Looking to start using Vectorworks?
Vectorworks offers several options, each designed to meet specific needs. Deciding which Vectorworks software is right for your design needs can be overwhelming, but understanding the key differences between each option will help you make the right decision.
Let’s explore the available options to see which Vectorworks software is right for you.
Vectorworks Fundamentals
For professionals just entering the design field, it can be tricky to determine which Vectorworks software offers the right balance of features and functionality. Vectorworks Fundamentals is an entry-level package providing drafting, modelling, and rendering tools. It offers a solid foundation for those who need design tools but don’t require industry-specific features.
Key Features:
- Comprehensive 2D and 3D modelling tools
- Basic rendering capabilities
- Customisable workspace
If your work doesn’t demand advanced industry-specific tools, Fundamentals provides a cost-effective solution that covers all the basics. It’s ideal for freelancers, hobbyists and designers working primarily with 2D or 3D models without requiring more advanced, specialised tools.
Vectorworks Architect
Vectorworks Architect is the go-to choice for architects, interior designers and anyone working on buildings. It builds on the Fundamentals package by adding tools specifically tailored for the architectural profession. These include building information modelling (BIM) capabilities, which allow for detailed construction documentation and data-rich designs.
Key Features:
- Full BIM capabilities
- Integrated energy analysis tools
- Support for collaborative workflows
- Specialised tools for placing walls, kitchen cabinets and more.
Vectorworks Architect is ideal if you need to create detailed plans, coordinate with consultants, or regularly work on built environment projects.
Vectorworks Landmark
Landscape designers and urban planners will find Vectorworks Landmark suited to their needs. This package includes tools for designing landscapes, outdoor spaces, and site planning, with specific features for irrigation, hardscape, and planting design.
Key Features:
- Site-specific tools, including terrain modelling
- Extensive plant database and landscape-specific libraries
- Tools for sustainable design, such as stormwater management
- GIS integration for accurate site planning
If your work involves extensive landscape design in private or public spaces, Landmark offers the tools to handle the job’s artistic and technical aspects.
Vectorworks Spotlight
Vectorworks Spotlight is designed for those in the entertainment industry. Whether you’re designing lighting for a theatre, planning a live event, designing exhibition stands or managing a concert stage, Spotlight provides the tools to bring your vision to life.
Key Features:
- Comprehensive lighting design and documentation tools
- Tools for rigging and event planning
- Integration with professional lighting consoles and devices
- 3D visualisation tools for accurate event pre-visualisation
For professionals involved in event planning, production, or lighting design, Spotlight offers specialised tools that streamline the entire process.
Vectorworks Design Suite
For those who need it all, Vectorworks Design Suite combines the features of Architect, Landmark, and Spotlight. It’s the all-in-one package for professionals working across multiple disciplines or who require a versatile toolset.
Key Features:
- Complete access to all industry-specific tools
- Unified interface for seamless switching between design tasks
- Ideal for multi-disciplinary firms or freelancers who work across various fields
Designer is the perfect choice if your work spans different design areas and you need the flexibility to switch between them without changing software.
Vectorworks Braceworks
Braceworks is an add-on module designed to work with Vectorworks Spotlight and Design Suite. It provides rigging design and analysis tools, ensuring safety and structural integrity in event designs.
Key Features:
- Comprehensive rigging analysis for safety
- Integration with Spotlight for seamless design-to-analysis workflow
- Complies with industry standards for structural analysis
If your projects involve complex rigging, Braceworks ensures that your designs are not only creative but also structurally sound.
So, Which Vectorworks Software is Right For You?
The right Vectorworks package depends on your specific needs. Selecting the corresponding package—Architect, Landmark, or Spotlight—will provide the most relevant tools if your work focuses on one particular industry. For those who need flexibility or work across multiple disciplines, Vectorworks Design Suite offers the most comprehensive solution.
If you’re still not sure, Vectorworks offer a free trial of Design Suite. Each package has it’s own workflow within Design Suite so you can easily switch between tools to see which works best for your design needs. Alternatively, our team is on hand to help you decide. Contact our customer service team and we can talk you through the options.