Architecture has been steadily growing in popularity for quite some time. It’s not looking to stop or slow down anytime soon, either. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that architecture will continue to expand by at least 1% until 2029.
Architecture is widely thought to be a stable and well-paying career with a minimum of educational requirements. You can earn upwards of $80,000 a year with only a Bachelor’s Degree.
One of the reasons for architecture’s expanding popularity is the wide array of excellent, powerful software to facilitate your drafting and design. Here are some of the top architecture software tools to help you get started and grow your architectural career or interest!
What Is Architecture Software?
To begin, let’s take a look at what we mean by architecture software. Is any computer program used by architects in their design process considered architecture design software?
Not quite.
For the sake of this article, we’re defining architecture design software as computer programs meant specifically for architectural design and engineering. This differentiates between programs specifically for drafting versus other programs with broader applications, like Adobe Illustrator for instance.
Revit
Architecture software is much more than simply a program for drawing houses. Otherwise, MS Paint could be seen as drafting software. Architecture design software is capable of much, much more.
Especially Revit. Revit is a more modern architecture design application created by Autodesk. The fact that it’s newer means that it’s able to make use of more modern software features designed specifically for digital architects.
Building Information Modelling (BIM) is the best example of some features that are particular to architecture software. BIM is designed specifically to deal with 3D models. This brings your drafts and blueprints to life, transforming them from two-dimensional concepts to 3D reality.
Working with BIM has helped 70% of architects detect and avoid errors in their work. 56% state that it improves client relations. These numbers alone are a powerful argument for why architectural software is so mandatory.
AutoCAD
We turn from one of the newest to one of the oldest and most reliable architecture programs in existence. AutoCAD is one of those rare products that become synonymous with what it does, like Kleenex or Jell-O. Many know the term CAD, or computer-assisted design, because of AutoCAD.
AutoCAD’s reputation is one of the best reasons to investigate this powerful software. It’s the gold standard of architectural applications.
This means that a lot of people are familiar with the program. This makes it easier to exchange files and collaborate digitally. With AutoCAD having been around for so long, there’s a vast array of tools and resources available for it as well.
There’s no need to re-create the wheel every time you undertake a drafting project. AutoCAD has a wealth of pre-made elements like walls, doors, and windows. It saves you from wasting time on busy work when you could be focusing on more meaningful tasks.
3DS Max
Architectural designs and blueprints created on the computer are not limited to flat two-dimensional. The ability to quickly, cheaply create detailed 3D renderings is reason enough to move beyond the drafting table. 3DS Max is one of the first 3D modeling programs. Its longevity alone speaks to its capabilities, in the hyper-fast world of tech.
3DS Max is meant more for presentations than for contractors, however. If you’re looking for a tool to create a stunningly detailed fly-through animation, you should consider keeping a copy of 3DS installed on your system. If you’re looking for something to draw ductwork and hash out wiring schematics, though, you might do better to look elsewhere.
Rhino 3D
There’s been a trend towards organic shapes in architecture and design in recent years. Even if there hadn’t been, there are still all manner of situations that call for curves, circles, and spheres. All of which can be surprisingly difficult to implement on a computer.
Rhino 3D is designed for smooth implementation of curved lines and non-uniform rational basis spline (NURBS) surfaces.
Rhino 3D is especially well-equipped to handle convex details like curved roofs. Its reliance on NURBS instead of mesh you more commonly see in drafting software means that Rhino creates particularly detailed rounded elements like curves.
Rhino 3D can make for an excellent bridge between the analog and the digital, as well. You can import 2D drawings into Rhino and the software will render them into detailed, hyper-realistic 3D models. This also makes Rhino a good pick for those who are still learning CAD.
ArchiCAD
Speaking of CAD software for beginners, we’ll close our list with one of the best. ArchiCAD is an excellent choice for those who don’t yet need every single bell and whistle. Sometimes features can become a distraction, leaving you searching for a tool rather than focusing on creating your blueprints.
ArchiCAD was another of the earliest CAD programs on the market. Released in 1987, it was one of the first programs to offer 3D rendering and BIM support for home computers.
ArchiCAD has a reputation for being user-friendly. Just because it’s streamlined doesn’t mean it’s weak, however. In fact, ArchiCAD offers a number of powerful tools like automating common processes which will save you time and effort during the drafting phase.
Once you settle on the right software for your needs, you can look around for some software architecture patterns and get straight to work! You won’t believe how your workflow will thrive!
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Whether you’re looking for advice on architecture software or tips on choosing an electrician, you’ll find the info you need to stay inspired and informed on our pages. Browse the rest of our site today for even more inspiration!
