There is a lot of architecture software available to professionals, but which programs are really essential? In this post we compile an updated list with some of the best Architecture programs, according to experts.

Each one has different advantages, if you are an architect or architecture student, you should know these programs and choose those in which you can carry out your projects, taking into account both your objectives and their use and characteristics.

A review of the best architecture software

Architecture tools and software have come a long way. In the mid-1990s, design programs replaced pencil and paper. Since then, countless architecture programs have been developed to design and plan projects faster and more efficiently, minimizing calculation errors.

A few years ago, Autocad was the hegemonic program in architecture, accompanied by others that have also become basic such as 3D Studio Max or Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator.

BIM architecture programs

Practically all architecture software programs are currently geared towards making their use compatible with BIM.

CAD and BIM are different but closely related concepts in the practice of the architect. CAD programs are used to create 3D models and plans that provide an accurate representation of ideas. With BIM, the architect can go one step further because it adds much more multidisciplinary data to the project, in the design, construction and operations processes. 

BIM is a methodology, a way of working. Detailed digital representations are created and managed on an open cloud platform enabling real-time collaboration. This is one of its advantages.

On the other hand, architectural rendering programs allow both architects and their clients to visually experience designs before carrying out a project.

In this post, we have selected 6 of the best architecture software, according to its concept and functionality: Architecture programs to make plans and 3d modeling, programs to create renders for architecture and software for the administration and control of projects.

3D programs for architecture

As we have mentioned, AutoCAD is the most used program in Architecture to make 2D plans, although with AutoCAD software you can also design and do anything in 3D.

In this post, we are going to highlight two other products:

REVIT ARCHITECTURE

Autodesk Revit is intelligent BIM modeling design software for architecture and engineering. With Revit you not only draw, but also build virtually in 3D. With a relational database, it manages and coordinates the information necessary for the modeling of the architectural design, construction, and engineering of a building.

ArchiCAD

ArchiCAD is a complete CAD software, specific to architecture, interior design and construction that works under the Virtual BuildingTM concept. It was the first BIM software in the world, created by Graphisoft. It is a building information modeling software, you can do 3D modeling and parametric drawing.

In functionality, both ArchiCAD and Revit have good tools for conceptual design, rendering, visualization, interoperability, and modeling.

As programs for 3D modeling for Architecture, other references such as 3DS MAX, SketchUp Pro or Rhinoceros 3D, also known as Rhinos and excellent for modeling the most complex forms, are added to these two other references.

Programs to render in architecture

Architects present ever more realistic renderings. Here, two of the most well-known programs to elaborate architectural renderings:

LUMION

Lumion is visualization software made for architects: a very intuitive rendering program with highly realistic results.

Lumion is available in regular and PRO versions. With the Pro version, you have access to all the features and effects, such as high detail nature, phased animation, Open Street Maps, photomontage, Pure Glass and much more. Regular Lumion has a limited selection of effects and ⅓ of the entire content library.

VRAY

VRay is the most widely used rendering engine for infoarchitecture. It is used as an extension of some design applications such as: Sketch up, Unreal, 3ds Max, Revit… Both users and experts place this plugin at the top of the list when it comes to the quality of the final product. The reasons? Real-time visualization, photorealistic rendering, and intelligent 3D content.

In the market, there are other very interesting options for rendering architecture, such as Artlantis, for example.

Programs to manage projects

In addition to drawing and 3D, architects also need budgeting, project management and cost control software, two of the most popular are:

PRESTO

Presto is presented as the first program of budgets and modular measurements that integrates the management and control of costs for construction and civil works oriented to BIM. It facilitates the standardization, reuse, and exchange of data between the different agents that intervene in the building process: professionals who write projects, directors of works execution, project managers or construction and promoter companies.

MS PROJECT

MS Project is software designed by Microsoft and used by millions of collaborators, administrators and project managers. It has a variety of functions, each assigned to track processes, manage budgets, assess workloads and rhythms, allocate resources, develop plans, and more. That is, for project management in each of its tasks.

I hope this article has been useful to you with our selection of the 6 best architecture software in 2022.