Top 8 Plugins and Extensions for ArchiCAD

If you use ArchiCAD regularly, you know the base tools are powerful but have specific ceilings. The right plugins do not just add features; they remove the friction between a complex BIM model and the result you need to deliver.

Here is what actually makes a difference in a professional workflow.

1/ Visualization and Presentation

Enscape

A real-time rendering engine that lives directly inside the ArchiCAD interface as a toolbar.

Why it matters: It eliminates the export process entirely. You can walk through the model in real-time during design meetings, and changes made in ArchiCAD (moving a wall, changing a surface) update instantly in the Enscape window. It turns rendering into a design tool rather than just a presentation task.

Best for: Daily design iteration and instant client walkthroughs.

D5 Render

A GPU-based real-time renderer that connects via a LiveSync plugin for high-fidelity visualization.

Why it matters: It handles heavy scenes and lighting significantly better than older engines. The LiveSync plugin preserves your BIM data and hierarchy, but allows you to access a massive library of assets (vegetation, people, vehicles) that would otherwise slow down your ArchiCAD file.

Best for: High-end marketing visuals and atmospheric animations.

2/ Advanced Modeling and Geometry

Grasshopper - ArchiCAD Live Connection

A bi-directional link that allows Rhino/Grasshopper scripts to drive native ArchiCAD elements.

Why it matters: This is not just about making "weird shapes." It allows you to automate repetitive tasks, like placing shading devices based on sun angles or generating complex tile patterns, using native BIM elements (walls, slabs, beams) rather than dumb geometry.

Best for: Algorithmic design, complex facades, and automating repetitive modeling tasks.

ModelPort

An importer and editor that cleans up third-party 3D objects (OBJ, FBX, DAE) before they enter your project.

Why it matters: Importing manufacturer models usually bloats your file size and creates messy 2D floor plan symbols. ModelPort allows you to reduce polygon counts by up to 80% and clean up the 2D representation before the object ever touches your library, keeping your project lightweight.

Best for: Interior designers and architects who rely on specific manufacturer furniture or equipment.

3/ Documentation and Productivity

Ci Tools: Doors + Windows

A dedicated extension from Central Innovation that replaces the standard ArchiCAD door/window library.

Why it matters: The standard library often struggles with specific regional glazing styles or complex combinations. This tool offers granular control over sashes, glazing bars, and scheduling, allowing you to model exactly what will be built without fighting the software’s default limitations.

Best for: Detailed residential projects and custom glazing schedules.

Graphisoft Goodies Suite

A set of free legacy tools developed by Graphisoft (must be installed separately) that includes "Accessories" and "3D Studio In."

Why it matters: While older, the "Accessories" tool is still the fastest way to apply detailed claddings or roof tiling to basic slabs and roofs. It automates the detailing of standard elements without requiring manual modeling of every tile or panel.

Best for: Quick detailing of roofs and floor finishes.

4/ Coordination and Management

BIMcollab BCF Manager

An issue-tracking plugin that integrates cloud-based coordination directly into the ArchiCAD environment.

Why it matters: It replaces PDF markups and email chains. When a consultant flags a clash or issue, you receive it inside ArchiCAD as a BCF (BIM Collaboration Format) note. Clicking the issue automatically snaps your 3D camera to the exact location of the problem.

Best for: Large team projects and interdisciplinary coordination.

Solibri Connection

A live link that performs code checking and constructability analysis on your model.

Why it matters: Instead of exporting a massive IFC file to check for errors, this connection sends only the modified elements to Solibri for validation. It allows you to catch intersection errors or code violations while you are still in the design phase, not weeks later.

Best for: Quality assurance and BIM validation before issuing construction documents.

Choosing what fits your work

Not every plugin makes sense for every project. Match tools to your actual bottlenecks, not feature lists.

• If your file is slow: Look at ModelPort to clean up your imports.

• If your renders take too long: Look at Rendair, Enscape or D5.

• If your schedules are a mess: Look at Ci Tools.

Start with one that addresses your most frequent friction point.

What experienced teams learn early

• Plugins require maintenance. Always check compatibility before upgrading your main ArchiCAD version.

• Don't over-install. Too many active add-ons can slow down ArchiCAD's startup time.

• Native first. Only use a plugin if the native tool absolutely cannot do the job efficiently.

Bonus: Speed up rendering without leaving your workflow

If rendering is your bottleneck, Rendair handles visualization faster than most plugins can process.

Upload your ArchiCAD exports, and get presentation-ready renders in minutes. No new software to learn, no render farm setup, just clean results.

Start creating - Try it free