Architect's tools: what software and hardware are essential?
Which architectural tools are essential for designing and building projects?
Because the profession of architect involves a wide range of skills, from drawing to project supervision and building permit management, it's vital to use a palette of specific and increasingly optimized tools.
Are you going to architecture school and wondering what equipment to pack in your backpack? Are you a professional looking for an overview of the different types of software you can rely on? Are you working in architecture and looking for a complete list of architectural tools?
In this article, you'll find an overview of the most commonly used drawing and modeling equipment. And on the software side, we take a look at the different types of solutions (3D modeling, CAD, administrative management, etc.) that you can rely on on a daily basis to carry out all your assignments.
What hardware does an architect use?
As early as the national school of architecture and the preparation of the state diploma, budding architects learn to use essential equipment for two activities specific to the profession: drawing plans and designing models.
Subsequently, professionals may choose to use digital solutions for certain tasks. Nevertheless, many of them, for reasons we'll come to later, are still attached to this artisanal know-how.
But creativity means "to each his own". An architect can develop his own technique and put his own stamp on his work, using unusual tools such as watercolor or India ink. That's why in this article we've put together a list of the essentials, which you can use to build up your own arsenal of the perfect architect! Note that it can also serve as the basis for a list of architectural school supplies.
Drawing materials
Ground plans, floor plans, facade plans, sectional plans... architects produce a large number of drawings in the course of their studies and careers. These are the best way to represent the future architectural project graphically and technically.
However, when it comes to producing plans, there are two schools of thought: hand-drawn or computer-generated? While digital technology offers the possibility of precision work, hand-drawing still has a long way to go:
- it enhances the architect's or design firm's expertise, and is a signature that the public can recognize;
- the organic nature of paper encourages a different angle of approach and understanding, allowing us to perceive plans differently;
- learning to draw helps the architect to understand spaces, the play of light, and all the fundamental concepts of architecture in general. It's a prerequisite for using software properly!
Feel like turning the paper black? For your next works, use this list of materials, available in fine art stores such as Rougier&Plé or Boesner:
- a sketchbook: keep up your creative momentum and draw whenever you like,
- paper in a variety of formats: your medium for getting all your plans down on paper,
- mechanical pencil or drawing pencil: to start sketching your plans,
- tubular or rapido pens: appreciated by architects for their precise lines and consistent thickness,
- tracing and graph paper: for easy tracing and precise drawing,
- a scale ruler: quickly calculate drawing sizes in relation to actual sizes,
- tee and square: draw parallels and perpendiculars,
- templates: create different shapes (geometric, symbols, etc.) to scale,
- a drawing board: perfect for guiding and fixing your tee,
- a drawing table: draw comfortably, even for hours on end,
- a drawing board: perfect for guiding and securing your tee, a drawing table: draw comfortably, even for hours on end, a drawing stand: transport your beautiful drawings without damaging them.
The above list also covers the interior designer's material needs.
Equipment for models
In the list of indispensable tools for architects, we also include model-making equipment.
A reduced 3D representation of the future construction project, the architectural model remains a good way of presenting a project to the client or the public. Often integrated into its surroundings (land, vegetation, road, etc.), it offers a better view of the future construction. It is therefore an excellent communication tool, and reassures buyers with a more realistic rendering than a simple drawing.
Nowadays, however, there's the question of technique: hand-made models or 3D printing? The latter undoubtedly saves time, especially when it comes to reproducing small elements such as balconies. But a hand-made model guarantees a more realistic representation, and therefore more appreciated by the customer.
While a model builder may be entrusted with the task of creating a model, architects and apprentice architects are bound to have a go at it. Here's a list of the basics you'll need:
- featherboard or foam board: the basis of your structures, it's both light and strong, and cuts easily with a cutter,
- Cellular foam blocks: can be cut, hollowed and trimmed,
- slabs (wood, metal, plastic, cork, slate, etc.): make your structures more attractive and more solid,
- rods and tubes: create frames to consolidate your models,
- a cutter: cut shapes easily and precisely,
- a metal ruler: make cutting easier,
- Transparent glue: assemble the various elements of your model without leaving any traces,
- DIY tools (jigsaw, screwdriver, sander, etc.): essential for working with certain materials, or for more complex jobs,
- scenery: elements such as vegetation and characters add a touch of realism and conviviality to the model.
The architect's other materials
Finally, it's worth noting that the practicing architect equips himself with tools other than drawing and model-making equipment, particularly when out in the field. These include
- the compass, to orientate himself and the architectural project in the field,
- laser rangefinders, for easy distance measurement without the need to be constantly on the move.
As you can see, the profession requires highly specialized manual skills, and an architect's equipment must meet these requirements. But, as in other fields, the profession is moving more and more towards the digital age.
So let's find out what kind of professional architectural software is most widely used.
What software is essential for architects?
In fact, given the architect's wide-ranging scope of activity, several types of software are essential to the execution of his or her tasks. They all have very specific functions. 3D modeling, CAD, BIM... let's take a closer look at the differences and advantages of each.
3D modeling software
The advantages of 3D modeling software
They simply model shapes and scenes in three dimensions. In the field of architecture, they are used to model the future building: the resulting rendering, often very realistic, offers the customer a convincing visualization of the project. What's more, some of these programs are easy to learn and use.
3D modeling of a house (source: jfl-media.com)
For all these reasons, 3D modeling tools are useful for architects, but not only! Salespeople, for example, rely on such solutions to present their project to the customer, and thus more easily close the sale.
