Vectorworks Architect FAQ
[+] Who uses Vectorworks Architect?
Architects and interior designers take advantage of the many special features and functions in Vectorworks® Architect. With Vectorworks Architect, you can handle all phases of a building's design: quickly drawing the first idea or sketch, easily developing the design, creating compelling presentations, and documenting construction plans, all while visualizing the design in 2D or 3D. Multi-disciplinary firms can also benefit from Vectorworks Designer, a scaled-up version of Architect that contains a full suite of tools for architecture and landscape. To learn more about Vectorworks Designer see our
Designer page.
Vectorworks Architect is known for its streamlined user interface and workflow. Getting you up and running quickly is our goal. Typically, after a two-day training course you'll be able to understand the basics of Vectorworks Architect and you'll be able to start designing. We also have a number of self-training options available, so that you can learn at your own pace. We offer tutorials with illustrated, step-by-step instructions, and sample designs. See our training page for a list of tutorials.
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[+] Is there a student version of Vectorworks?
Yes. Students around the world use Vectorworks Designer, which combines all the functionality of Vectorworks Landmark, Architect, Spotlight, and Machine Design into a single application. For more information, visit our
academic website.
Institutions of higher education and other schools throughout the world have already discovered Vectorworks Architect. To effectively prepare your students for a successful career in architecture, please contact our educational team on our
academic website.
You are not obligated to upgrade at any time. If you choose to upgrade, you'll find it is only for a fraction of the original cost. Nemetschek North America offers a variety of services (many of them free) to help our users succeed with Vectorworks products. Take advantage of free options like service pack updates, technical support, the eDispatch online newsletter, and tech tips. Or, for more personalized training, you can purchase workbooks, training CDs, online training options, premium support services, and group or individual training courses. Check out the many resources on our
training page.
Vectorworks Architect handles a large variety of import and export formats. You can export your plan seamlessly in a DXF/DWG format, which will work accurately with the application your client or colleague may be using. You can even export BIM models successfully to other downstream BIM applications using our IFC 2x3 export. You can create PDFs, JPGs, TIFs and MOVs of your designs for your clients to see. Many other formats (Parasolid X_T, SAT, 3DS, EPS, PICT, STL, and IGES, among others) allow you to exchange data freely with almost every application.
[+] Can I install my licensed software on both a Macintosh and a PC?
No. Your license is based on a single platform of your choice. When ordering your license, please specify Macintosh or Windows as your operating system. If you need to switch operating systems in the future, simply contact your sales representative.
[+] Can I design a 3D model in Vectorworks Architect?
Yes. Yes. Yes! In fact, we specialize in 3D, with best-in-class modeling now available in Vectorworks Architect 2009. You’ll see many 3D objects such as walls, windows, doors, and stairs. Additionally, Vectorworks Architect features a set of sophisticated tools that facilitate true, free-form modeling.
[+] Can I create renderings, videos, and path animations with Vectorworks Architect?
Yes, with Vectorworks Architect you have the ability to create videos, path, and solar animations. With the Renderworks add-on, you'll have the ability to create high-quality photorealistic and non-photorealistic rendered models that you can use for producing stunning images, rendered solar animations, and rendered path animations.
[+] Can co-workers simultaneously work on the same project?
You bet. Vectorworks Architect uses reference technology to allow several co-workers to work on the same project simultaneously. You can reference symbols, parts of a plan, or even whole floors together. And, with the help of workgroup referencing, the office standards can be set up so that everyone can access the same symbol libraries, the office standards colors, default documents, standard organizational structures, and much more. With Vectorworks Architect, you can all move ahead together.
[+] Can I draw the floor plans directly in Vectorworks Architect?
Yes. In Vectorworks Architect, you can draw plans directly. Vectorworks Architect provides a structure of design layers, sheet layers, and classes for drawing organization. Drawing sets can be very easily organized so that you can quickly accomplish floor plans, sketches, elevations, details, sections, and schedules.
[+] What graphics options does Vectorworks Architect offer?
We want you to have a lot of freedom while designing, and we’re known for our graphics capabilities—so we have tons of options: colored fills, gradients, unlimited colors, variable line weights, sketch rendering styles, and many other tools to help you realize your exact vision.
[+] Are object libraries included in the purchase price?
Yes. There are no extra charges for all of the extra objects you’ll get—thousands of items like symbols for manufacturer specific windows, doors, HVAC equipment, details, equipment, human figures, fixtures, furnishings, designer furniture, vehicles, trees, and plants. We update all libraries constantly, this content is completely customizable, and you can even add your own.
[+] Is Vectorworks Architect suitable for large projects?
Many world-renowned, award-winning architects and firms—like Rios Clementi Hale Studios, Studio Daniel Libeskind, tec Architecture, and Leers Weinzapfel Associates—as well as thousands of successful designers around the world, all depend on Vectorworks Architect for the design and execution of large-scale projects. The program deftly handles the needs and functions of a large project with the ease of a smaller project.
[+] How does Vectorworks Architect do BIM (Building information Modeling)?
Vectorworks Architect does BIM by being BIM. That means that as you create your 2D floor plans, you are creating a 3D model or vice versa. From the 3D model, you can produce your finished sheets automatically, including floor plans, sections, schedules, and elevations.
[+] Do Vectorworks Architect drawings look like other CAD drawings?
No. Vectorworks supports (and encourages) your individuality and does not dictate how your plans must look. We want you to create your own look. This is one of the many reasons why so many great architects choose Vectorworks Architect.
[+] Who can get the free Vectorworks Viewer?
You, your colleagues, your clients—anyone who wants to open, view, or print Vectorworks documents can get the free Viewer. The Viewer helps the plot service or printer who needs to work with Vectorworks files. Owners and clients can use the Viewer to see the documents without the need for a full version of Vectorworks. The files cannot be changed; all tools except those for revision control are blocked. With the Viewer, you can open drawings from all Vectorworks products.
Download it from our website, free of charge.
Windows: Minimum of 2GB RAM, typically 4GB
Windows XP SP3, Vista SP1
Macintosh: Minimum of 2GB RAM, typically 4GB
Mac OS X, starting from 10.4.11
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