ABI inches back into positive territory

On the heels of a nearly three-point increase, the Architecture Billings Index climbed into positive terrain for the first time in five months this August. The 

“Until the economy is on firmer ground, there aren’t likely to be strong increases in demand for design services,” said AIA Chief Economist Kermit Baker, in a Sept. 19 release. “In the meantime, we can expect to see design activity alternate between modest growth and modest decline.”

The Southern region garnered the highest score at 52.2, followed by the West at 51.2, Northeast at 45.5 and Midwest at 45.3. Multi-family residential projects had a score of 53.0; institutional, 50.2; commercial / industrial, 47.9; and mixed practice, 46.8.

About the AIA Architecture Billings Index

The Architecture Billings Index (ABI), produced by the 

About The American Institute of Architects

For over 150 years, members of the American Institute of Architects have worked with each other and their communities to create more valuable, healthy, secure, and sustainable buildings and cityscapes. Members adhere to a code of ethics and professional conduct to ensure the highest standards in professional practice. Embracing their responsibility to serve society, AIA members engage civic and government leaders and the public in helping find needed solutions to pressing issues facing our communities, institutions, nation and world.