The AIA/Deltek Architecture Billings Index (ABI) fell to 43.2 in April, down from 44.1 in March, signaling a sharper decline in billings across U.S. architecture firms. This marks the 28th decline in the past 31 months, as the sector continues to feel the effects of economic uncertainty following the post-pandemic surge.
Key insights from the April ABI report:
- Billings Index: 43.2 (anything below 50 indicates a decrease in activity)
- Project Inquiries: 48.0, the third straight monthly decline
- Design Contracts: 43.3, continuing a 14-month streak of declines
Regional ABI Scores:
- South: 46.2
- Midwest: 44.4
- West: 42.1
- Northeast: 40.2
Sector Highlights:
- Mixed Practice: 47.6
- Institutional: 46.3
- Multifamily Residential: 40.8
- Commercial/Industrial: 40.5
Despite the slowdown, firm staffing remains steady and project backlogs are holding up better than expected, according to AIA Chief Economist Kermit Baker, PhD.
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