The Architecture Billings Index (ABI) returned to positive territory after a slight dip in August, and has seen growth in six of the nine months of 2015. As an economic indicator of construction activity, the ABI reflects the approximate nine to 12 month lead time between architecture billings and construction spending. The American Institute of Architects (AIA) reported the September ABI score was 53.7, up from a mark of 49.1 in August. This score reflects an increase in design services (any score above 50 indicates an increase in billings). The new projects inquiry index was 61.0, down from a reading of 61.8 the previous month.
“Aside from uneven demand for design services in the Northeast, all regions are project sectors are in good shape,” said AIA Chief Economist Kermit Baker, Hon. AIA, PhD. “Areas of concern are shifting to supply issues for the industry, including volatility in building materials costs, a lack of a deep enough talent pool to keep up with demand, as well as a lack of contractors to execute design work.”
Key September ABI highlights:
- Regional averages: South (54.5), Midwest (54.2), West (51.7), Northeast (43.7)
- Sector index breakdown: mixed practice (52.6), institutional (51.5), commercial / industrial (50.9) multi-family residential (49.5)
- Project inquiries index: 61.0
- Design contracts index: 53.2
The regional and sector categories are calculated as a 3-month moving average, whereas the national index, design contracts and inquiries are monthly numbers.
Related Stories
Greenbuild Report | Nov 30, 2015
10 megatrends shaping the future of green building
Increased competition among green building rating systems, the rise of net-zero buildings, and a sharper focus on existing structures are among the trends that will drive sustainability through 2020, according to author and green building expert Jerry Yudelson.
Contractors | Nov 24, 2015
FMI survey: Millennials in construction get a bad rap, tend to be loyal, hard-working
While the stigma exists that Millennials are entitled, disloyal, and lazy, it appears that this is not true, according to a new report from FMI.
Cultural Facilities | Nov 23, 2015
BIG plans for Pittsburgh: Bjarke Ingels’ Lower Hill District master plan evokes hilly topography
Paths will be carved to create a dialogue between Pittsburgh’s urbanscape and its hilly surroundings.
Architects | Nov 23, 2015
Dewberry acquires Houston’s Wilson Architectural Group
Now known as Dewberry | Wilson, the firm will have access to more MEP, technology design, site/civil, and land development capabilities.
Architects | Nov 19, 2015
Book helps prevent new architecture students from making common mistakes
Written by Iain Jackson, "The Architecture School Survival Guide" covers both broad designing ideas and specific architecture tips.
Architects | Nov 18, 2015
AIA: Demand for design services still up for the year
October's ABI score was 53.1, down slightly from the mark of 53.7 in September. This still reflects an increase in design services, as any score above 50 indicates an increase in billings.
Architects | Nov 16, 2015
Croatia's 'sea organ' lets the ocean make music
Visitors to the shores of the Adriatic Sea in Zadar, Croatia, can hear the sounds of the ocean in an entirely different way. There, when the waves hit the coast, they make music—literally.
Architects | Nov 16, 2015
Perkins Eastman, ForrestPerkins combine practices
The combined international firm will total almost 1,000 employees.
Architects | Nov 10, 2015
AIA releases nine new contract documents
Include six new forms for design-build projects.
Architects | Nov 9, 2015
Perkins+Will acquires London-based Portland Design Associates
The firms will work together to offer “future-proofing” insights to clients.
