Thank you to everyone who participated in AIBD’s 2026 Architectural Software Survey. This year, 165 designers told us which software they use primarily in their day-to-day work, along with the supporting tools that round out their workflow. While participation was lower than in our 2023 survey, the results still offer a useful snapshot of the software used across our community. The 2026 Results Chief Architect was the most frequently selected primary platform, followed by SoftPlan, Revit, and...
1 day ago • 1 min read
Need CAD, 3D or Rendering Support? Building designers often need additional production support—whether it’s CAD drafting, 3D modeling, rendering, or documentation—but finding someone with the right technical skills, software experience, and availability can take time. That’s why I created interiAssist, a specialized platform connecting building and design professionals with Design Support Professionals offering CAD drafting, 3D modeling, rendering, documentation, and related production...
3 days ago • 2 min read
Hello Reader, Congrats on surviving Monday and crushing Tuesday. Now, Wednesday beckons you to take a break and step into a pattern of discovery. Welcome to the Midweek Meander. Did someone forward this to you? Please consider subscribing. In the 1970s, when designer clothing was becoming more accessible and a measure of status, a popular myth circulated that more stripes hidden deep inside a man's designer tie meant higher quality or a more expensive tie. The stiff structural fabric called...
4 days ago • 7 min read
Email from ProVia ProVia Manufactured Stone Versatile Stone Veneer Partner with ProVia for premium-quality, CMHA-certified MSV. Our stone veneer is a versatile building block for residential and commercial construction – ideal as an exterior cladding or hardscape component, and for indoor fireplaces and interior accent walls. Handcrafted molds are made from casts of organic quarried stone, for authentic texture Each stone has a flat back for easier installation 12 stone profiles and 9 earthy...
6 days ago • 3 min read
Welcome to the first edition of This Week in the AIBD Community! Each week, we’ll highlight conversations you might have missed and invite you to bring your own experience to the discussion. You don’t need a polished answer or a big announcement to participate. A question, a recommendation, or a quick “here’s what worked for me” is a great place to start. Find a conversation and jump in What belongs on a designer’s bookshelf? Architectural mysteries, design principles, and books that change...
9 days ago • 1 min read
What makes a house feel haunting—or like home? Architecture can create comfort, calm, drama, or delight. Tomorrow, join Bernie to explore that emotional side of design—with a little October spirit. Grab your coffee or favorite morning drink for Coffee With Bernie: The Best Architectural Haunted Houses in America. We’ll take a short virtual tour of haunted houses and scenic environments, exploring how scenic architecture—like the craft behind movie sets—influences the way we design for...
10 days ago • 1 min read
Hello Reader, Congrats on surviving Monday and crushing Tuesday. Now, Wednesday beckons you to take a break and step into a pattern of discovery. Welcome to the Midweek Meander. Did someone forward this to you? Please consider subscribing. “I had an idea for a little further out. October is National Book Month. Asher Benjamin’s The Country Builder’s Assistant.” ~ Roberta D'Andrea That was all it took to send me meandering. You may know Asher Benjamin’s The Country Builder’s Assistant as an...
11 days ago • 7 min read
There isn’t just one path to becoming a professional building designer. Some enter the profession through school. Others learn through years of practical experience. Many do both. But that creates an interesting question: How do you demonstrate what you’ve learned? The Certified Professional Building Designer® (CPBD™) certification exists to provide building design professionals with a credential that demonstrates professional knowledge and experience. CPBD certification addresses the...
12 days ago • 1 min read
October 5, 2026, Edition #CreatingWherePeopleLive This weekly newsletter is created by and for those designing homes in North America. Its editorial staff is the American Institute of Building Design, Inc., the premier association of residential design professionals. Here's what you get: Field Notes Nuts & Bolts Highlights Workshops & Gatherings What We're Up To Amazing sponsors who help keep this newsletter free for the industry. Let's dive in. Email servers may truncate this newsletter...
13 days ago • 5 min read
