3 Architecture Gears For Hi-Tech Future
3 Architecture previously Hawthorne Duff Architecture & Dean Buckeridge Architecture is poised to become a leader in the field of computer-aided design (CAD) - offering exciting benefits for designers, suppliers, the building industry and clients.
New Zealand born, US-trained software specialist Lincoln Ellis was commissioned by 3 Architecture and worked from their Christchurch offices from November to January, developing a unique design, detailing and presentation package for 3 Architecture and training staff to get the very best out of Gaphisoft's ArchiCAD programme.
Ellis, who grew up in New Zealand before moving to Australia and the United States, is founder of ArchiLINK, a leading consultancy business specializing in software training for architects and designers.
"ArchiLINK was created to help people anywhere. I have been travelling throughout the US, Canada and Europe," he says.
He describes ArchiCAD as "the fastest and most powerful architectural program in the world" - but says few designers are even aware of the software's true capability, and many use only 10% to 15% of its features.
"It's about using it to its full potential. Most people are using it to generate drawings, and are not doing that very well. You can also use it for your advertising, to get quantities, to co-ordinate with other consultants and engineers."
Clients have reported productivity gains of between 100% and 600%. "It's really very obvious - if you're not currently using a system like this, you're already losing money."
Ellis says ArchiCAD, which runs on both Mac and PC platforms, is "very simple and effective."
One big advantage is how easily plans can be adapted. It is easy to change or move doors and windows, for instance. It can also be used to incorporate different furniture, fabrics and colour schemes, as Ellis's wife, Elizabeth Freeman, an interior designer, demonstrates.
ArchiCAD creates brilliant 3D, multi-layer, photo-realistic images of a house as it is being designed. "People can't read plans; they can see a model and take it home. Architecture is 3D - it's crazy to do it in 2D," says Ellis.
Eventually, Ellis envisages most product suppliers will have their inventories online, making it possible to seamlessly design and build a house by specifying available materials, then forward the plans for approval by territorial authorities, then send them direct to the builder. This streamlining of business will make the whole process more efficient all round. 3 Architecture is establishing this process now.
He forecasts big changes over the next 10 years.
"The industry is headed for a change where these roles are merged into one - especially real estate and advertising."
3 Architecture partner Terry Duff is delighted with the difference the ArchiLINK input will make. "We need the best," says Duff. "It's just the beginning. The advantages are speed, quality and consistency."
However, cliients can rest assured that combined with the new initiatives, the old skills of vision - a steady hand and a sure eye for what works and looks appealing appealing - are not being forgotten, as partner Ray Hawthorne, who still uses a drawing board, can testify.
Clients increasing awareness of environmental issues is addressed by partner Dean Buckeridge whose expertise in both residential & commercial products incorporate elements of energy efficiency, natural materials and passive solar design.
By combining both high-tech and proven architectural skills,
3 Architecture is detemined to put itself on a firm footing for the future.
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