SketchUp Free
Trimble
The most intuitive 3D modelling tool for beginners — web-based and completely free. You can produce a basic building model within an hour of first opening it. The standard entry point for architectural 3D modelling.
More resources on Architectural Software
V-Ray by Chaos
The quality benchmark for architectural rendering — photorealistic static renders used in high-end architectural visualisation. ~£450/year.
Twinmotion
Real-time rendering and immersive 3D visualisation for architecture — free for educational use. Built on Unreal Engine, producing high-quality real-time walkthroughs.
Lumion
Real-time 3D architectural visualisation software — the most widely used for client presentations. Produces photorealistic renderings and animations from BIM/CAD models. ~£1,500/year.
Enscape
Real-time rendering and virtual reality for architectural visualisation, integrated directly with Revit, SketchUp, Rhino, and ArchiCAD. ~£350/year.
ArchiCAD by Graphisoft
The principal BIM alternative to Revit — particularly strong in continental Europe and valued for its more intuitive modelling approach. ~£150/month or ~£5,500 perpetual; free for students.
Grasshopper (for Rhino)
Visual programming interface for algorithmic and parametric design within Rhino — allows generative architecture without writing code. The standard tool for computational design in architectural practice.