Architecture Billings Contract Slightly in January

Washington, DC, Feb. 18, 2015 -- Following a nine-month stretch of positive billings, the Architecture Billings Index showed no increase in design activity in January.

The American Institute of Architects reported the January ABI score was 49.9, down from a mark of 52.7 in December. Any score above 50 indicates an increase in billings.

The new projects inquiry index was 58.7, down from a reading of 59.1 the previous month.

“This easing in demand for design services is a bit of a surprise given the overall strength of the market over the past nine months,” said AIA Chief Economist Kermit Baker.

“Likely some of this can be attributed to severe weather conditions in January. We will have a better sense if there is a reason for more serious concern over the next couple of months.”

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