Architectural Billings Index Closed Q1 on Positive Note

Washington, DC, April 21, 2016—The March Architectural Billings Index (ABI) score was 51.9, up from the mark of 50.3 in the previous month, according to the American Institute of Architects (AIA).

The new projects inquiry index was 58.1, down from a reading of 59.5 the previous month.

“The first quarter was somewhat disappointing in terms of the growth of design activity, but fortunately expanded a bit entering the traditionally busy spring season. The Midwest is lagging behind the other regions, but otherwise business conditions are generally healthy across the country,” said AIA chief economist, Kermit Baker, Hon. AIA, PhD. “As the institutional market has cooled somewhat after a surge in design activity a year ago, the multi-family sector is reaccelerating at a healthy pace.”

Regional averages for March were as follows: south, 52.4; northeast, 51.0; west, 50.4; and Midwest, 49.8.

The sector index breakdown was multi-family residential, 55.7; commercial / industrial, 51.8; mixed practice, 50.0; and institutional, 48.0.

The project inquiries index was 58.1, and the design contracts index was 51.8.

Print the Article