But with the employment demand for architects at an all-time high, this theory has been debunked, perhaps forever. D.C. The gains are due to recent increases in project fees coupled with the tremendous demand for architects nationwide. In February, recruiters reported so many openings for architects that in some cities, the profession was enjoying a near-zero unemployment rate. Although 1999 was a strong hiring year for architects, demand in 2000 is greater and is expected to increase as the year progresses. If I had 100 project architects now, I could get them hired immediately.
Demographics are behind the short supply.
Unable to find work, many young professionals simply switched careers. I see many senior architects changing jobs now because they know their value in the marketplace is greater than it has ever been and may be again. Although interest rates increased in early 2000 and may cause construction activity to decline from 1999 levels, the outlook for the architectural design industry appears bright. Education, office and institutional construction sectors are expected to remain strong, though hotel and motel construction may decline, the AIA reports. Moreover, the improved business conditions in 1999 allowed many firms to negotiate higher fees for projects.