WASHINGTON – Nov. 14, 2018 - Architecture firm billings growth softened in October but remained positive for the thirteenth consecutive month, according to a new report today from The American Institute of Architects (AIA).

AIA’s Architecture Billings Index (ABI) score for October was 50.4 compared to 51.1 in September. With continued strength in new project inquiries, billings are expected to remain steady into the coming months.

"The effects of the 2018 hurricane season are the probable cause of the temporary contraction in billings in the Southern region,” said AIA Chief Economist Kermit Baker, Hon. AIA, PhD. “This decrease in demand for design services is limited, and the region should rebound over the next several months."

Key ABI highlights for October include:

Regional averages: Midwest (57.8), Northeast (51.8), South (48.4), West (46.9)

Sector index breakdown: mixed practice (52.7), multi-family residential (52.3), institutional (52.0), commercial/industrial (48.9)

Project inquiries index: 58.6

Design contracts index: 52.8

Regional and sector categories above are calculated as a three-month moving average, whereas the national index, design contracts, and inquiries are monthly numbers.

More information on AIA’s ABI is available online.

About AIA

Founded in 1857, AIA consistently works to create more valuable, healthy, secure, and sustainable buildings, neighborhoods, and communities. Through more than 200 international, state and local chapters, AIA advocates for public policies that promote economic vitality and public wellbeing.

AIA provides members with tools and resources to assist them in their careers and business as well as engaging civic and government leaders and the public to find solutions to pressing issues facing our communities, institutions, nation, and world. Members adhere to a code of ethics and conduct to ensure the highest professional standards.