44 Percent of Design Activity is Devoted to Existing Building Projects

The results of the 2018 AIA Firm Survey Report reveal that 44 percent of design activity is dedicated to improving existing buildings. Typically, existing building work shrinks during strong construction markets (like the one we are currently experiencing), but this time it has continued to hold steady. The persistent activity demonstrates the shift in owner focus to making current assets as valuable as possible—and the impact of incentives for investment in improvements versus replacement. Through existing-building work, architects can continue to have a tremendous impact on improving the efficiency of structures, combating the impact of climate change, and preserving our history.