Business conditions remained soft in September, according to the AIA/Deltek Architecture Billing Index (ABI). September’s ABI dropped to 43.3, with billings down in all regions except in the Midwest, where they were essentially flat. New project inquiries were also flat for the second consecutive month.

Architecture firms also reported backlog averages of 6.1 months, down from 6.5 months at the beginning of the year. Backlogs averaged five months at firms with multifamily residential and commercial/industrial specializations, but eight months at those with an institutional specialization. 

That said, there is room for optimism. A recent survey by the Architectural Woodwork Institute saw gains in gross profit and operating profits for all firms compared to 2024 figures, as noted in the 205 Cost of Doing Business Survey. At survey time, slightly more than half (51%) also said they planned to invest more than $100,000 in the next six months, compared to 45% last year.

The 2025 Wood Industry Almanac is sponsored by IMA Schelling Group.

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Quick Stats (Includes items not shown in print.)

• ASID’s 2025 Trends Outlook identifies neuro-inclusive design as one of the forces shaping the landscape. With well-being taking center stage in commercial and residential spaces, designers are creating environments that positively influence brain function and behavior, including features like circadian-friendly lighting.

• AWI’s 2025 COBD survey finds 41% of architectural woodwork firms outsource their installation completely to contractors.

• The Q4 2025 Houzz Renovation Barometer reveals sentiment in the architectural and design sectors is relatively positive. Project inquiries rose 1 point to 58, with a 2-point increase in committed projects, to 60. Architects reported a 1-point increase in expectations for Q4, to 58, while interior designers reported a 2-point increase, now at 61. A score above 50 suggests that more businesses in both groups anticipate improved business activity in Q4 compared with Q3.

Market Data Sources: Architectural Woodwork Institute (AWI), The American Institute of Architects (AIA), AIA/Deltek/ABI,  Houzz American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), Architectural Woodwork Manufacturers Association of Canada. Category: Architectural & Custom includes: commercial & residential interior millwork, architectural woodwork, casework & cabinetry.

More data on North American woodworking and the specific wood product market segments can be found in the December 2025 FDMC Wood Industry Almanac. digital edition or the online almanac articles. Also, find market data year-round at WoodworkingNetwork.com/news/almanac-market-data.