Top iPad architecture apps to use in 2023
Being an architect means living in several worlds simultaneously. You need to do creative work, process data, engage in discussions, presentations, and much more. Naturally, this can become a nightmare without the right tools and organization.
Having the right toolkit with you at all times, as an architect, is a must in 2023. That’s why you need to invest some time in picking the right architectural iPad apps.
This list of architecture apps for iPads will help you build such a toolkit.
The essential iPad architecture apps
AutoCAD 360 and Autodesk FormIt 360 (iOS/Android)
AutoCAD and Autodesk have become the go-to software products for architects. The iPad app versions of these tools allow you to open and edit your AutoCAD and Revit files and upload 2D and 3D drawings made in any other software.
You can also use these iPad apps to work with large-scale models, review and commenting designs, and produce measurements of areas and structures.
Get the apps here:
PlanMan
This is the best project management software for architects we’ve developed to keep you from falling into logistical hell. PlanMan lets you manage your architecture projects from A to Z.
Starting with the client communication module with CRM features allows you to close leads to team management, document management, and accounting integrations.
PlanMan is explicitly built for architects, and it beats all the cookie-cutter project management software.
Get PlanMan here:
BIMx
BIMx offers an iPad app for architects that integrates 2D and 3D building project navigation. It’s also an interface for using ArchiCAD programs and files on a tablet.
Most architects use BIMx for on-site design and presentation purposes.
Get BIMx:
http://www.graphisoft.com/bimx/
Planimeter
This simple and powerful app lets you work with map data efficiently. Planimeter enables you to measure various objects on maps, and it’s good at advanced measurements for fences, paths, lawns, and much more.
The best part is that it has a satellite map built-in and can work with GPS tracking data for more extensive territories.
Get Planimeter:
http://planimeter.io/apps/iphone-ipad/main/
Drawing and sketching iPad apps for architects
SketchUp
The SketchUp iPad app is based on a software product over 20 years old, and it has helped thousands of firms and practices build their business.
SketchUp will cover pretty much all of your 2D and 3D modelling needs.
Get SketchUp:
https://www.sketchup.com/industries/architecture
Concepts
This iPad app makes drawing and sketching remarkably easy and will be a great addition to the stack of all visual thinkers, not just architects.
One of the best things about Concepts is you can draw infinitely using just one document/project without starting new ones.
https://apps.apple.com/app/concepts/id560586497#?platform=ipad
Unique iPad apps for architects
Sunseeker
Sunseeker app helps you understand the sunlight each part of the building would receive. The interactive 3D view will help you visualize how the sun would move around any building or lot daily and year-round.
Sunseeker is invaluable for explaining your concepts and designs to clients with clear visuals.
Get Sunseeker:
http://www.ozpda.com/sunseeker_iphone.php
Polycam
This app works on iPad Pro and iPhone 12 Pro and uses LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) module built into these devices. As a result, Polycam can run 3D scans of premises and build precise models in minutes.
Polycam lets you export the resulting data into different formats, including transferring it to CAD software, creating floor plans, and much more.
Get Polycam:
Field work architecture apps for iPad
ArchiSnapper
ArchiSnapper offers a few useful features, the on-site inspection one being the most noteworthy:
https://archisnapper.com/en/features/inspect-on-site
You can snap photo notes, sketch on them, share them with other tools and platforms, and export them into project management systems like PlanMan.
Voice notes are a nifty feature that saves a lot of time too. The voice-to-text feature works reportedly well and will let you quickly jot down your observations during on-site inspections.
Magicplan
This iPad app uses AR technology to scan the room you’re in to suggest improvements and add new elements. Magicplan will cover most of your interior design needs.
You can also use it for sketching, and it’s an invaluable tool for quick fieldwork sessions with clients.
Get Magicplan:
DroneDeploy
You should be if you are not using drones for aerial site intelligence! DroneDeploy makes it easy and allows you to harvest rich visual data for interior and exterior design.
Besides harvesting visual data, DroneDeploy lets you process it, creating unique outputs such as thermal and near-infrared maps.
Get DroneDeploy: