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    Analysis

    January 22, 2026

    AIA: Architecture sector struggles through 2025 despite solid backlogs

    Written by David Schollaert

    Architecture firms across the United States continued to face weak business conditions through the end of 2025, as economic conditions added to the uncertainty, according to the latest Architecture Billings Index (ABI) report from the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and Deltek.

    “Despite the ongoing decline in billings at most architecture firms, there are a few signs of potential improvement on the horizon,” said AIA Chief Economist Kermit Baker. “The number of inquiries into future project work continues to grow, and Midwest firms saw billings increase for the fourth consecutive month in December.”

    David Schollaert

    David Schollaert is deputy editor-in-chief for Steel Market Update. David joined SMU after more than a decade in the metals and mining industry in a myriad of different roles. Much of his early experience and expertise were within the coverage and analysis of steel-making raw materials and served previously as senior editor of the CRU Prices Service. Most recently, however, before his return to market analysis, David held roles as a metals buyer and an operations manager for raw material suppliers. He can be contacted at david@steelmarketupdate.com or 724-720-1008.

    Read more from David Schollaert

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