SketchUp for Architecture

Architectural visualization showing a modern building design created in SketchUp with detailed site modeling and realistic rendering

Course Overview

Our comprehensive SketchUp for Architecture course is specifically designed for architects, architectural students, and design professionals looking to master this powerful 3D modeling software for architectural applications.

Whether you're a beginner or looking to enhance your existing skills, this course provides a structured learning path to effectively integrate SketchUp into your architectural workflow.

What You'll Learn

  • Site modeling and terrain manipulation
  • Building design fundamentals in SketchUp
  • Advanced modeling techniques for complex structures
  • Construction documentation workflows
  • Presentation techniques for client meetings
  • Integration with other architectural software

Course Benefits

  • Accelerate your design process
  • Create more accurate architectural models
  • Improve client communication with better visualizations
  • Streamline documentation production
  • Enhance collaboration with team members
  • Build a professional portfolio of work

Course Modules

Module 1: SketchUp Fundamentals for Architects

Master the essential tools and techniques specific to architectural modeling. Learn efficient navigation, precision modeling methods, and organization strategies tailored to architectural projects.

Screenshot of SketchUp interface showing basic architectural modeling tools and a simple building structure being created

Module 2: Site Modeling & Context

Learn to create accurate site models using topographic data, import GIS information, and model site context. Master techniques for terrain manipulation, vegetation placement, and integrating buildings with their surroundings.

Topographic site model in SketchUp showing terrain contours, vegetation, and building placement within an urban context

Module 3: Building Design & Development

Develop architectural concepts into detailed building models. Focus on efficient modeling techniques for walls, floors, roofs, and structural elements while maintaining an organized model hierarchy.

Exploded axonometric view of a building model in SketchUp showing structural layers, floor plates, and wall systems

Module 4: Construction Documentation

Transform your 3D models into comprehensive construction documents. Learn to generate plans, sections, elevations, and details directly from your SketchUp model while maintaining accuracy and consistency.

Construction documentation layout showing floor plans, sections, and details extracted from a SketchUp model with dimensions and annotations

Module 5: Visualization & Presentation

Master advanced rendering and presentation techniques to communicate your designs effectively. Learn to create compelling visualizations, animations, and interactive presentations for client meetings and design reviews.

Photorealistic rendering of an architectural project created in SketchUp and enhanced with rendering plugins showing materials, lighting, and environmental context

Course Projects

Throughout the course, you'll work on practical architectural projects that reinforce your learning:

Modern residential house model created in SketchUp showing detailed interior and exterior elements
Residential Design

Design a single-family residence from concept to construction documentation.

Commercial building model in SketchUp showing facade details, interior spaces, and site context
Commercial Space

Develop a small commercial building with focus on site integration and interior layouts.

Urban design project in SketchUp showing multiple buildings, public spaces, and infrastructure elements
Urban Intervention

Create an urban design proposal with multiple buildings and public spaces.

Technical Requirements

Recommended System Specifications

  • Windows 10/11 or macOS 10.14 or newer
  • Multi-core processor (Intel i5/i7 or AMD equivalent)
  • 16GB RAM minimum (32GB recommended for complex projects)
  • Dedicated graphics card with 4GB+ VRAM
  • SketchUp Pro (latest version)
  • Three-button mouse highly recommended

Instructor Expertise

Professional headshot of course instructor, an experienced architect and SketchUp expert with 15+ years of experience

Our course is taught by practicing architects with extensive experience in both architectural design and SketchUp implementation. With backgrounds in residential, commercial, and institutional projects, our instructors bring real-world expertise to help you apply SketchUp effectively in professional practice.

All instructors are certified SketchUp professionals who have successfully integrated the software into architectural workflows at leading design firms.

Ready to Transform Your Architectural Practice with SketchUp?

This comprehensive course will equip you with the skills to leverage SketchUp throughout the entire architectural design process—from initial concept to final presentation.