To become an Architectural Designer, you must know how to use industry-standard software. You can enroll in an architectural design class to learn how to use a range of software to create models of your projects, including AutoCAD and Revit.
What is an Architectural Designer?
Architectural Designers transform design concepts into reality. When studying architectural design, students learn how to create functional, sustainable, responsive, and aesthetically pleasing structures. This role requires one to develop technical design skills and soft skills. Architectural Designers must also keep up with industry trends. In recent years, sustainable design has become more popular among home and business owners. Many clients expect new builds to incorporate sustainable designs and energy-efficient systems. An Architectural Designer looking forward knows how to keep up with these trends and advancements in architecture and construction.
Architectural Designers often work with other professionals involved in architecture and construction. Architects usually lead an architectural design team. They plan and oversee the construction process while also managing contracts. Architectural Designers may also work alongside Interior Designers, who make indoor spaces functional, and BIM Specialists. This role may also require collaborating with engineers, contractors, and clients. The level of teamwork associated with Architectural Designer roles means that individuals working in this field need excellent communication skills.
What Software Do Architectural Designers Use?
Architectural Designers use a variety of software in their work. When searching for architectural design training courses, you’ll likely come across programs that teach students how to use design software like Revit and AutoCAD. Keep reading to find out about the software you’ll need to learn to start a career as an Architectural Designer.
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Autodesk Revit
Autodesk Revit, also known as Revit, is a building information modeling (BIM) software. With Revit, Architectural Designers can create 3D models of buildings. Revit allows users to explore design options and get an understanding of the space within the design. Other professionals, such as engineers and contractors may use Revit, which allows for collaboration with a project’s Architectural Designer. Professionals and students note that Revit has a complex interface and a steeper learning curve than other drafting programs. You can develop a basic understanding of Revit in around two weeks, including a grasp of the basic workflow and using drawing tools, but you’ll need in-depth training to master the software.
Autodesk AutoCAD
AutoCAD is a computer-aided design (CAD) software application used for 2D and 3D drafting, design, and modeling. Architectural Designers use AutoCAD to create floor plans, elevations, and sections within their projects. The software includes built-in tools that can analyze and fix weaknesses in a building’s design, making the design process more efficient. Powerful features within AutoCAD have made the software an integral part of the architectural design process. Many consider AutoCAD to be a simpler tool than Revit, but the software does have a learning curve. AutoCAD has an extensive command library that can take some time to learn. You can expect to spend anywhere from one month to one year mastering AutoCAD, depending on how much time you have to learn.
Autodesk Forma
Autodesk Forma is a cloud software that provides users with AI-powered tools for pre-design and schematic design. Architectural Designers use Autodesk Forma to create 3D models. With the software, they can perform environmental impact analysis. The software allows designers to view area analysis to help them understand area metrics, sun hours analysis to evaluate the site’s sun exposure, and daylight potential analysis to ensure that the project will meet daylight requirements. Also included in Autodesk Forma is a total carbon analysis. Users of Autodesk Forma have said that the software is relatively easy to learn. Students with previous experience using design software of 3D modeling will have an easier time understanding the tools and features of Forma.
Photoshop
Architectural Designers, along with most other types of designers, should learn Adobe Photoshop. Professionals use the software to aid in the architectural design process, from start to finish. With Photoshop, Architectural Designers can elevate their renderings and improve workflow efficiency. The software includes tools that allow users to simulate materials along with lighting and shadow manipulation. Users can also streamline their process with tailored workspaces and shortcuts. Beginner-level Photoshop users can learn how to use the software in about two to three months. The primary challenges new users face include understanding the Pen Tool, working with layers in images, and enhancing images properly.
How to Learn Architectural Designer Software
Architectural Designers need a broad range of skills, including knowledge of and experience using architectural design software. They should know how to use CAD software, like AutoCAD, and BIM software, such as Revit.
