AIA Architects' Billings Starting to Stabilize

Architects are still having a rough go of it, but the latest AIA/Deltek Architecture Billings Index says business conditions are starting to improve for some design firms
Oct. 23, 2025
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American Institute of Architects - Deltek Architecture Billings Index

In August, architecture firms experienced continued softness, according to the monthly survey published by the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and Deltek. August's AIA/Deltek Architecture Billings Index (ABI) was 47.2 points, still under the 50-point market indicating growth.
This year has been characterized by soft inquiries and a steady drop in newly signed design contracts, as clients remain hesitant to commit to new projects. With limited new work ahead, AIA expects many firms  to face continued declines in billings in the months to come.
“While business conditions remained soft at architecture firms nationally, there are signs that the downturn may be bottoming out,” said Kermit Baker, AIA chief economist, in the press release. “Inquiries for new projects have increased four straight months, and billings both at firms with a multi-family or commercial/industrial specialization are beginning to stabilize.”