Architecture Billings Start Year on Strong Note

February 21, 2018

Optimistic Outlook for 1st Quarter

“With strong billings and healthy growth in new projects to start the year, firms remain generally optimistic about business conditions for the next several months,” said American Institute of Architects Chief Economist Kermit Baker, Hon. AIA, describing the release of the January 2018 Architecture Billings Index (ABI).

At 54.7, up from December’s score of 52.8, the January ABI reached its highest score since January of 2007.

The new projects inquiry index was 61.1, down nearly a point from last month’s score of 62. The new design contracts index increased from 53.4 to 53.9.

Baker added, “Healthy conditions continue across all sectors and regions except the Northeast, where firm billings softened for the second consecutive month.”