According to data from the American Institute of Architects (AIA), compensation for architects has experienced a decline of over 25% between 2007 and 2010. With the demand for new projects sliding, it’s important for facility managers, building owners, and anyone related to the construction or architectural field to keep note of these developments
As other related fields feel the pressure from the recession and associated cutbacks and project cuts, architecture has had to deal with a decline in demand for design services.
“In addition to reducing benefits offered to employees, architecture firms have been faced with devastating conditions and had to make difficult reductions in expenses,” says AIA Chief Economist, Kermit Baker, PhD, Hon. AIA. “Salary freezes or reductions, scaled back hours, the conversion of full-time to part-time or contract positions, and mandatory furloughs have all taken a toll on the compensation of architects.”
Staff architecture positions experienced an average increase in total compensation of only $1,600 during 2008-2011, according to the 2011 American Institute of Architects (AIA) Compensation Survey.
