Church Building Design Software

[Mustangnaz]

I know that some people use open source Blender, but I think it has quite a learning curve. There is even a site dedicated to "Blender for Architecture."

[trooper753]

Does anyone know what the best software is to design in odd shaped building? Our Messianic Jewish congregation is wanting to design and build a synagogue in the shape of a star of david. I have it done on paper- just want to see it on something neater.
I used to take drafting and beginning architecture classes years ago. So I would liek to do as much as I can on my own.

[Brad Weber]

Originally Posted by trooper753

Does anyone know what the best software is to design in odd shaped building? Our Messianic Jewish congregation is wanting to design and build a synagogue in the shape of a star of david. I have it done on paper- just want to see it on something neater.
I used to take drafting and beginning architecture classes years ago. So I would liek to do as much as I can on my own.

I would think that much of the same comments and recommendations already offered apply.

I don't know if any or all of these might apply, but some comments based on past experience:

Unusual building shapes can be quite interesting and dramatic, but they can also often be difficult and expensive to implement, especially in regards to structural considerations. I have been involved in several projects that invested a lot of time and effort in developing designs for buildings with specific shapes only to abandon them once any costing was performed. So unless this is a 'cost os no oblect' element to the project, you might want to consider assessing the cost implications of the shape as early as possible.

You are almost certain to have to involve a professional Architect and Engineers at some point to prepare and stamp documents and they likely will be starting over as they can't assume liability for someone else's work. So the software you use being directly compatible with theirs may not be a factor. On the other hand, the more the Synagogue can do to define and prioritize the project requirements and their desires, the more effective those professionals can be.

Sometimes it is better to initially focus more on the generalities than the specifics. Don't get caught up going into great detail on some areas if that may have to change or negatively impacts other areas. One of my biggest pet peeves is renderings. While I recognize the benefit of pretty renderings early in a project in developing support and funding for the project, they also establish expectations. The Star of David floor plan or beautiful stained glass windows or soaring roof line become much more difficult to consider as cost savings options to change later once people have already 'bought into' them, they are much easier to consider as possible cost reduction options when they were never really there. Too many times, avoiding the potential disappointment when the final result differs from the pretty renderings made before and cost estimating and budget verification was done leads to cutting back in other areas, possibly to the detriment of the overall functionality.

[shayward]

If you want to create a nicer mock-up (but then later go to a professional architect, as would be wise) then I'd still vote for Google Sketchup.

In the shape of a Star of David, eh? That is exceptionally cool! We have a Messianic Jewish Pastor coming to speak at the service this Sunday. I've seen him about 3 or 4 times and every time he gives simply amazing teaching. I've read two of his 3 books. All excellent.