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American Institute of Building Design (AIBD)

Shelter costs push CPI higher in August [Monday Minute]

Published about 3 hours ago • 3 min read

September 15, 2025, Edition

Ignite your mind and improve the way you are #CreatingWherePeopleLive

This weekly newsletter

is created by and for those designing homes in North America.

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Its editorial staff is the American Institute of Building Design, Inc., the premier association of residential design professionals.

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Here's what you get:

  • Industry News
  • Announcements
  • Events & Training
  • Recent Committee Activities
  • Amazing sponsors who help keep this newsletter free for the industry.

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Let's dive in.

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Industry News

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Shelter costs push CPI higher in August.

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In August 2025, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for all urban consumers increased by 0.4 percent on a seasonally adjusted basis, following a 0.2 percent rise in July. The primary contributors to this monthly increase were higher costs for shelter, food, and energy. Shelter prices rose 0.4 percent, becoming the most significant single factor

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

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Outlook for New-Home Sales Brightens When You Look to the Northeast and Midwest.

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Promising opportunities can be found in markets where affordability and supply conditions favor builders.

Source: BUILDER

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NEW NFIB SURVEY: Small Business Optimism Improves Again

The Small Business Optimism Index rose slightly to 100.8, above the 52-year average of 98.

Labor quality remains the top issue for small business owners, with 21% citing it as their biggest problem.

Source: NFIB

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9 Must-Know Principles of Japanese Interior Design

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The serene Japandi design aesthetic, which blends Japanese and Scandinavian styles, is gaining popularity in the US. This peaceful decorating style promotes relaxation by combining elements from both regions. To truly understand Japandi, it’s helpful to know the basics of Japanese design.

Source: Better Homes and Gardens

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4 off-the-grid ideas to rebuild after the L.A. fires from design students

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The Zeigler House, located at 509 Shelby St. in Frankfort, was designed by Wright in 1910, in the early stage of the pioneering architect’s career. It has been put up for sale by its owners, which means we get to see inside.

Source: Los Angeles Times

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Announcements

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Welcome New Members

And those returning

Dean Chouinard (NC) Professional

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Events & Training

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AIBD Chapters, Boards, and Councils

Click the links to view the topics and add to your calendar.

September 16 - National Council of Building Designer Certification (Virtual) 11:00 am ET.

September 17 - Western North Carolina Chapter (Virtual) 3:30 pm ET

September 17 - Eastern Shore Chapter (Virtual) 3:30 pm ET

September 19 - Central Oklahoma Chapter (in Person) - 10:00 am CT - Dolese Support Services Center

September 24 - Tri-State OKI Chapter (Virtual) 10:00 am ET

October 1 - Board of Directors (Virtual) 4:00 pm ET

Change of Date!

September 30 (new date)

​Residential Design Connect Colorado

Registration is OPEN!

(In Person) 9:00 am to 4:00 pm MT - Douglas County Library, 100 S Wilcox St, Castle Rock, CO 80104.

AIBD Webinars

September 16 - High-Performance Homes Team - 2:00 p.m. ET - Mini-Split Systems (1.0 P4 CE)

September 25 - 3:00 p.m. ET - Is it Time to Become an Employee Again? (1.0 P2 CE)

September 30 - CE Watch Party - 2:00 p.m. ET - Terrazzo Resilience: Crafting Endurance Through Artistry (1.0 P4 CE)

October 7 - 2:00 p.m. ET - Chief Architect Series Q & A (1.0 P3 CE)

October 10 - Coffee with Bernie - 10:00 am ET - Do you know your building official?

Training Events

Hosted By AIBD CE Providers

AEC Daily - ​Look for in-person and virtual events.

Building Component Manufacturers Conference (BCMC) 2025, Omaha, Nebraska, September 29 - October 3. Register​

Residential Design Connect Colorado - September 30 Sign Up or Sponsor​

Green Home Institute - ​Look for in-person and virtual events.

SoftPlan - Virtual training dates​

Traditional Building Conference - Tappan Hill Mansion, NY - October 7 & 8, 2025 - Info​rmation​

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Recent Committee Activities

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Board of Directors approves a new Phoenix Metro Chapter.

During their monthly meeting, the AIBD Board of Directors approved the establishment of a professional chapter in Phoenix, AZ. Ed Reyes, who previously played a key role in founding a student chapter at Delgado Community College, has once again demonstrated his dedication. Now a professional member, Ed continues to lead the way in fostering growth and community within the organization.

Have a triumphant week.

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One more thing—we want to lead with transparency. AI was most likely used to complete this post in one way or another. Don't blame the technology if you find a mistake; in most cases, our emails are written by humans and AI-supported. Now and then, they are AI-generated and human-edited. Both humans and AI still make mistakes.

American Institute of Building Design (AIBD)

The American Institute of Building Design (AIBD) is a professional association that promotes the highest standards of excellence in residential building design. AIBD offers a variety of resources to its members, including continuing education, networking opportunities, and marketing assistance. AIBD is a valuable resource for anyone interested in a career in residential building design. If you want to improve your skills, network with other professionals, and stay up-to-date on the latest trends, AIBD is the perfect organization for you.

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