Danielian Associates

  • Alaska modernizes its legislation on interior designers

    Alaska modernizes its legislation on interior designers

    Alaska passed House Bill (HB) 314, to institute a protected title and regulation for qualified interior designers. The bill also creates a registration pathway for formal recognition through the Board of Architects, Engineers and Land Surveyors.

    The legislation was heavily supported by the American Society of Interior Designers and its Consortium for Interior Design.

    Alaska is now the 31st state to enact reasonable regulation of the profession, following Idaho in March.

    “Today’s action marks an important milestone for Alaska and for the future of the design profession,” said Khoi Vo, president and chief executive officer, ASID. “HB 314 recognizes the education, experience and examination standards that qualified interior designers meet and ensures they can contribute more fully to the design and construction process. This legislation supports public safety, strengthens professional practice and creates new opportunities to serve communities across Alaska.”

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  • AIA/Deltek ABI reports decline

    AIA/Deltek ABI reports decline

    The latest AIA/Deltek Architecture Billings Index® (ABI) reported a decrease from its April posting of 48.3, down to 44.5. This is the lowest level since the beginning of 2026. Signaling effects from general economic uncertainty in the past few months, despite cautious optimism earlier in the year.

    The South remains the strongest regional market at 49.6, with the Northeast (46.2), West (45.4) and Midwest (45.3) trailing a bit behind.

    “The uncertainty created by the Iran conflict, and substantially higher energy costs, weighed on architect billings in May,” said AIA Chief Economist, Richard Branch. “Higher interest rates, rapidly rising material costs and continued labor shortages all contributed to softer demand.”

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  • California introduces $11.25 billion investment in housing

    California introduces $11.25 billion investment in housing

    The California Governor, State Assembly, and Senate introduced the  Veterans and Affordable Housing Bond Act of 2026, a  $11.25 billion investment to support veterans’ homeownership, housing development and affordability. The bill will be placed on the November 2026 ballot for voters to decide whether to adopt it.

    This statewide piece of legislation comes after a major federal investment in housing development, the 21st Century Road to Housing Act, passed by the House and Senate.

    In California, the bond is expected to invest in veterans and first-time homebuyers by providing down payment assistance and affordable mortgage financing. Specifically, $1.25 billion is allocated to the self-supporting revenue bonds for the CalVet Home Loan Program.

    “California has been building toward this moment. We’ve cut red tape, fast-tracked construction, protected renters,” said Speaker of the Assembly Robert Rivas. “And now, we’re going bigger: $11.25 billion for affordable housing to expand homeownership for veterans and working families, drive down costs and prove that the door to opportunity is open to everyone. This is California delivering.”

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  • First America Homes launches new Austin division, continuing texas expansion

    First America Homes launches new Austin division, continuing texas expansion

    First America Homes, one of Texas’s fastest-growing homebuilders, announced its expansion across Texas with a new Austin division. The builder is the homebuilding division of Texas real estate developer The Signorelli Company and currently operates in 12 active communities in the San Antonio area.

    This move follows First America Homes’ recent expansion into the Dallas–Fort Worth market, with homesites expected to open in July 2026.

    “Central Texas continues to benefit from strong market fundamentals and sustained population growth,” said Danny Signorelli, founder and CEO of The Signorelli Company. “That momentum creates tremendous opportunities for expansion as we bring more quality homes and exceptional living experiences to families across the region. With the financial strength, development expertise and long-term vision to execute, we’re investing strategically in new communities and creating lasting value for homeowners while strengthening our footprint across Texas.”

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