Interscale Content Hub – Since John Lansdown and Tom Maver’s 1984 paper “CAD in Architecture and Building,” we’ve seen a lot of new ideas emerge.
Absolutely, CAD in architecture is now the norm for innovation, efficiency, and precision in the modern design process.
As architects try to push the limits of design, computer-aided design (CAD) tools have become essential for creating, modifying, and improving architectural projects.
So, let’s look at how relevant the fundamentals of CAD are going to be in 2024 and in the future, shall we?!
What is CAD in Architecture?
CAD in architecture is when you use computer software to create, analyse and modify architectural designs.
This technology has come a long way since it first came out. It now lets architects see their projects in 2D and 3D.
In their study, “Effects of the Use of Computer Aided Design (CAD) on Architecture: A Quantitative Approach,” Olukoya Obafemi A. P. et al., found how CAD tools like AutoCAD, Revit, and ArchiCAD have become essential for architectural design.
These tools give you precise control over design elements and help you create complex structures more efficiently.
The use of CAD in architecture isn’t only limited to drafting.
As Yi-Feng Chang and Shen-Guan Shih explain in their paper “BIM-based Computer-Aided Architectural Design,” CAD tools have moved on to include Building Information Modelling (BIM) systems.
This shift from basic drafting tools to full-blown design environments lets us bring in tons of data, making it easier for design and construction teams to make decisions and work together.
How is CAD Used in Architecture?
CAD is used at different stages of the design and construction process. At the start of the process, CAD software is used for conceptual design, which allows architects to explore different ideas quickly and efficiently.
This stage often involves putting together 2D plans and 3D models that form the basis for further development.
As Obafemi points out, being able to tweak designs in a virtual space cuts down on the time and money spent on traditional drafting, making CAD a total game-changer for modern architects.
One of the most significant developments in CAD technology is its integration with BIM, as highlighted in the study by Chang and Shih.
BIM lets you create a digital model of a building, showing its physical and functional characteristics.
This model is more than just a visual tool; it’s also a comprehensive database containing all the info you need to build and manage the building throughout its lifecycle.
For instance, in the case study about the Academia Sinica laboratory building, using BIM meant all the different engineering teams could work together more closely, which helped to cut down on mistakes and make sure everything in the design was reflected in the finished construction.
What’s more, CAD tools have had a big impact on architectural education, as Obafemi and Oluwaseun have shown.
Bringing CAD into the curriculum has moved the focus from traditional hand-drafting to digital design, giving students the skills they need to succeed in a tech-driven industry.
However, this shift has also sparked debates about the potential drawbacks, such as a reduction in students’ manual drafting skills and the over-reliance on software solutions.
When it comes to architectural acoustics, CAD and computing are a big part of making sure the sound experience in buildings is as good as it can be.
As Joanna Jablonska and Roman Czajka explain in their book “CAD Tools and Computing in Architectural and Urban Acoustics,” CAD lets architects model how sound waves move around a space, which helps them predict and avoid acoustic problems.
Bringing acoustic simulations and calculations into the mix lets architects design spaces that are easy to understand, keep noise down and make sure people can hear clearly.
For more on how BIM can save you money, please refer to “How Does BIM Save Money? When Will You See the ROI of BIM Projects?“
Benefits of CAD in Architecture
One of the best things about CAD is how it can help you get more done in less time. Olukoya and Oluwaseun found that 85% of architecture students and lecturers think CAD is more time-efficient than traditional drafting methods.
The fact you can edit and revise designs easily in CAD encourages architects to experiment with different options and refine their concepts more flexibly.
On top of making things more productive, CAD also helps to improve design quality.
CAD tools help to avoid mistakes and inconsistencies that can happen when you’re drafting manually.
Using CAD in architecture also helps keep costs down.
Automating tasks like generating schedules and quantity take-offs means less manual labour and fewer costly mistakes.
CAD lets architects test out and tweak designs to make them more energy-efficient and sustainable. This could save clients money in the long run.
As well as these more obvious benefits, CAD also makes it easier for everyone involved in a project to work together and communicate.
CAD models and drawings are digital, which means they can be shared easily and information can be exchanged seamlessly.
Popular CAD Software for Architecture
The architecture industry has seen lots of different CAD software tools being developed. Each one has different features which are useful for different parts of the design and construction process.
AutoCAD, Revit, and ArchiCAD are the most popular ones, and they’re now essential tools in architectural practice.
The study by Olukoya found most of the respondents (38%) use AutoCAD software, while 15% use SketchUp.
What’s more, 10% of respondents use ArchiCAD, 10% use 3D Max, and 13% use other unconventional CAD software.
Meanwhile, 4% of respondents still use the traditional method for drafting in architectural practice and education.
For more on this, you might want to read the BIM reference on “Clients Asking Why Use BIM. Are you Ready with Data-based Answers?“
What is CAD Support System in Architecture?
What’s really made CAD shine in recent years is a solid support system. So, what kind of support system are we talking about?
A CAD support system for architects is a complete set of services and expertise designed to help architects and firms get to grips with CAD software, streamline their workflows, and achieve great results on their projects.
From choosing the right software and getting it up and running to ongoing training, troubleshooting, and content creation, a CAD support system is there to catch you if you fall into any hurdles.
Take Studio Tate, for example. They made a smooth switch from ArchiCAD to Revit with the help of customised training and ongoing project support.
Similarly, Conquest Design Group made their design processes more efficient and improved collaboration by doing a full BIM/CAD discovery session and creating custom Revit templates and content.
So, a CAD support system helps firms deliver projects faster, with higher accuracy and less rework, which ultimately leads to better client satisfaction.
And yes, we at Interscale make sure your CAD system is up to date and fully optimised for your specific architectural goals and needs.
As you might have guessed, we tend to be a bit vague in our marketing, and we’re sorry if we’re making things a bit confusing for you at the moment.
So, we’d appreciate it if you could take the time to look into our capabilities by doing your own research and due diligence.
We think you’ll find our Interscale BIM Management page a good place to start.
Or if you’re ready for a coffee and croissants, let’s schedule a catch-up. We’re ready to talk through the challenges you’re facing on your CAD project.
In Closing
The future looks bright for CAD technology, which is set to revolutionise the field of architectural design and practice once again.
CAD tools like AutoCAD, Revit, and ArchiCAD have become essential for architects, helping them create better designs and manage projects more effectively.
So, CAD in architecture has moved from just helping designers to facilitating decision-making and bringing together teams across the AEC industry.
