Graphisoft launches EcoDesigner STAR Public Beta

Graphisoft of Hungary has launched a public beta of its recently announced EcoDesigner STAR BIM energy program. This is being touted as the first software that places standard-compliant energy analysis in the heart of the architect’s familiar BIM work environment. With Graphisoft EcoDesigner STAR, architects are able to design the most energy-efficient buildings without having to rely on input from engineers or specialist consultants.

Architects Are Taking Responsibility for Building Performance

Graphisoft–long recognized as being an ‘architect’s CAD software company’ and especially architecture-office centric in its thinking–has recognized the importance that architects need to play the lead in sustainable design.

“Architects are taking more and more responsibility for the energy performance of their designs,” said Laszlo Vertesi, Vice President of Development at Graphisoft. “EcoDesigner STAR offers energy evaluation based on standard compliant technology, right out of the box, throughout the entire design process.”

01 - Graphisoft's new EcoDesigner STAR is an industry first.

Built directly on ArchiCAD 16’s native Energy Evaluation infrastructure, EcoDesigner STAR enables architects to use ArchiCAD’s building information model (BM). This ensures streamlined collaboration between designers and energy consultants.

Furthermore, EcoDesigner STAR offers standard-compliant energy analysis on the BEM (building energy modeling) and produces a detailed building performance report, all within the familiar ArchiCAD design environment.

Architosh Analysis

Graphisoft has terminated its original stand-alone EcoDesigner product and with version 16 ArchiCAD has had a built-in Energy Evaluation functionality that is based on all new technology. (zone-boundary based building model geometry analysis with hour-by-hour real weather data input options). This new STAR version will further place sustainable design issues at the forefront of architecture offices’ design thinking while possibly providing incentives for architects to embrace and promote energy-efficient structures.