Architects are using the latest iPad applications in their work as a way to foster creativity and boost client communication.

Essential Apps for the Modern Architect

As the architectural profession grew and evolved, so did the need to have proper project management and design tools. Here are some of the best iPad must-have apps that are gaining prominence in the architectural world today:

AutoCAD 360 and Autodesk FormIt 360 (iOS/Android)

• Open, edit, and upload drawings, both 2D and 3D, from any software.

• Make sure access to AutoCAD and Revit files is seamless while on the go.

PlanMan

• Comprehensive project management tool made by architects.

• Other features include client communication with CRM possibilities, team management, document management, and accounting integrations.

BIMx

• It combines 2D and 3D building project navigation.

• An interface to ArchiCAD programs and files, for use at on-site design and presentations.

Planimeter

• Measures various objects on maps with advanced precision.

• It comes with an in-built satellite map and GPS tracking for big projects.

Drawing and Sketching Apps To Make You More Creative

Aside from essential project management tools, architects rely heavily on the following drawing and sketching applications, which bring life to their vision:

SketchUp

• It covers a wide variety of 2D and 3D modeling requirements.

• Trusted by thousands of firms and practices over a 20-year period.

Concepts

• Allows you to draw and sketch with an infinite canvas.

• Versatile and user-friendly-ideal for architects and visual thinkers.

Unique Apps Offer Specialized Capabilities

In addition to those standard and creative tools, there are many specialized iPad apps that, in combination, offer architectural functions that will let them see and present their projects better.

Sunseeker

• Helps one understand sunlight exposure aspects with buildings.

• 3D view allows for visualizing the sun's movement around a building.

Polycam

• It uses LiDAR technology for 3D scans on the new iPad Pro and iPhone 12 Pro.

• Creates models accurately and quickly and exports data in a variety of formats, some of which are appropriate for exporting into other CAD software.

Field Work Apps Revolutionize On-Site Inspections

For work on the site, a new generation of apps is changing the way architects gather data and conduct their inspections:

ArchiSnapper

• It has features such as photo note snapping, sketching, and voice-to-text.

• Shares notes and drawings seamlessly in project management systems like PlanMan.

Magicplan

• Augmented reality technology for scanning rooms and suggesting improvements.

• Ideal for interior design work and quick field work.

DroneDeploy

• Collects rich visual data using drone technology.

• Data processing into unique outputs, including thermal and near-infrared maps.

With these iPad apps, architects will have a powerhouse toolkit for more productivity, creativity, and client engagement in the face of handling the complexities of modern design and project management.

Integration of these critical, creative, and specialized applications into work processes can take the architect's work to the next level through efficiency and precision, the two words that will keep architects at the top of their game.