Mastering ArchiCAD

• Familiarity with operating a computer, managing files, and navigating software interfaces

Audience

• Architects
• Architectural designers

ArchiCAD is a comprehensive Building Information Modeling (BIM) software developed by Graphisoft. It is primarily used by architects, designers, and engineers to design buildings, interiors, landscapes, and urban areas in both 2D and 3D. ArchiCAD enables users to create detailed models and manage every aspect of a building’s lifecycle, from design and visualization to documentation and construction.

This instructor-led, live training (online or onsite) is aimed at intermediate-level architects who wish to use ArchiCAD for architectural design, building information modeling (BIM), and advanced construction documentation.

By the end of this training, participants will be able to:

• Learn to create, modify, and manage both 2D and 3D views within projects.
• Understand and manipulate objects, components, and libraries in ArchiCAD.
• Create detailed building sections, elevations, and component details.
• Analyze and optimize building energy performance using ArchiCAD’s energy analysis tools.
• Develop photorealistic renderings and animations for presentations.
• Automate building processes and run performance simulations.

Format of the Course

• Interactive lecture and discussion.
• Lots of exercises and practice.
• Hands-on implementation in a live-lab environment.

Course Customization Options

• To request a customized training for this course, please contact us to arrange.

Introduction to ArchiCAD

• Overview of ArchiCAD and its applications in design and BIM
• Navigating the ArchiCAD interface and workspace
• Understanding basic 2D and 3D modeling principles
• Introduction to the Building Information Modeling (BIM) workflow
• Basic tools and commands for creating 3D models

Working with 2D and 3D Views

• Creating and switching between 2D and 3D views
• Understanding navigation tools and shortcuts
• Setting up multiple views for a project
• Exporting and printing 2D/3D views
• Troubleshooting common visualization issues

Working with Objects and Components

• Introduction to object libraries
• Creating custom objects and components
• Modifying and editing object properties
• Using object snapping, grouping, and interaction techniques

Working with Layers and Classes

• Setting up and managing layers
• Layer combinations and class management
• Controlling visibility and organizing design elements using layers
• Applying filters and overrides

Working with Building Materials

• Understanding building materials and properties
• Creating and assigning materials to objects
• Optimizing materials for rendering and visualization
• Troubleshooting material-related issues

Working with Sections, Elevations, and Details

• Introduction to sections and elevations
• Creating and editing section and elevation views
• Adding details to sections and elevations
• Working with markers, clipping planes, and view settings

Working with Building Schedules and Documentation

• Creating and managing schedules (e.g., door, window, material lists)
• Generating reports and customizing schedules
• Exporting and organizing project documentation
• Best practices for setting up project templates

Building Energy Analysis and Performance Optimization

• Introduction to building energy modeling
• Performing energy analysis and generating reports
• Optimizing building energy consumption and sustainability
• Integrating energy analysis into the BIM workflow

Rendering and Visualization Techniques

• Introduction to rendering techniques
• Working with lighting, materials, and textures
• Creating photorealistic renderings and visualizations
• Animating and exporting 3D walkthroughs

Building Collaboration and Interoperability

• Managing teamwork and collaboration in ArchiCAD
• Exporting and importing data using Industry Foundation Classes (IFC)
• Integrating ArchiCAD with other software tools (e.g., Revit, Navisworks)
• Troubleshooting data exchange and collaboration issues

Advanced Building Automation and Simulation

• Setting up building automation systems
• Running simulations for thermal, lighting, and structural performance
• Optimizing building systems for energy efficiency
• Using simulation data to inform design decisions

Summary and Next Steps