The AIA Architecture Billings Index, a key indicator of construction activity, leveled off in January after strengthening late in 2010, the American Institute of Architects reported.

But the index suggested that demand for design services was at least holding steady.

The AIA said the January ABI score was 50.0, down from a reading of 53.9 the previous month. The score reflects stable demand for design services, as any score above 50 indicates an increase in billings. The index reflects the approximate nine- to 12-month lag time between architecture billings and construction spending.

The new-projects inquiry index was 56.5, down sharply from a mark of 61.6 in December.

Key figures for the January Architecture Billings Index include the following.

  • Regional averages were 56.4 for the Midwest, 51.5 for the South, 50.4 for the Northeast, and 47.3 for the West.
  • By sector, index readings were 54.6 for commercial/industrial, 53.7 for multifamily residential, 51.3 for institutional, and 48.7 for mixed practice.
  • The project inquiries index reading was 56.5.

See our earlier blog post on the AIA Architecture Billings Index.