Architecture Billings Index Records Increase for October

Washington, DC, November 15, 2017-The American Institute of Architects (AIA) reported the October ABI score was 51.7, up from a score of 49.1 in the previous month.

This score reflects an increase in design services provided by U.S. architecture firms (any score above 50 indicates an increase in billings).

The new projects inquiry index was 60.2, up from a reading of 59.0 the previous month, while the new design contracts index eased slightly from 52.9 to 52.8.

“As we enter the fourth quarter, there is enough design activity occurring that construction conditions should remain healthy moving through 2018,” said AIA chief economist, Kermit Baker, Hon. AIA, PhD. “Extended strength in inquiries and new design contracts, along with balanced growth across the major building sectors signals further gains throughout the construction industry.”

In September, the regional averages were as follows: Northeast, 54.0; South, 50.8; West, 49.8; and Midwest, 49.0.

The sector index breakdown is as follows: commercial/industrial, 51.2; mixed practice, 50.7; multi-family residential, 50.7; institutional, 50.7.

The product inquiries index was 60.2, and the design contracts index was 52.8.

Print the Article