Vectorworks Architect review

Vectorworks Architect sits between drafting software and strict BIM. It lets designers sketch, draft and model freely on the Siemens Parasolid engine, then carry the same model through schematic design, design development and construction documentation, where model updates flow into the drawings. Vectorworks highlights the information side of BIM: schedules can be automated, costs calculated and energy efficiency analyzed from the model as early as schematic design. File exchange is a strength, with openBIM and IFC support and direct links to Revit, SketchUp, Rhino, Photoshop and Cinema4D, so a firm can work with consultants on other platforms. Maxon Redshift adds real-time rendering for client presentations, and the program also produces line drawings, VR and panoramas. Vectorworks says firms can move to BIM without replacing their CAD standards and libraries. We could not load a US price, so its value score is conservative until that check is done.

Who it is for

Architects who want 2D drafting, flexible 3D modeling and BIM documentation in one program.

Price

See vendor pricing (USD check pending).

US price check pending. See the vendor pricing page.

Key features

• Sketching, drafting and modeling on the Siemens Parasolid engine
• Model changes that update construction documentation automatically
• Schedules, cost calculation and energy analysis from model data
• openBIM and IFC support with direct links to Revit, SketchUp, Rhino, Photoshop and Cinema4D
• Maxon Redshift real-time visualization

Strengths and weaknesses

• Strength: Freeform modeling without the strict presets of many BIM tools
• Strength: Covers pre-design through construction documentation
• Strength: Broad file import and export support
• Weakness: US pricing not shown on the page we could load
• Weakness: Smaller user base than Revit in large engineering firms
• Weakness: Range of tools means a longer learning period

Key facts

• Current version: Vectorworks 2027
• Modeling engine: Siemens Parasolid
• Interoperability: openBIM, IFC, links with Revit, SketchUp, Rhino
• Free trial: Yes

Where it ranks

Vectorworks Architect is No. 7 in our Best Construction Design Software verdict.