Architectural index rises in December

By: Nathalie Weinstein//January 19, 2011//

Architectural index rises in December

Nathalie Weinstein//January 19, 2011//

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The American Institute of Architects Architectural Billings Index continued to climb in December 2010.

After the index hit its highest mark since 2007 in November, it rose more than two points in December, increasing from 52 to 54.2. The Architectural Billings Index reflects the nine to 12 month lag time between billings and construction spending. Any score over 50 indicates an increase in architectural billings.

Multifamily residential construction continued to rise in December, from 54.3 in November to 60.1. Commercial and industrial projects also rose from below the 50 point threshold to 52.7 in December. The Western U.S. was the only region that did not see an increase in billings in December, with 48.4 points.