2017 Ends With Strong Architecture Billings Index

2017 ended with a tailwind of increased architectural activity. The ABI records architectural billings on commercial building projects. Any value greater than 50 means that architecture billings are increasing; conversely, any value less than 50 means billings are decreasing. The ABI is a leading indicator of commercial building construction by approximately nine to 12 months.

While weaker than November's ABI of 55, the December figure of 52.9 is still a strong result. The new project inquiry metric increased to 61.9, up from 61.1 in November.

Here's is the regional breakdown for December 2017:

• West: 53.0 (down from November's 54.8)
• Northeast: 49.4 (down from 52.8, moving into declining range)
• South: 56.3 (up from 52.8)
• Midwest: 52.9 (versus 50.4 in November)

Sector Averages for December 2017:

• Multi-family Residential: 55.4 (up from 53.9 in November)
• Commercial/Industrial: 54.8 (versus 53.3)
• Mixed Practice: 50.4 (down from 53.6 in the previous month)
• Institutional: 51.2 (declining from 52.4)

Overall, this month's data is pretty strong, with the Northeast showing the only declining billings. Let's hope this tailwind carries us to a strong 2018.