How the Codesign iPad App is Enhancing Architectural Concept Design

Cloud collaboration, user-friendly design interface access, generative AI, and zero-carbon future design are pivotal features that today designers aim to incorporate into their workflows. Codesign is revolutionizing the architectural and design landscape by providing these features and many more, through its innovative approach. 

Originating from the need to free architects from cumbersome BIM systems that impede early-stage creativity, Codesign becomes the co-partner throughout the design process, seamlessly integrating with Archicad, Forma, Revit, and Vectorworks. It allows architects to turn sketches into specified 3D models using the iPad and Apple Pencil.

In our insightful conversation with Campbell Yule, CEO, and Founder of Codesign, we explore the app’s unique features, integration of cutting-edge technologies like AI, its contribution to sustainability, and how the product addresses challenges in the design industry.

1- How did the idea for Codesign come about?

Codesign originated in response to architects facing challenges with cumbersome BIM systems that hindered their creativity during the early design stage. Despite the existence and maturation of BIM systems over the last few decades, there has been a notable absence of software specifically developed for front-end design. While BIM systems excel in producing coordinated documentation, they demand numerous upfront decisions, which slows down the creative process.

2- What problem does Codesign solve in the architecture industry, and how?

Codesign empowers architects to sketch ideas rapidly while incorporating downstream data to drive their concept in real-time. The app integrates seamlessly with BIM systems like Archicad, Forma, Revit, and Vectorworks. The name reflects that the app is your co-partner through the design process.

Codesign enables you to rapidly sketch ideas and instantly understand if your concept is feasible while considering other options. You can explore, iterate, and design faster than ever before. Architects can explore more options in less time. We have evolved from the brand’s first inception, and as an architect’s go-to app for the conceptual design stage, we’re continuously reinventing our features based on feedback.

3- What are some of the distinctive features of Codesign?

Codesign is an impressive combination of advanced technology and ease of use. Any architect can sketch. It’s as simple as that. The features are very intuitive. Rapidly sketch ideas and allow the data to drive your design.

Additionally, Codesign facilitates collaboration amongst different stakeholders of projects. It can easily create shared insights regarding the potential of a project. The app has created a brand-new way to model, display, and visualize early concepts for greater collaboration, comprehension, and results.

We recently introduced our Carbon Calculator and integrated AI, as well as our BIM Integration Tools. In November 2023, we collaborated with 2050 Materials to introduce an early-stage carbon calculator to our iPad app for architects. We are equally thrilled about our generative AI feature, which transforms simple massing models into visually rich creations, offering creative inspiration.

In terms of cost, we offer three tiered annual plans at a minimal fee, and there’s also a free trial available to anyone. The only limitation is that it can be used for only two projects.

4- How does Codesign use AI and machine learning to improve the design process?

Codesign enables users to take their renderings to new heights by using their sketch as the source of generative AI — enabling endless possibilities. Additionally, architects can test their ideas against downstream data like areas, massings, sun studies, context, and carbon implications.

Codesign’s integrated AI utilizes a natural language prompt to inspire building designs. Employing AI for creative ideas has never been simpler. Users can mass their building in Codesign to establish size, shape, and usage, and from there, they can promptly use AI to gain inspiration.

As designers finalize the details of their design with Codesign features like cladding and columns, they can repeatedly utilize AI to explore options. The Codesign AI interface enables users to specify the overall AI strength and the text prompt containing their instructions.

5- How does Codesign contribute to sustainability in design?

According to the International Energy Agency, 40% of all global emissions come from the built environment. Our engineers considered this knowledge when creating the app. While in the conceptual stage, you can run carbon calculations for all your design options. This information is great for kick-starting conversations regarding building performance and environmental impact.

Codesign’s Carbon Calculator utilizes data from the software’s building model, integrating it with user-selected properties to calculate the carbon impact of a design. Users can experiment with various building and material types, receiving prompt feedback on their choices. By incorporating these calculations with Codesign’s built-in design options, architects gain the ability to explore and evaluate outcomes early in the design process.

6- How does Codesign ensure data security and privacy on the platform?

The app is safe, secure, and exclusively licensed to the registered user. The owner of the license is in control of who can gain access or share amongst colleagues. We also offer custom company clouds for organizations to access projects in a guarded environment.

7- What future developments or updates can we expect from Codesign? 

We’re constantly working to improve our user features, app navigation, and integrations with other systems. However, I’m not able to discuss what’s currently in development. But when I am, you’ll be the first to know.

Our sole mission has always been to empower architects with an intense focus on the conceptual design stage of the architectural process. We want them to thrive where they’re the most valuable — in the earliest part of the design stage. We’ll maintain this position, white-knuckled.

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Explore the latest features and updates of Codesign right here , and sign up to test this exciting new solution — where innovation meets design!