Architectural drawing

Architectural drawing software from Autodesk empowers you to bring your designs to life.

What is architectural drawing?

This is a technical drawing of a building (or building project) used to: develop a design idea into a coherent proposal; communicate ideas and concepts; enable construction by a building contractor; make a record of an existing building. It is created with CAD (computer-aided design) software.  

Using AutoCAD in an architectural office environment

Types of architectural drawing

  • Rendering of an open office building with a cross section cut out, showing the interior space

    Concept drawing

    Concept drawings are used by architects and interior designers as a quick and simple way of exploring initial ideas for designs. 

  • CAD drawing of Old St. Marks Church created in AutoCAD LT

    Site drawing

    A site plan is a detailed engineering drawing that shows information about grading, landscaping, building arrangement, topography, and other details.  

  • Architectural rendering of a steel hall project

    Structural drawing

    A structural drawing is a plan for how a building will be built. These types of architect drawing are concerned with the load-carrying members of a structure.

Architectural drawing software

How is architectural drawing software used?

  • Detroit’s Beacon Park features the award-winning Lumen restaurant building

    TOULOUKIAN TOULOUKIAN

    Architecture firm drives urban renewal

    Award-winning architecture firm uses AutoCAD to drive urban renewal, including revitalization of a Detroit park with adaptive reuse and green design. 

  • Final installation of lobby seating

    DESIGNSBYJCM

    Using AutoCAD to draft and assemble millworks

    Discover how AutoCAD drives a new business for architectural millwork drawing of custom-produced cabinetry, desks, and more.

  • Rendering of COVID-19 emergency facility

    FALKBUILT-SPRUNG STRUCTURES 

    The leap to full-service architectural design

    Falkbuilt-Sprung partners with Autodesk experts to design and manufacture emergency facilities to help treat the overwhelming surge in COVID-19 cases. 

Architecture and CAD drawing resources

  • Get news, tips, and insider resources straight from Autodesk staff.

  • See how the AEC Collection helps support the structural design-to-fabrication process for precast, rebar and structural steel.

  • Use BIM architectural design software to win more work and retain clients. Create more innovative, sustainable designs, improve client communication, and manage data.

  • Not sure which architectural drawing program is right for you? Use this comparison chart to see which software will fit your needs best.

  • Find third-party technology providers that deliver solutions that complement Autodesk drawing software for architects.

  • Learn the fundamental concepts and workflows in Revit with this simple guide.