You have several options for learning how to use architectural design software. The first option you can try is self-training. Although not recommended for students with no prior experience, self-teaching is often the least expensive training option. To self-teach, seek out free online resources that will teach you the basics of using a variety of industry-standard software. You can find training videos on YouTube as well as online tutorials to help you get started with software like AutoCAD and Revit. Another self-teaching option is to enroll in a free, short-form on-demand class. These classes, offered by online learning platforms like Udemy and Coursera, give beginners the chance to learn a few basic lessons created by experts. Many students find self-teaching challenging because they don’t have access to an instructor who can answer their questions. If you decide to self-teach, check out online forums where Architectural Designers and students meet to ask and answer questions about software and other relevant topics.
You can also find paid on-demand classes that cover architectural design software. Unlike free classes, regular on-demand classes usually include access to more in-depth lessons. These days, many schools and training centers also provide on-demand students access to instructor office hours or tutoring sessions where they can have 1-on-1 time with an instructor. During these sessions, they can ask about challenging concepts or for help with projects. On-demand training provides a convenient and affordable way to learn architectural design software. Before enrolling, however, make sure that you’re comfortable learning online without the direct guidance of an instructor.
One of the most popular learning methods is live learning. You can enroll in live online or in-person architectural design training classes. Live instructors lead students through lessons and can answer their questions. Most students prefer live training because they’re used to instructor guidance when learning. A live instructor can also offer demonstrations and customized feedback. Live training usually costs more than on-demand training, although many schools offer payment plans.
Other Skills Needed to Become an Architectural Designer
Architectural Designers need project management and communication skills to properly lead design teams and ensure that a project will meet the client’s needs. Project management skills will help an Architectural Designer organize a project and ensure that team members stay on task. A project management program will teach them how to keep track of timelines and budgets while also resolving any conflict that arises between team members. Excellent communication skills will aid in the project management process and ensure a smooth relationship with the client.
In addition, Architectural Designers need to understand design principles. Aspiring Architectural Designers should enroll in a design-focused class to learn about spatial awareness in design so that they can understand how people will interact with the space in their projects. They will also learn about conceptual design, or how to develop concepts based on a project’s requirements related to spatial layout and materials. Attending a design class will help Architectural Designers develop the creativity needed to work on a range of projects.
Learn the Skills to Become an Architectural Designer at Noble Desktop
Interested in developing the skills needed to become an Architectural Designer? Check out these accredited classes offered by VDCI.
In VDCI’s online Revit Architecture Professional Program, you’ll learn Revit Architecture. Lessons included in this part-time program will teach you beginner to advanced-level skills. The program includes five Revit courses: Introduction to Revit, Intermediate Revit, and BIM Construction Documents I, II, and III. Over 26 weeks, you’ll spend 140 clock hours learning the skills needed to create models of real-world structures and buildings. Students who complete the class with a grade of 70% or higher will receive a verified credential from Accredible.
If you want to learn Revit quickly, you can instead enroll in VDCI’s Revit Fundamentals Fast-Track Program. This program includes two online Revit courses that will help you develop the in-demand technical skills needed to create 3D models used in the field. VDCI’s fast-track program gives you the chance to learn Revit quickly and affordably compared to traditional degree programs. Tuition is roughly $1,200 plus fees, with payment plans available. You can expect to finish the course in 12 weeks or 60 clock hours.
Enroll in VDCI’s BIM Certificate Program to learn the skills and knowledge applied in Revit Architecture. The class teaches you how to create construction documents directly from the BIM model and lets you specialize in AutoCAD Fundamentals, Revit MEP, Revit Structure, or another training path. This accelerated, accredited program includes 290 clock hours spent taking lessons and working on a capstone project. After completing the course, you’ll receive a verified digital credential from Accredible.
Need to learn the essentials of AutoCAD? Register for VDCI’s Introduction to AutoCAD class and learn how to use the software application to create and manage your drawings. This 100% online class includes lessons on drafting symbols, kitchen and bath fixtures, and a floor plan. You’ll also learn how to create and insert blocks and externally reference files. You can expect hands-on lessons as you draw a floor plan for a Habitat for Humanity residential project. To ensure you develop the skills and knowledge expected, you’ll take quizzes related to your project, engage with classmates in a discussion forum, and submit regular progress updates. VDCI encourages you to engage with others in your discussion forums and during 1:1 time with your instructor.