BIM and the future of architecture: Accelerate design processes with Archicad 27
BIM and the future of architecture: Accelerate design processes with Archicad 27
Architecture is a unique field that combines both static aesthetic and functional needs, while being immersed in dynamic technological environments. At this stage, design and building processes have become increasingly complex, requiring architects to manage projects efficiently while promoting multi-disciplinary and multi-level collaboration throughout the workflow. In addition, the new technologies and tools we use in this process must evolve at the same pace – and sometimes faster – by embracing aspects such as sustainability and efficiency, all while keeping an eye on the future.
The tools available in the multidisciplinary architectural environment have evolved very rapidly. Both students and experienced architects have now moved almost completely from manual methods to computer-aided drafting programs. Today, we find ourselves immersed in an era of architecture that relies on technologies such as building information modeling (BIM), artificial intelligence, and digital processes. At the same time, the fundamentals of BIM and its historical background go back to the early days of computing, research and new technologies, which sparked rapid development within the AEC industry and among its professionals.
If you look at the history of technology, you will find those key moments when new technology becomes available and starts a trend that reshapes the way we work. -Marton Case
In this context, Graphisoft, developer of BIM software solutions for architecture and multidisciplinary design, presented important milestones during the Building Together | “Connect” event. These improvements connect diverse ecosystems, solutions, disciplines and stakeholders while delivering innovations to their flagship product, Archicad 27. To get first-hand information on the new features and roadmap, we attended the event where we received insights from CEO Hugh Roberts regarding important developments and engaged in meaningful conversations with managers Graphisoft executives, particularly with their VP of Product Success, Márton Kiss.
Built-in tools and an easy-to-use environment to create exceptional buildings
Regarding the company’s innovations, Case highlights that “the release includes significant developments across the Graphisoft ecosystem, with significant improvements and feature updates offering the greatest value in recent times for both new and existing users.” Specifically, Archicad innovations emphasize accelerating design processes, enabling faster and clearer prototyping, documentation, and visualization of design options and combinations. This makes Archicad the most efficient and intuitive BIM software on the market, allowing architects and designers to focus on their core strength: creating exceptional buildings.
Design Options and Distance Guides tool
Understanding the dynamic environment of architectural processes, some of the most engaging integrations into Archicad include the Design Options tool and enhanced distance guides for positioning elements. The first feature enables design teams to offer alternative options to customers. This optimization approach reduces the time needed to define design solutions through different iterations. It creates a workflow that eliminates the need for workarounds such as hotlinks, layer settings, or copying within a form.
Design options are something we added to that list (product roadmap) because many of our current and potential customers have raised this as an issue they are dealing with. -Marton Case
Likewise, with a focus on productivity, distance guides improve accuracy by displaying the distance from nearby items, helping users accurately position or move an item. Additionally, with a continued focus on project manageability, Archicad provides much-needed options for attribute management workflows. This improvement upgrades the efficiency of the design team, allowing users to organize more themes by folders. Combined, these new capabilities make designing with Archicad more fun and intuitive.
Intelligent mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) design tools.
Furthermore, in recognition of the pivotal roles played by diverse professionals in both architectural development and construction performance, DDScad integrates intelligent mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) design tools, integrated calculations, and comprehensive documentation solutions for all building systems. This synergy enables users to efficiently create and deliver high-quality MEP projects, all while meeting deadlines and sticking to budget.
The vital role of collaboration in architecture: BIMx and BIMcloud
Given the inherently multidisciplinary approach to architecture, the company’s current developments aim to enhance the efficiency of collaboration. In this context, BIMcloud stands out as a powerful platform for interdisciplinary interaction in design, especially in the new post-pandemic reality, which has required architectural firms to adapt to remote work and online workflows. For this reason, BIMcloud’s latest innovations focus on data security and synchronization, allowing users to collaborate securely and in real-time, regardless of project size, office location, or Internet connection speed.
In addition, to bridge the gap between the design studio, the client’s office and the construction site, Márton Kiss emphasizes that the improvements made to BIMx have turned it into more than just a 3D viewer. It serves as a productive work environment and mobile collaboration solution. For example, new integrated incident reporting features reduce the time needed to address issues discovered on site or during project coordination meetings. Within the Graphisoft ecosystem, the company unifies collaborative principles with Archicad Collaborate, a cost-effective subscription package that combines Archicad, BIMx and BIMcloud SaaS, making this software and its capabilities accessible to everyone.
Customers demand robust solutions that are easy to buy, learn and use. -Marton Case
Sun positioning function
BIMx enhances designer and client engagement in critical design decisions through an intuitive, intuitive interface that integrates model information with accurate contextual data. This promotes effective communication on the construction site and enables quick client-specific feedback. Furthermore, BIMx leverages advanced features such as precise sun positioning functionality, allowing users to take advantage of natural light and optimize designs in harmony with the environment by adjusting the sun’s position based on date and time.
What the future may hold for building information modeling (BIM)
As part of Graphisoft’s current and future innovations, the product roadmap serves as a guide for defining proposals within the body of research and ideas. This gives us a glimpse into emerging trends we may see in the coming years, from new integrations with software, like Grasshopper, to approaches centered around AI-assisted design and documentation.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and new generations
By employing artificial intelligence and machine learning, it will be possible to support a designer’s workflow, allowing them to focus on creative and higher-value tasks. Examples of tasks where AI can help include improving design, enhancing sustainability, creating documentation, and automating other tasks that are often time-consuming.
We’ve streamlined our organization to include a separate product information function that revolves around trends, technology, communications and artificial intelligence. -Marton Case
Case also highlights that new generations of students and architects, such as those belonging to Generation Z, are more willing to experiment and learn through online learning platforms than traditional teaching methods. These approaches are an integral part of the future that Graphisoft aims to explore and understand within the organization.
While it is difficult to pinpoint the next innovations in BIM and Graphisoft technologies, what is certain is that the company is in a constant process of evolution. Since the first versions of ArchiCAD in the 1980s, the software has remained the standard for simplifying design processes in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment. In the meantime, we will be closely following the future of BIM and architecture, which looks exciting. It is not just an exercise to trace the future of the discipline; Instead, BIM actively contributes to shaping it.
To learn more about Archicad and other innovative solutions, and to stay up to date on upcoming developments.Building together“Events, Visit their website Or refer to our Product statement.
