Nothing ensures your success in any job better than having all the right tools. This is especially true for architects. Not only do the right tools allow you to work more efficiently, but they ensure optimal performance, output, and customer satisfaction. Read on to check out some of the helpful tools architects should invest in; from technology to tools and equipment to furniture, these are some of the best tools for architects.
A Tablet
The power of a tablet in today’s world of architecture and design can’t be overstated. The two most popular tablets on today’s market, the Apple iPad and the Microsoft Surface, both have digital pen accessories that allow you to digitally draft, measure, and design. Moreover, both the Android and iOS platforms have several useful apps perfect for your work as an architect. One of the coolest apps is Procreate which is like using digital sketch paper and a pencil. Two other popular apps used by architects are Photoshop and Lightroom; these apps allow you to edit graphics, renderings, and photographs. The best part of working on a tablet is that they conveniently house all your documents so they’ll be available to you on the go.
Laser Measurer
Although 3D scanners are the ideal option to use for field verifications, they can be a costly investment. If a scanner isn’t in your budget, a laser measurer is a budget-friendly option. A laser measurer sends pulsing laser lights to predetermined targets and records accurate measurements. A laser measurer can help you to take longer measurements than a traditional tape measure. Furthermore, using a laser measurer requires less manpower than traditional methods of measurement. With a laser measurer, you can quickly and easily measure long distances such as the length from the top to the bottom of a staircase as well as floor-to-ceiling measurements.
A DSLR Camera
Another important tool every architect should have in their arsenal is a good digital camera. A DSLR camera allows you to accurately photograph in-progress projects, build environments, and beyond. Additionally, having good-quality digital photographs of architectural inspirations such as travel destinations and new architecture is integral to the architect’s design process. High-quality digital photographs are useful reference materials when designing, sketching, drafting, and building a model. Lastly, a good camera is a perfect tool for mapping the progress of your projects. From before and after pictures to virtual tours of completed projects, the advantages of having a DSLR camera are immeasurable.
A Blueprint Printer
If you’re looking to improve your arsenal of architecture tools, consider a plotter printer a0 size. These printers can print large-scale renderings, images, and beyond. These printers are certainly an investment in the future of your craft; they last for years, deliver high-performance, professional prints, and are compatible with a wide range of formats. Many of the top plotter printers feature cloud connectivity, are compatible with a variety of drafting software platforms, and have high-speed output. Many can batch print which is convenient if you’re working for a large firm, and many also can be printed remotely. Lastly, plotter printers can print in high resolution so that all of your renderings are printed with accuracy and reliability.
A Drafting Table
Another great tool an architect should consider is a good drafting table. There are many benefits to using a drafting table. For starters, a drafting table provides you with ample space to draft large-scale renderings. Moreover, they provide architects with the height and angles for optimal posture and alignment. Undoubtedly, long hours hunching over a traditional, flat table can induce back, shoulder, and neck discomfort. Good drafting tables are adjustable and have front-facing views allowing you to maintain good posture while working. Furthermore, drafting tables can be functional in other ways; many models offer storage solutions, built-in lighting, locking wheels, and shelves. Even if you do more of your drafting from a tablet than on paper, a drafting table is a comfortable place to prop your tablet as well.
Conclusion
Whether you’re in business for yourself or work for a large firm, there are some great tools available to ensure the success of all your projects, big and small. Outfit your business with the right tools for every architecture job. Consider some of the highly recommended architect faves listed here.
