Architectural designs have evolved over a period of time. A lot of these designs need complex tools and conceptualization abilities. Since a majority of such projects are time-effort- and-capital intensive, tools in the form of architecture-related software come into play. These software ensure the project is well planned right in the initial stages, and well monitored and controlled during the execution stages.Amongst many other benefits, the accuracy of work that these software provide is noteworthy. Moreover, efficient time management to ensure that the project is completed as planned is another significant area where the software come handy, thereby saving on time and effort cost.
Hence, to assist the construction project managers, architects or other construction workers at various levels, software are created that aid in the process of construction. These construction software are an assimilation of process and information that are required to perform essential construction-related functions, aided by programs that facilitate such processes on your computer system. The use of computer aided design (CAD) software is amongst the top in the architecture trends. These increase productivity by reducing the amount of time spent on construction purposes.
To understand the importance of the application of these software in construction projects, one must first know the benefits of these software:
i) Increased Productivity
Modern architecture requires techniques of conceptualisation and construction. For any construction project, the design team needs to be able to visualise the final outcome. The CAD design makes it possible for the design engineer to conceptualise the design on paper as well as in 3D.Using the CAD software, you can see a detailed layout plan of the various floors of the building, well-described views of the building and a 3D map of that building. If there are changes to be made then you can make it at this level. CAD Software thus offer a lot of flexibility right at the initial stages of a building project. Architects along with their team are able to complete a comprehensive task in a very short period of time and that too with increased accuracy.
ii) High Quality
CAD software are developed in such a way that a number of tasks can be done using these. There are a number tools that aid in a thorough analysis of the architectural design. There are many other options for inspecting the proposed design.These software are built to offer maximum accuracy in the development of the design plans. Thus there is an overall reduction in the errors that can spring up at various stages of construction management. Since the CAD design that the software offers is well-detailed, wastage of time, resources and money is also minimised.
iii) Quick Solutions to Tasks
Web based CAD software that allow instant access to the architectural design from anywhere are the new point of interest in the architectural trends. With the WiFi connectivity, the entire team of the architects is able to access the files and work on their relative tasks.The construction manager along with his team can update the tasks that are to be done at various levels by required professionals using the software. This information is immediately received by the construction team and work begins in the flow that is defined by the construction manager. The professionals can respectively update the progress of work being done at the site. Hence quick solutions to the tasks that have been assigned for the project can be given.
iv) Detailed Documentation
A modern house requires complex details of architectural design and construction. These details have to be clear and easy to understand for the engineers as well as the mason or the plumber. The CAD software provides the facility of creating layout plans with the minutest of the details required for each construction worker.The software aids in development of architectural design with increased legibility, utmost accuracy and least or no errors. The most important step at the conceptualisation stage is documentation of the design. This will act as the pivot in future construction-related decisions and tasks for that project. These documentation consist of dimensions and geometries of the building. Material requirements, cost calculation and time period required for the completion of the project are some other points that are covered during documentation. The software allows you to make a detailed document of the construction project.
These above are some advantages that are offered by CAD software. These software are designed to facilitate ease of work, accuracy, detailing and minimisation of errors at various stages. ProjectLink offers you a vast range of CAD software used for construction management projects. Let’s take a look at the top 5 software that are trending:
Buildings are being created with great details. Parks and public spaces are being given a welcoming feel to attract more and more people. Roads and pathways are being constructed to aim the comfort and accessibility for the people who use these. With all these details being kept in mind during conceptualisation and construction, future safety of the site and people who use it becomes a crucial consideration. Cases of ramming cars and accidents due to stray vehicles are common.
There are bollards that are used to control the movement of traffic. These traffic bollards are placed in such a way that there is enough space between two bollards for special vehicles and cycles to pass through but not enough space for cars to move through. The placement of driveway bollards is such that it limits the traffic movement at required places on the roads or even on highways. It has been recorded that with the use of traffic bollards there is a considerable reduction in the number of road accidents.
Buildings and public areas also need protection from ram raiding. There are many buildings that have seating arrangements along the sidewalk, some have cafes and others have small shops. These areas need protection from moving traffic. The outdoor walls of these buildings need to be protected. Bollards installed along the periphery of such places are called protective bollards. Some important government, private buildings and historical sites also keep such arrangements. The purpose of protective bollards is to safeguard the area from accidental collision by vehicles.
Bollards that have lights installed in the unit are called illuminated bollards. These bollards find their use in areas where the vehicles require directions or in remote sections that are not very well illuminated. A light unit is attached at the base of the bollard. The entire structure is fitted into the foundation illuminating the post from all the angles. This makes it visible from all sides as well as from a distance. The bollard lights are housed in the foundation of the post, this protects the unit from possible damage due to collision by vehicles.
Bollards find their use in roadways, leisure parks, sport fields, playgrounds, as site perimeters, for pathways, landscapes and so on. Nowadays bollards are being designed to aesthetically serve their purpose. Additions like solar panel enabled lights, lamps and planters are being attached to these. Bollards can be installed in places where a differentiation of traffic is required. As cycling finds its place in the most popular means of transport, separate lanes for cyclists can be formed using bollards. Bollard lights are useful during the foggy days. Driveway bollards on the other hand not only assist in easy movement of traffic but also give way to a protected space of pedestrians. To add to the list, bollards check the “smash and grab” crimes that are caused by ramming of vehicles into the buildings.
The most attractive part of a house is usually the garden. And, if your garden and the outdoor space is well illuminated, then you sure would be the most envied property owner in your locality. You do not necessarily have to have a green thumb to develop a great outdoor area. A landscape designer, a gardener and some good lighting will do the job.
Lanterns carry a vintage romantic feel to it and that is reflected in the spot where it is installed. Lanterns can be placed in porches, along the poolside or by the rose bush near a garden bench. These add a touch of elegant sophistication to the area you place these lanterns at. Landscape lighting ideas using lanterns are applied to theme based outdoors.
Gardens and backyards have walkways. To beautify these, people plant flowers or shrubs along the pathway. This serves the purpose during daylight but after sun-down, lighting is essential. The use of illumination on the pathways is to ensure safety. If you select the right kind of garden lights, these pathways will be a feast to look at while you take a walk.
Lights that mimic the moonlight seem to be a great idea for people who live in a crowded neighbourhood. The moonlight effect can be achieved using the downlight. The lights are installed at a height so that the light illuminates a larger area. These lights are available in high colour rendering index (CRI) and high lumen. These lights can be used to light up sitting area or even in pool landscaping.
As the name suggests, there are lights that can be installed in pools, ponds, fountains, constructed waterfalls etc. These lights are designed in such a way that these can be installed on the walls or floor of a pool or fountain. It lights up the water body from within thus giving it a lively appearance during the night. It adds on to the aesthetic aspect. Pool lights are often used in pool landscaping.
What is in your imagination, has to be on papers. This means, the conceptualisation of your garden area has to turn into a blueprint. In order to make this blueprint, you need to make a flat-sketch of your garden with each and every small detail. This includes all sorts of vegetation present in your garden, pathways, seating if any, existing lights etc. This flat-sketch will help you with the new garden design.