Sketchup for architecture modeling

After experimenting with different softwares to model architectural projects over my student years (REVIT, 3dsmax, Rhino), I tested Sketchup once a couple of years ago and immediately found it suited to my needs.

It seemed to me the only CAD software where I felt I was drawing all the time, with sort of a magic pen, very precisely, while also being able to be give form to a 3d representation of my project that was extremely easy to inspect and model.

In particular, the scenes and layer management were key to make the whole modeling process stay rationalized for the engineer side of me.

It has its limits, of course, but they seem pretty far to me.

Learning to model in SketchUp

Mostly everything you need to learn about Sketchup modeling can be found online. Here’s a list of recommended channels that helped me a lot along the way (among the million that populate youtube) :

https://www.youtube.com/SketchUp

https://www.youtube.com/@Thesketchupessentials

https://www.youtube.com/@Mastersketchup

And for all I have been able to learn on the net while trying to get started on this modeling software, I’d like to give something back and share about my learnings from now on to others who might be in the same situation.

The basics : optimizing your workflow in Sketchup

Rigourous workflow is important not to waste time.

Here are the main tips to start with that I learned and improved on over various projects :

• Shortcut assignment + Gaming mouse
• Do not overwrite your files
• Always model in components
• Choosing axes and snapping to them
• Switching scenes using layers