Nowadays, architecture apps have become essential tools for professionals. They offer a range of useful features, making architectural tasks more efficient and accessible.
In this list by Insiderbits, we’ll focus on the best in architectural design. We’ve explored many different apps to bring you those that stand out in functionality and user experience.
Dive into our guide for building inspiration that transcends the ordinary. Whether you’re planning a project or just dreaming of future designs, these apps will ignite your creativity.
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magicplan
Magicplan is one of the most versatile architecture apps, transforming the way floor plans and reports are created. It’s user-friendly, making architectural design accessible as well.
Magicplan’s innovative technology allows for easy measuring and sketching. This feature brings building inspiration to life, enabling users to visualize their designs in both 2D and 3D.
The app excels in creating detailed reports. You can add photos, notes, and more, to communicate clearly and avoid confusion in every architectural project, large or small.
Estimating costs also becomes a simple process with magicplan. The app’s integrated tools automatically calculate pricing, helping you make informed decisions quickly and accurately.
Join millions of users who trust magicplan for their architectural needs. With its free trial on two projects and different subscription plans, this app is ideal for all architects.
| Pricing: | Free for basic use, but there’s a monthly subscription plan and a series of in-app purchases to enhance the experience, starting at $9.99. |
| Available For: | Android and iOS. |
4.4/5
Highlights from magicplan
- Instant Floor Plans: Magicplan app quickly generates detailed floor plans, making it a standout in architecture apps for its speed and accuracy.
- 3D Visualization: See your architectural design in 3D, offering a realistic view of how your projects will look once they’re finished.
- Comprehensive Reporting: Easily add photos, notes, and custom forms to your reports for thorough documentation and clear communication.
- Accurate Estimating: Magicplan’s estimating feature automatically calculates costs, simplifying budget management for your projects.
- Widespread Compatibility: Supports a range of devices and laser distance meters, ensuring the app fits seamlessly into your workflow.
BIMx
BIMx is a groundbreaking architecture app by Graphisoft. Designed to bring the most beautiful architectural design to life, it’s perfect for visualizing and exploring BIM projects.
BIMx stands out with its “BIMx hyper-model”, a feature that enables even non-design professionals to understand and appreciate the intricacies of architectural projects.
For building inspiration, BIMx links 3D models with 2D documentation, offering seamless integration. This unique approach allows for a complete view of architectural plans.
The app isn’t just for the office either; it’s an essential tool on the construction site. With real-time cut-throughs, it bridges the gap between architects and project execution.
The app’s features, like game-like 3D navigation and Google Cardboard VR support, make exploring architecture an immersive and engaging experience for all users.
Highlights from BIMx
- Interactive BIM Exploration: The BIMx app transforms the way you view and interact with BIM projects, perfect for both professionals and enthusiasts.
- Hyper-model Visualization: See your architectural design come to life with the BIMx hyper-model, offering detailed insights into every project.
- Seamless 3D and 2D Integration: Effortlessly switch between 3D models and 2D layouts, enhancing your understanding and building inspiration.
- On-Site Collaboration Tools: Real-time cut-throughs and measuring tools make BIMx valuable for on-site construction and project management.
- Immersive Navigation Features: Experience architectural designs with game-like 3D navigation and VR support, making the app engaging and informative.
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Autodesk Construction Cloud
Autodesk Construction Cloud is a one-stop solution for teams, and one of the most innovative architecture apps available today, designed to streamline project management.
This app simplifies architectural design with smart connections and automated workflows. Teams can deliver high-quality projects efficiently, staying on time and under budget.
Bringing building inspiration to the field, the app integrates tools like Autodesk Build and PlanGrid. Access essential project data and manage documents anytime, anywhere.
Autodesk Construction Cloud is versatile, serving team roles from superintendents to architects. It upgrades on-site management, real-time tracking, and daily operations.
The app offers features like issue tracking and schedule management. It’s a comprehensive tool for construction collaboration, ensuring smooth project progression and quality control.
| Pricing: | Some very basic functions are free, but you need a subscription for full access. Prices start at $49.99. |
| Available For: | Android and iOS. |
4/5
Highlights from Autodesk Construction Cloud
- Comprehensive Project Management: Autodesk Construction Cloud streamlines construction projects, essential in architecture apps for efficient management.
