
Results of the May 2011 ASID Business Performance Survey indicate that business conditions for the interior design industry may have also hit a soft patch similar to the broader U.S. economy. Nonetheless, the Interior Design Index stayed in the positive range, although just barely.
The ASID Interior Design Billings Index declined again in May, from 56.0 in April to 50.3, the lowest point this year. The May Inquiries Index shifted upward slightly again, from 58.2 to 58.4. These results are consistent with, but more positive than, the May AIA Billings Index of 47.2 and Inquiries Index of 52.6, respectively.
Both residential and office design experienced notable increases for the second month in a row. Hospitality, health care and government showed modest gains.
Medium-sized firms, which had reported major gains in April, reported declines in May, while larger ones had sizable increases. Small firms continue to do well overall.
Designers report pent up client demand, but clients are reluctant or unable to undertake new projects due to economic uncertainty, financing restrictions and a sluggish recovery.