8 best software for Architects and how to choose

Wambui Mugo April 20, 2020

The next Frank Lloyd Wright or Le Corbusier will require more than pen and paper to create jaw-dropping structures. Before computer-aided design software (CAD) the entire design process was painfully slow and an error almost always meant you have to start from scratch.

Technology has come with excellent software that makes it possible to create era-defining structures with a high degree of accuracy. Designing is faster and a lot easier. Architects can now visualize their work before it materializes. They can add, delete, and edit designs at will.

Architectural designs have become more complex as technology advancements have provided limitless creative approaches. There is more communication and collaboration between construction industry players leading to more comprehensive, efficient, and better projects.

How to pick the best architecture software

Getting one program to suit all your design needs is a daunting task. In your career, it’s one of the greatest decisions. Your work will majorly revolve around this app hence the need to ensure it’s well thought out. It’s important to remember that the most expensive isn’t always the best option.

Let’s look at the factors you should consider as you choose software.

Functionality

Before picking software, you have to know what you are functions and features you want. Ask yourself these questions. Do you require only an architectural design tool? Are you looking to make presentations with the tool? What exactly is the output you want from the program?

Budget

Let your budget determine the best tool to acquire. There are free, affordable, and premium applications. You don’t have to burn a hole in your pocket getting a program only to stop using it after a month or two.

Compatibility

You need to use a program that is compatible with those you are collaborating with. You don’t want to slow the team down each time you send a file due to incompatibility issues.

Learning curve

Most architectural applications have a steep learning curve that a beginner may find complex to follow. It’s good to start with simple programs to make you more comfortable with the interface. Applications like SketchUp are good for beginners as the learning curve is less steep. Otherwise, use what you are most comfortable with.

Industry practices

Carry out research and find out which software is used by the big boys. Is there a particular program required by clients in your firm or locality? What’s the most used program around you?

That being said, let’s dive into the best architecture software in the market today,

1. AutoCAD

AutoCAD has been the cornerstone design app for architects or construction engineers since 1982. The app has come a long way since then and it’s such an inspiration to students and architecture firms globally.

It’s predominantly used for floor plans, elevations, and sections from model geometry.

Pros

Easy-to-use interface.
Autodesk integration.
It’s regarded highly across multiple industries.
The keyboard shortcuts increase its user-friendliness.

Cons

3D functionalities may be cumbersome.
Lack of Revit and BIM integration.

Price: $195/month

2. SketchUp

SketchUp is one of the easiest and intuitive CADs in the market today. They have easy tutorials that give you a walk through the software. You can easily create both simple and complex design development models fit for architectural visualization and presentations.

You can get third-party plugins for free on the SketchUp Extension Warehouse. It allows layout functionality, surface rendering, as well as the populating of your designs. How cool is that?

Pros

Easy to learn.
Intuitive user interface
Free plugins and 3D model warehouse.
The online version is free

Cons

The visual graphics aren’t all that.
It’s not a collaborative tool.

Price: Free plan. The paid version starts at $119 annually.

3. Rhino 6

Also known as the Rhino 3D, it’s built to develop fluid and organic forms. Where other 3D models have failed Rhino was specially designed to create to handle complex curved surfaces.

Other than that, Rhino provides you with everything you need to edit designs. From a super-car’s curves to the human face, and curved roofing intersections. Also, it provides you with the documentation for the 3D model designs.

Pros

It’s a powerful 3D modeler.
Specializes in fluid and organic modeling.
Availability of numerous plugins.

Cons

It’s not very widely used.
It relies on an add-on BIM functionality.

Prices: One-time license of $1160

4. Revit

Are you looking for a BIM optimized design software?

Well, Revit is another Autodesk creation specially developed to handle BIM workflows. It creates designs that show an entire virtual structure, from floors and walls to service specifications and integrations.

The models are saved in a database file allowing you to make changes on a section of the model and the changes are updated on the other parts.

Pros

It’s a collaboration tool as well.
Fully BIM optimized.
Smart connectivity and efficiency.

Cons

No intuitive interface.
It requires a very steep learning curve.
It’s not suitable for small projects.

Price: $2425

5. 3DS Max

Autodesk 3DS Max is a modeling program that creates detailed 3D animations and models. It’s the go-to application for 3D creations. Game developers, architectural visualization studios, and TV studios will tell you it’s for a good reason.

It has a broad variety of modifiers, dynamic simulation, shaders, rendering settings, and lighting scenarios. The user interface is very customizable and there are additional plugins that can be added to increase functionality.

Pros

It meets all industry standards.
It gives 3D modeling and animation limitless capabilities.
It has huge community support and tutorials.

Cons

It’s expensive
It has a steep learning curve

Price: $1545 annually.

6. Catia

Are you interested in following Boeing's footsteps? Catia will empower you to design a smart-car and the factory that makes the smart-car.

It’s a Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) software. It improves workflow and project productivity during 3D modeling projects. It’s powerful CAD software that has now embraced cloud functionality.

It’s dominating the aeronautics, aerospace, automotive, and other complex industries. If you work for a large enterprise involved in complex projects, then Catia is the toolset for you.

It’s a pricy software but the companies that use it say it’s worth every penny.

Pros

It has a high model precision.
It’s a very powerful CAD.

Cons

It’s expensive.

Price: They ask you to request a quote.

7. Chief Architect

Do you want to kick ass in home design and remodels?

Chief Architect is your home construction kit. It a very easy tool to use as it’s specially designed to handle consumer DIY projects.

They offer Architect interiors and Premier services from which you can pick the one that best suits your needs.

Pros

It’s very easy to use.
It has smart powerful features.

Cons

It’s a pricy software.

Price: Premier $2995/year while Architect interior $2195/year.

8. Civil 3D

Autodesk has a winner in Civil 3D construction information modeling software.

Civil Engineers and Land Surveyors have a tailored dynamic design tool created just for them. It not only enables you to organize your project but also create surfaces, road corridors, block layouts, and analyze them.

Engineers are able to see how any changes they make affect others. This is as a result of the integration of survey images with service schematics, constructional geometry, terrain modeling, and roads.