The post-recession expansion of design work began to slow earlier this year, and is now in full contraction in parts of the country and in parts of the architecture industry.
Non-residential construction in the United States continues to dip in the United States, in further evidence of a cooling industry and, potentially, economy, according to an article by Sydney Franklin.
"Per the AIA’s monthly Architecture Billings Index (ABI), the demand for design services on commercial, industrial, and mixed practice projects has fallen from a score of 50.1 in July to 47.2 in August," reports Franklin.
In May, the ABI ended 25 months of growth, reaching negative territory for the first time in two years. There was some good news, however, in the West and on institutional and multi-family residential projects, but also more bad news in other regions and project types.
FULL STORY: Architecture Billings Index dipped to record lows in August
Architecture Billings Are Still Declining, But Slower Than Earlier in the Pandemic
A critical economic bellwether is showing tentative signs of recovery.
Architecture Billings Show a Modest Rebound
Many architecture firms are still struggling, but the industry, a bellwether for planning and the larger economy, has recovered a little from the lows of the spring and summer months.
AIA Updates Ethics Code to Prohibit Design of Facilities Used for Solitary Confinement, Execution
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Using Old Oil and Gas Wells for Green Energy Storage
Penn State researchers have found that repurposing abandoned oil and gas wells for geothermal-assisted compressed-air energy storage can boost efficiency, reduce environmental risks, and support clean energy and job transitions.
Placekeeping: Setting a New Precedent for City Planners
How a preservation-based approach to redevelopment and urban design can prevent displacement and honor legacy communities.
San Diego Swaps Parking Lane for Kid-Friendly Mini Park
The block-long greenway will feature interactive play equipment and landscaping.
Tracking the Invisible: Methane Leaks From LA’s Neighborhood Oil Sites
Environmental advocates are using infrared technology to monitor and document methane leaks from neighborhood oil sites, filling regulatory gaps and pushing for stronger protections to safeguard community health and the climate.
Montana Bill Promotes Parking Reform
A bill before the Montana state senate would bar cities from requiring more than one parking spot per new housing unit.
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