The value of new design contracts fell for the 18th consecutive month in August, marking the longest decline in 15 years of data, according to the American Institute of Architects.

The organization maintains the monthly AIA/Deltek Architecture Billings Index. The AIA pointed to a potential bounce-back in the survey, which was released Wednesday.

“While business conditions remained soft at architecture firms nationally, there are signs that the downturn may be bottoming out,” said Kermit Baker, AIA’s chief economist, in a prepared statement. “Inquiries for new projects have increased four straight months, and billings both at firms with a multifamily or commercial/industrial specialization are beginning to stabilize.”

Activity was weakest in the West and strongest in the South, according to the index.

The AIA stated that architects continue to see “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, many firms are expected to face continued declines in billing in the months to come.”

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The Alvarez family, led by Fatima, Noe and Jorge Alvarez, started Alvarez General Contractor in 2022 after developing expertise and experience in roofing over the last nearly 20 years.

The company works with all roof types, including flat, asphalt shingles, metal and shake. Its projects include multifamily, residential and commercial structures.

Fatima Alvarez said she wanted to become a part owner of the company to have a better life as she grows older. “I enjoy the freedom of not working for someone else and doing my work at my own pace,” she said.

As new members of NAMC-OR, the Alvarezes hope to build relationships with other members, get more involved and obtain more work opportunities. Along the way, Fatima Alvarez said, she is learning to evaluate the scope of the work at hand and always trust the process, advice she recommends to other small business owners.

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