WASHINGTON, D.C. — Following consistently increasing demand for design services throughout most of 2013, the Architecture Billings Index has posted its first consecutive months of contraction since May and June of 2012.   As a leading economic indicator of construction activity, the ABI reflects the approximate nine- to twelve-month lead time between architecture billings and construction spending.   The American Institute of Architects reported the December ABI score was 48.5, down from a mark of 49.8 in November.   This score reflects a decrease in design services (any score above 50 indicates an increase in billings).   The new projects … Read more

Total construction spending increased between October and November and for the year amid growing private-sector demand, according to an analysis of new U.S. Census Bureau data by the Associated General Contractors of America. Association officials noted, however, that the spending levels were held back by declining public sector investments for both the month and the year. “The nonresidential construction spending figures are even more positive than they appear, with most categories now positive year-over-year,” said Ken Simonson, the association’s chief economist. “The outlook appears favorable for many types of private nonresidential and multifamily construction, but remains flat or negative for … Read more