Which 3D modeling software to choose
There are a number of free 3D modeling programs on the market, such as Kozikaza. As well as being free, Kozikaza has the advantage of being easy to learn, and boasts a large community of users. But in practice, we quickly come across certain limitations... particularly limited functionality and a less qualitative rendering.
That's why we recommend that architectural specialists turn to professional 3D modeling software. Take SketchUp, for example.
Why SketchUp?
- Although there is a free version, the paid versions (SketchUp Pro and SketchUp Studio) are particularly well-suited to architects.
- When it comes to 3D modeling, SketchUp remains a must-have, as it is extremely powerful, quick to learn and easy to use.
- What's more, it facilitates collaborative working and architectural project management, thanks to unlimited storage space in the cloud.
- Finally, it provides customers with a more immersive and convincing experience, with plans displayed in virtual reality. A real eye-opener!
CAD software
CAD, which stands for "computer-aided design", is defined both as a technique and as the software package that implements this technique. It also goes by the acronym CAD (computer-aided design). But what exactly is CAD?
The advantages of CAD software
CAD software enables you to model manufactured products virtually, and above all to test them.
A CAD tool differs from simple 3D modeling or CAD (computer-aided design) software in its technical interpretation, the ability to understand interactions and possible incompatibilities.
What we're really talking about here is intelligent virtual construction of the object. CAD is also used in fields other than architecture, such as mechanical engineering and furniture.
Which CAD software should I choose?
Are you looking for high-performance CAD software? AutoCAD remains the benchmark.
Why AutoCAD?
- Comprehensive, intuitive and extremely powerful, it enables highly accurate 2D and 3D drawings, with the option of automation and annotations (dimensions, reference lines, tables, etc.).
- AutoCAD also contains a set of specialized tools for the architectural sector (rapid renovation design, creation of elements with realistic behavior and construction, etc.), ensuring real time savings.
- Finally, the software adapts perfectly to architects' working conditions: practice on the move, thanks to the included Web and mobile applications.
BIM software
BIM (Building Information Modelling) translates as "information modelling". A fairly recent concept, it is defined above all as a collaborative construction process. Involving the design of one or more intelligent digital mock-ups (or models), BIM leads to the efficient management and production of building-related data.
The benefits of BIM software
In practice, the model created (usually by the architect) reproduces all the functional and aesthetic aspects of the project, in a highly precise and structured way. It is then shared with the various stakeholders (architects, customers, engineers, etc.). They in turn can intervene to complete or technically modify the model, throughout the entire project lifecycle.
Thanks to this working method, teams can coordinate even before the first stone is laid, making site monitoring easier and avoiding delays and loss of money.
Which BIM software to choose?
To take full advantage of the BIM process, dedicated software includes the ability to model a digital mock-up with parametric objects.
There are several solutions of this type on the market, such as Allplan or ArchiCAD. But Revit remains one of the most widely used by building professionals.
Why Revit?
- Revit is a documentation and design tool that makes skilful use of 3D modeling of building data.
- Revit perfectly supports the various phases and disciplines inherent in a project.
- It also enhances team cooperation and coordination, thanks to its project-sharing and multidisciplinary features.
Management software
The architect's scope of action is broad and encompasses many missions. Creative by nature, he designs and conceives the future construction. At the same time, however, he or she must constantly ensure compliance with budgets and legislative standards.
Responsible for the smooth running of a project, they take charge of all project-related tasks: sales proposals, time and resource management, scheduling, invoicing...... So many tasks to manage! Fortunately, there are software packages specifically designed for the architectural profession, to make these tasks easier to carry out.
Here are 2 management software packages adapted to the architectural profession:
Fitnet Manager
Fitnet Manager is an easy-to-use ERP Made in France, specially designed for service companies. With a module designed for architects, and backed by over 15 years' expertise, it supports you in the total management of your business:
- automated invoicing : compliance with the Loi MOP, management of holdbacks, agents and co-contractors;
- comprehensive opportunity tracking: follow-up of responses to tenders, centralized management of the contact database, reminder tool for notifications
- project planning and management: control of workload planning, monitoring of time spent and deliverables, management of project templates;
- real-time financial monitoring : profitability control, detailed analyses by phase/project, reporting.
OOTI
Dedicated to architects, interior designers, urban planners and design offices, OOTI handles a range of related tasks:
- administrative,
- project management,
- employee management,
- expense reports,
- invoicing,
- budget and time tracking, etc.
The software accompanies you from project start-up to delivery, and provides a global, real-time view of the business. In short, thanks to OOTI, architects are freer to devote themselves to higher value-added missions.
Numerous tools for creativity
The importance of the architect's mission means that he must constantly equip himself with the best tools. From his studies through to the completion of his career, he must best serve his creativity, while remaining aligned with customer requirements and the reality of a profession in perpetual evolution.
And evolution means digital transition. Indeed, while drafting equipment and models are still part of the daily routine for many architects, the use of specialized software has become essential. Saving time, improving precision, working together... these are just some of the many advantages they offer for the development of ever more ambitious constructions.
Finally, let's not forget that an architect often takes on the responsibility of project manager. That's why it's a good idea to use solutions capable of relieving the architect of administrative tasks and managing budgets and resources, so that he or she can concentrate on more creative tasks.
Are you an architect who prefers to work "the old-fashioned way", with software, or both? Share your experience in the comments.
Article translated from French