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Billings from architectural firms indicate that the design industry is mired in an historic slump, the American Institute of Architects (AIA) said.

A slowdown in commercial construction is feeding the slump, AIA said in releasing its findings for December.

The December rating was 36.4, with 50 indicating an actual increase in billings. The number was slightly higher than November. The Midwest, including Iowa, fell slightly below the national average at 35.5.

Architectural billings typically precede construction activity by nine to 12 months, according to the Washington, D.C.-based organization.