employment declined in 39 states and no ease of lumber prices in sight.
Market Data | Sep 21, 2020
Washington is the US state with the most value of construction projects underway, says GlobalData
Of the top 10 largest projects in the Washington state, nine were in the execution stage as of August 2020.
Market Data | Sep 21, 2020
Construction employment declined in 39 states between August 2019 and 2020
31 states and DC added jobs between July and August.
Market Data | Sep 21, 2020
6 must reads for the AEC industry today: September 21, 2020
Four projects receive 202 AIA/ALA Library Building Award and Port San Antonio's new Innovation Center.
Market Data | Sep 18, 2020
Follow up survey of U.S. code officials demonstrates importance of continued investment in virtual capabilities
Existing needs highlight why supporting building and fire prevention departments at the federal, state, and local levels is critical. Â
Market Data | Sep 18, 2020
6 must reads for the AEC industry today: September 18, 2020
Sagrada Familia completion date pushed back and energy code appeals could hamper efficiency progress.
Market Data | Sep 17, 2020
6 must reads for the AEC industry today: September 17, 2020
Foster + Partners-designed hospital begins construction in Cairo and heat pumps are the future for hot water.
Market Data | Sep 16, 2020
6 must reads for the AEC industry today: September 16, 2020
REI sells unused HQ building and Adjaye Associates will design The Africa Institute.
Market Data | Sep 15, 2020
7 must reads for the AEC industry today: September 15, 2020
Energy efficiency considerations for operating buildings during a pandemic and is there really a glass box paradox?