ABI Shows Growth in Design Activity

The American Institute of Architects reported the August Architectural Billings Index showed faster growth in design activity nationally, with a score of 53.8, up from a mark of 52.7 in July. The growth reflects an increase in demand for design services, according to the report.

“As business conditions at architecture firms have improved eleven out of the past twelve months, it is fair to say that the design professions are in a recovery mode,” said AIA Chief Economist, Kermit Baker, PhD, in the AIA release. “This upturn signals an impending turnaround in nonresidential construction activity, but a key component to maintaining this momentum is the ability of businesses to obtain financing for real estate projects, and for a resolution to the federal government budget and debt ceiling impasse.”