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Topic starter
20/03/2025 12:55 pm
I've hit a crossroads with my software choices and need some advice. I recently started my own boutique architectural practice (just me and one junior designer) primarily handling residential and small commercial projects. We're struggling with software workflow efficiency.
I've been a longtime SketchUp user for concept design, but as our projects have become more complex, the files are getting massive (2-3GB) and running painfully slow, especially when clients request ornate details and custom fixtures. I experimented with Rhino for a recent project and was impressed with the speed and clean modeling environment.
My concerns: Rhino seems to lack the extensive plugin ecosystem SketchUp has for things like railings, stairs, and windows. Plus, finding ready-to-use assets for Rhino is challenging - I spend hours re-texturing imported models. But SketchUp's performance issues are costing us valuable time.
For those using either or both professionally: which do you recommend for a small practice like mine, and how do you handle the limitations of each? Is there a workable hybrid approach? Appreciate any insights from real-world experience!
24/03/2025 5:14 pm
These are completely different tools designed for different purposes. I know that might not be helpful to hear, but it's the truth.
SketchUp is great for quick conceptual work and visualization, and yes, it has a ton of plugins, but as you've discovered, it struggles with complex projects. The file sizes become unmanageable because the software wasn't really designed to handle highly detailed models.
Rhino excels with NURBS modeling, complex geometry, and maintains performance with larger projects. The learning curve is steeper, but the payoff is significant once you're proficient.
If your work involves a lot of organic shapes or complex geometry, Rhino would be my recommendation. If you're primarily doing conventional residential architecture with straight walls and standard elements, you might want to consider a hybrid approach - use SketchUp for early design phases, then transition to a more robust platform.
Have you considered incorporating Revit into your workflow? It's industry standard for a reason, especially if your firm is growing.
Alfredchaiz reacted
26/03/2025 2:57 pm
I use SketchUp for all my presentation work and export linework to CAD for construction docs. Makes for really clean elevations - just overlay the CAD line work on rendered views, then add dimensions and notes. Works like a charm for small to medium projects.
08/04/2025 7:51 pm
Why not just keep using both? They complement each other nicely. My workflow: Rhino for the core modeling where speed and precision matter, SketchUp when I need to quickly test ideas or work with clients in real-time.
The real question you should be asking is whether you need a dedicated documentation platform like Revit or ArchiCAD for your construction documents. That's where most small firms struggle with efficiency.
Topic starter
17/04/2025 11:05 am
Thanks for the suggestions! We're actually planning to implement Revit soon, just haven't made the full transition yet. I've found that Rhino works much better with Revit for data exchange compared to the SketchUp/CAD workflow we've been using. The main challenge is that many of our clients come with specific design references (usually from Pinterest) that require matching exact styles and details, which is where SketchUp's extensive asset library has been helpful.
Do any of you use Rhino for interior design visualization? That's where I'm finding the biggest friction in making the switch.