- Integrated Collaboration Tools: The app facilitates architectural design with connected tools for seamless teamwork so that projects stay on track.
- Mobile Accessibility: You can access project data and manage documents on the go, bringing building inspiration directly to the field.
- Role-Specific Features: Autodesk Construction Cloud is tailored to team members, from superintendents to architects, enhancing project oversight and execution.
- Advanced Issue Tracking: Robust issue tracking and schedule management features to guarantee quality control and timely project completion.
Concepts: Sketch, Note, Draw
Concepts: Sketch, Note, Draw is a dynamic app designed to turn your ideas into reality. It’s a vector-based creative workspace perfect for ideation.
Reimagine the architectural design process with Concepts. Its infinite canvas allows for endless creativity, allowing you to sketch, note, and mindmap your visionary projects.
Concepts stand out for building inspiration with their editable and scalable sketches. You can use tools like Nudge, Slice, and Select for effortless design adjustments on the go.
Optimized for pen-enabled devices, Concepts offers a smooth, responsive experience. Its toolset includes realistic pencils, pens, and brushes, adapting to pressure and tilt.
This popular app, used by creators at Disney and Google, is ideal for professionals and amateurs. Sketch with precision and export your work easily for sharing and collaboration.
| Pricing: | Free, but full access to features requires a premium subscription. Plans start at $4.99 a month. |
| Available For: | Android and iOS. |
4.4/5
Highlights from Concepts: Sketch, Note, Draw
- Flexible Vector Drawing: Concepts revolutionizes architectural apps with its vector-based approach, allowing infinite adjustments and scalability.
- Expansive Sketching Space: Offers an unlimited canvas, enabling extensive exploration and visualization in architectural design.
- Adjustable Design Elements: Unique editing tools to refine and reshape sketches, perfect for detailed architectural planning.
- Advanced Artistic Tools: Equipped with pressure-sensitive pens and brushes, mimicking real-world drawing tools for a natural feel.
- Customizable Export Features: Tailored export options for seamless sharing and collaboration, from detailed sketches to comprehensive plans.
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AR Plan 3D Tape Measure, Ruler
Lastly, the AR Plan 3D Tape Measure, Ruler emerges as a game-changer amongst architecture apps. It uses AR tech for accurate room measurements and floor plan creation.
Perfect for architectural design, the app allows you to measure room perimeters and heights with ease. You can choose between Metric or Imperial units to suit your project needs.
Gain building inspiration with the app’s 3D floor planning capabilities. It’s lidar scanner and camera sensor effortlessly calculate layout values for material estimation as well.
AR Plan 3D isn’t just about measurements either. You’re able to create detailed 2D side view floorplans, including doors and windows, escalating your design and planning process.
Finally, you can also store and view all your floor plan measurements in the app’s archive. Sharing your designs is simple too, with options to send via email, message, or social media.
| Pricing: | There are free features, but you need a monthly subscription to access all functionalities. Plans start at $19.99. |
| Available For: | Android and iOS. |
4.3/5
Highlights from AR Plan 3D Tape Measure, Ruler
- Augmented Reality Measurement: Innovative AR technology for quick, accurate room measurements, a standout in architecture apps.
- Versatile Unit Options: Measure in Metric or Imperial units, catering to diverse architectural design needs and preferences.
- 3D Floor Planning: Easily create detailed 3D floor plans, offering a practical tool for building inspiration and project visualization.
- 2D Side View Creation: Generate side-view floor plans with doors and windows, enhancing the depth of your architectural planning.
- Efficient Sharing and Storage: Conveniently store, view, and share your floor plan measurements and designs through various platforms.
Final thoughts on the most innovative architecture apps
As we conclude our walkthrough of the best architecture apps, we see how they add to the field of architectural design, offering innovative solutions for every creative need.
From detailed floor plans to immersive 3D models, these apps provide the tools to bring your building inspiration to life. They’re assets to help you realize your architectural dreams.
This insightful list is once more brought to you by Insiderbits. As always, we’re dedicated to uncovering the latest and most effective tools in all segments to make your life easier.
We invite you to explore more with us. Check our selection of articles that offer insights, tips, and tools for all sorts of subjects beyond architecture. Let your creativity soar!
