Cadimage Tools are an integrated suite of add-ons developed specifically for Graphisoft Archicad. They integrate directly into the standard Archicad interface, adding specialized menus, objects, and commands. Instead of fighting with generic objects, these tools provide parametric, highly customizable elements tailored to real-world construction logic. Core Cadimage Tools and Features

Developed by a team of architects and BIM managers based in New Zealand (with a focus on global construction standards), Cadimage solves the "last mile" problem of BIM—taking a model from 80% complete to 100% construction-ready.

: Enhances basic Archicad roofs by adding realistic details like ridge tiles, flashing, and gutters.

: Offers more intuitive controls for designing and editing complex staircases and railings compared to native tools.

are a suite of productivity-boosting plugins designed explicitly for Graphisoft Archicad . Developed and distributed by Central Innovation , these add-ons supercharge standard Building Information Modeling (BIM) workflows. They allow architects and structural designers to automate complex tasks, draft faster, and build hyper-realistic construction documentation.

: This is a critical step; you must install the CI Tools Work Environment to add the tool icons and menus to your Archicad interface. For a visual walkthrough of the setup process: How to install Cadimage tools in Archicad YouTube• Nov 12, 2024 Popular Tools & Basic Usage How to install Cadimage tools in Archicad

Limitations and considerations

Archicad excels at standard building geometry, but manipulating complex or non-standard shapes can be challenging. Objective provides advanced geometry editing tools directly within the 2D and 3D windows.

Roof detailing is where most models fail during construction documentation. Cadimage excels here.

Getting started with Ci Tools is a straightforward process:

Archicad’s default openings library can feel restrictive for specialized modern joinery. The Cadimage Doors + Windows tool allows architects to design intricate custom configurations. You can easily add complex glazing bars, specialized louvers, custom corner junctions, and detailed scheduling metrics without writing complex GDL code.

Create complex combinations of leaves, panels, transoms, and sidelights within a single element.

The Cadimage Portal app manages all installations. One click installs the entire suite. It supports ArchiCAD on both Mac and Windows.

Recent updates demonstrate Ci Tools' commitment to continuous improvement. The feature, introduced for ArchiCAD 29, is a perfect example. It allows users to easily define the visibility of glass, frame, and panel strips directly in 2D and 3D views. This granular control is crucial for representing modern façade designs accurately and is a feature not available natively.

Cadimage moved to a (monthly or annual) several years ago. This ensures you always get the latest building codes and ArchiCAD compatibility (usually updated within days of a new ArchiCAD release).

Because the tools are fully parametric, any change made in the 3D model reflects instantly in your 2D sections, elevations, and schedules. Conclusion

Representative tools and examples