A new report today from the American Institute of Architects (AIA) reveals the immediate impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on architecture firms in the U.S.
A recent AIA survey found that 50% of architecture firms reported fewer new design projects for March—as of the March 23 survey date—as compared to their expectations entering the month. In terms of work on active projects, the overwhelming majority of architecture firms (83%) are anticipating a decline in revenue for March relative to their expectations heading into the month, with over a third of firms estimating that their revenue will be at least 10% below expectations. This situation is anticipated to worsen in April, with 94% of firms expecting revenue declines, and over half of firms (57%) anticipating that the revenue falloff will exceed 10%.
“Like most other businesses, U.S. architecture firms are heading into uncharted waters regarding what the economy holds in store for them as the COVID-19 pandemic plays out globally.,” said AIA Chief Economist, Kermit Baker, Hon. AIA, PhD. “Different businesses are feeling the impact of the slowdown differently.”
Beyond billing activity, just under half of firms (48%) indicated that all, or almost all, of their staff are now working remotely, while 31% reported that some of their staff are working remotely. Few firms reported a major impact to their staff due to family/personal reasons, but 15% of firms said that at least some of their staff are currently unable to work at all.
Visit AIA’s website to access the full report.
Related Stories
Coronavirus | Aug 3, 2020
Exploring the airborne transmission of the coronavirus and strategies for mitigating risk
Health authorities say it’s important to understand the dangers of microdroplets. How might indoor ventilation need to change?
Coronavirus | Jul 31, 2020
The Weekly show: Microhospitals, mass timber, and the outlook for 5 key building sectors
The July 30 episode of BD+C's "The Weekly" is available for viewing on demand.
University Buildings | Jul 24, 2020
A hybrid learning approach could redefine higher education
Universities reassess current assets to determine growth strategies.
Coronavirus | Jul 20, 2020
Student housing amid the pandemic, infection control in buildings, and future airport design on "The Weekly"
Experts from Core Spaces, Bala Consulting Engineers, and Populous were interviewed in the July 23 streaming program from Horizon TV.
Coronavirus | Jul 17, 2020
Never waste a crisis
The coronavirus outbreak has provided numerous lessons for AEC firms.
Coronavirus | Jul 17, 2020
The Weekly show: What 40K workers have to say about WFH, and design in the digital age
This week on The Weekly, BD+C editors spoke with leaders from Cushman & Wakefield, HMC Architects, and HOK on three timely topics.
Coronavirus | Jul 14, 2020
Is there a way to test for Covid-19 without PPE?
We developed a unique design concept: a testing booth that allows healthcare workers to administer tests without using PPE or being exposed.
Coronavirus | Jul 13, 2020
4 technologies for improving building sanitization in a post-pandemic society
Changes in building design and operations can drastically improve public health and safety.
Coronavirus | Jul 10, 2020
HOK, Cushman & Wakefield, and HMC Architects hold sway on July 16 "The Weekly"
“The Weekly,” a new streaming program for the commercial design and construction industry, to feature experts from HOK, Cushman & Wakefield, and HMC Architects. Tune in July 16 for insight on social media and interior design, the future of the workplace, and healthcare design after COVID-19.
Coronavirus | Jul 10, 2020
The Weekly show: Carbon-fiber reinforced concrete buildings and back to campus amid COVID-19
The July 9 episode of BD+C's "The Weekly" is available for viewing on demand.
