
AutoCAD
Bluebeam Revu is designed to streamline existing workflows and improve collaboration among project team members in real-time with customizable markup tools. This solution allows users to transform scanned images into easily searc...Read more
Envisioneer by Cadsoft is a 3D building information modelling platform that assists users in designing, developing and constructing residential projects. The product is offered in four tiers based on the types of professionals and...Read more
Vectorworks is a versatile, on-premise application that provides extensive 2D drafting, 3D modeling, BIM and rendering capabilities for your architectural and landscape design needs. Vectorworks is equipped with designer-focused t...Read more
Tekla Structures (formerly Tekla BIMsight) is a Windows-based construction collaboration solution. It enables users to combine 3D models, add projects and allows project participants to identify or resolve conflicts in the design ...Read more
AutoCAD Architecture is architectural design software. It helps users design and draft industry-specific designs. AutoCAD Architecture's features include architectural renovations; wall, door and window design documentation, and r...Read more
MicroStation is an architectural CAD solution designed to help businesses in the construction, petroleum, mining and other sectors create, modify and visualize 2D and 3D designs. Administrators can create annotations, paper plots,...Read more
AttendanceBot is a time and attendance tracking solution that helps businesses manage time-off requests, overtime and availability of employees. It enables managers to streamline employee scheduling operations, approve employees’ ...Read more
Space Designer is an online architectural space-planning application that lets users visualize their projects in 3D. Its intuitive tools are user-friendly for professionals and novices alike. Its technology is adopted by a large ...Read more
ARCHLine.XP LIVE comes with simple interface and powerful engine as well as high quality images, panoramas, and animations in seconds. The system comes with features such as a real time renderer, libraries of materials and models,...Read more
For architects, engineers, and construction firms at large, manual two-dimensional designs are time-consuming and error-prone. Even after multiple iterations, 2D drawings may fail to communicate the final project concept. With 3D architecture software, however, architects and engineers can provide virtual tours, giving stakeholders the full experience of a proposed project.
3D architecture software includes features such as 3D modeling, computer-aided design (CAD) tools, and animations so users can design virtual tours and visualize structures. These tools allow multiple designers and architects to collaborate and co-edit designs via virtual 3D models.
In this buyers guide, we'll explore 3D architecture software as well as its features and benefits.
Here’s what we'll cover:
3D architecture software is used by architects, construction professionals, and engineers to design virtual tours and create three-dimensional models. It uses 3D modeling and CAD tools to create a visualized concept of proposed structures.
3D architecture software uses building information modeling (BIM) to help architects analyze the entire construction process, including planning, operation, design, and maintenance. These tools also allow users to check errors in models, identify potential issues, and make changes. 3D architecture software facilitates animation, data import/export, image editing, and drafting.
An example of a 3D architecture software dashboard in AutoCAD (Source)
3D modeling | Create a three-dimensional model of a structure to provide a realistic and accurate view of the project. Check errors in the architectural design process, provide virtual tours for clients, and more. |
Collaboration tools | Teams can collaborate and co-edit a 3D infrastructure model. |
Animation | Build 3D animations for landscapes and interiors to visualize ideas and provide an interactive experience. |
Building information modeling (BIM) | Evaluate physical as well as functional characteristics of a construction project by integrating every detail about the project's strategy, design, operation, and maintenance. |
CAD software | Develop, modify, and optimize 3D architectural designs. Calculate the impact of any change on the overall design. |
Component library | Select required presentation elements such as text, images, videos, and animations from a component library to create immersive presentations. |
Landscape design | Refine your 3D model by adding landscape elements such as trees, plants, and people. |
Data import/export | Import and export data files, diagrams, and 3D models. |
File management | Store and track all project-related files in a single database that only authorized stakeholders can access. |
Most 3D architecture software buyers belong to one of the following categories:
Here are a few factors to consider while selecting 3D architecture software:
Note: The application selected in this guide is an example to show a feature in context and is not intended as an endorsement or recommendation. It has been taken from sources believed to be reliable at the time of publication.