Computer Aided Design and Drafting in Landscape Architecture

Computer Aided Design (CAD) software in landscape architecture have revolutionized landscaping and provide options for computer-generated documentation output which has greatly improved design and drafting. The use of computer aided design software in landscape industry is gradually replacing manual drafting and hand drawings. The software that are commonly used includes AutoCAD, Revit, Sketchup, Pro Landscape, SmartDraw, Realtime Landscaping Pro among many others. AutoCAD and SmartDraw can be used for 2D drafting and designing with huge library of objects available to enhance the drawing. Revit, SketchUp, Pro Landscape and Landscaping Pro offers great platform for 3D modelling to present visualization of the designs. Through these software, designers can work at a faster rate and produces a better quality design thereby increasing productivity. The computer aided modelling in landscape architecture also brought infinite possibilities and creativity that a landscape architect can explore. This paper aims to review the most commonly used CAD software available, their functionality and application in landscape architecture.