Architecture Billings Index Up Sharply in September

Washington, DC, Oct. 22, 2014 -- The Architecture Billings Index rose in September due to rising demand for institutional projects.

The index rose to 55.2 last month from 53.0 in August, the American Institute of Architects said.

Readings above 50 indicates an increase in billings.

Demand for institutional projects has surged in the second half of the year, AIA said. September’s score of 54.9 is up from August’s 54.6 and is the fourth consecutive month of growth following nine months of contractions.

Design activity for the multifamily residential sector remains strong, although the September 55.3 score is down from August’s 56.9. However, it marks three years of scores above 50 for the category.

The AIA said it added a new indicator to measure trends in new design contracts at architecture firms. The score for design contracts in August was 56.8.

"Strong demand for apartment buildings and condominiums has been one of the main drivers in helping to keep the design and construction market afloat in recent years," AIA Chief Economist Kermit Baker said in a press release.

The new projects inquiry index rose to 64.8 in September from 62.6 in August.

Print the Article