We advise using a BIM package if you are a new firm or a business considering using modern drafting software. If not, you will be starting with outdated equipment.
Let’s look at the three strategies we suggest for modeling and drafting now:
Autodesk Revit
In the US architectural sector, Revit is by far the BIM software that is used more frequently and is considered the best architecture software. This approach was used by our organization right away, and we would suggest it to any size architectural firm. It is ideal for small commercial or residential projects where just one architect uses the software at once.
Advantages of Autodesk Revit
- Simplifying the design procedure
- Lowering the learning curve associated with using several programs
- Consulting consultants to coordinate
Disadvantages of Autodesk Revit
If you’re using an Apple Mac, you’ll need to Boot Camp your computer or use Parallels Desktop 17 to get Autodesk Revit to run because the program only runs on Microsoft Windows.
We definitely wouldn’t advise it. We propose that you purchase Windows-based PCs for your office if you intend to utilize Revit. Second, managing files that can be gigabytes in size can be difficult. The model is slow to open, save, and respond since relatively minor projects consume hundreds of megabytes of storage.
Compared to the complete Revit version, which costs $320/month or $2,545/year, it costs $60/month or $475/year.
The primary distinction is that the complete version allows for simultaneous collaboration on 1 model by numerous users. Larger, more intricate projects and larger teams benefit more from the full version. Choose the milder variety if you are just started. A sizable user base provides advice, plugins, model components, and other resources.
BLUEBEAM
If you’re searching for the best Architecture software, The best PDF program is Bluebeam’s primary goal. It is a stand-alone business that is well-liked by design firms. It offers several quick and simple markup features and can convert blueprints into 2D and 3D PDFs.
Advantages of Bluebeam
- If you work in the design and construction sector, you should definitely consider investing in Bluebeam.
- You have the freedom to create, modify, and annotate PDFs.
- It is unquestionably worth the price and is by far the best PDF software for architecture businesses of all sizes.
Disadvantages of Bluebeam
Other than the fact that it doesn’t interact with many systems, Bluebeam is flawless. Cost: Bluebeam Revu basic seats start at $349 each.
ARCHICAD
ArchiCAD, a BIM program, is created especially for architects. It is flexible in design and offers a welcoming interface.
Advantages of ArchiCAD
- Its compatibility with Macs and simpler software are its key advantages.
- Many individuals fervently contend that this is a better design tool than Revit.
Disadvantages of ArchiCAD
Adopting industry standards is something we respect highly because it makes it simpler to cooperate and share files. Because ArchiCAD is less widely used, coordinating with engineers is more challenging.
Pricing: The solo edition of Archicad costs $240 per month, while the full version, which enables teamwork, costs $280 per month.
SKETCHUP
Another popular modeling program is SketchUp, however, it has several serious drawbacks. It is ideal for making quick changes, doing massing experiments, and investigating new ideas. It is, however, rather basic and crude software when you start creating the idea in greater detail.
Advantages of SketchUp
- Small projects with minimal detail requirements are good candidates for SketchUp.
- Additionally, it has a very user-friendly interface that is simple to understand.
- A sizable user base provides advice, plugins, model components, and other resources.
Disadvantages of SketchUp
During the schematic design stage, we used SketchUp, but as our team grew more proficient with Revit, we gradually stopped using it. Because it doesn’t provide adequate flexibility over line weights and types, it isn’t ideal for 2D drawings or detailed work.
Pricing: The cost of SketchUp Pro is reasonable at $299 per year.
Enscape
As soon as we began experimenting with Enscape, it became clear how helpful it would be during the design phase and how it wasn’t a surprise that it’s rated as the best architecture software. Working on the model while seeing the simulated scene in real time was amazing and completely changed my approach to design.
Advantages of Enscape
- Enscape is a plugin for SketchUp, ArchiCAD, or Revit (the complete version is required for Revit LT, which does not support plugins).
- It is simple to integrate into your everyday workflow.
- The software is simple to learn and your staff will soon be utilizing it frequently.
- The pre-installed elements and textures in this software make it easy to produce renderings that are suitable for client presentations.
- You don’t have to work in Photoshop for hours on end.
Disadvantages of Enscape
Although Enscape is difficult to criticize, there are some drawbacks. If that’s your goal, it’s challenging to produce representative model movies, and the rendered images are of average quality. However, Photoshop can fix anything.
Pricing: Single-use license subscriptions begin at $39.90 per month and floating license subscriptions begin at $67.90 per month.
In conclusion, no single piece of software can satisfy every requirement, especially given how frequently the industry changes. That does not preclude us from selecting the best software for architectures in 2022 as we have in the aforementioned article. In fact, it makes our job more challenging and rewarding – to look forward in a field that often seems to be static.
