Architects: Business Conditions Strong, But Slowing

A recently published survey of business conditions by the American Institute of Architects (AIA) concludes that business conditions remain relatively healthy in most regions in the country. Geographically, strongest business conditions were reported in the Western Mountain, Texas and Middle Atlantic regions. Weaknesses were reported in Michigan and in the Florida/Caribbean and Ohio Valley regions.

The survey also reported on market sectors. A fairly large decline in business conditions was reported in the residential sector, with the exception of the Middle Atlantic region. Commercial, industrial and institutional sectors reportedly remain generally solid.

The demand for architects remains generally steady. The survey reports that the highest demand is for experienced architects with 8-10 years of experience. The demand for architects is successively weaker for architects with 3-6 years experience, managers/senior managers, and intern architects.

To see the summary report of this survey in AIA Architect This Week, Volume 14, October 12, 2007, click here. This entry is published by Ken Michael, a member of Womble Carlyle’s real estate development and construction practice group.