Landscape Architecture Software Key Terms

Terms to know when choosing landscape design software choices and features

By Kimberly Huber

Landscape architecture design software allows designers to show clients design presentations in a detailed and realistic format. With software that incorporates computer aided design, or CAD, features, and 2D and 3D images, clients can truly see what a design looks like. The image can be altered immediately to incorporate new client input and ideas.

When selecting the right landscape architecture design software, understanding the following terminology can help you distinguish between the types of design software available and the features to look for in the software you choose.

Computer aided design, or CAD

CAD is a term for using computer software to create any type of blueprint. Landscape architects use standard CAD software for 2D design blueprints.
Try: CADPro makes CAD software, and describes its features.

Building information modeling software, or BIM software

BIM software is a modeling software that allows landscape architects and other building designers to create a model before breaking ground.
Try: Autodesk offers more information on the many ways to use BIM software modeling.

3D software

This is software that creates 3D design presentations for a landscape designer to show clients. A key features to look for is picture upload, which uses photos of the existing structure or lawn, then alters the photo with a click to show clients how the new ideas will look when incorporated.
Try: Idea Spectrum offers comparisons of several 3D design softwares that are available for landscape architects and designers.

Deck and patio design software

Decks and patios are popular residential landscape design features. For designers focusing on residential landscaping, look for design software that incorporates deck and patio design options. This type of software can incorporate multi-level decks, all types of patios, and even present the design with specific materials and realistic presentations.
Try: Learn About Deck Design gives reviews of both deck and patio design software.

Regional plant software

This type of software allows landscape designers to incorporate information and photos of plants and trees that are specific to the region in which they work. Most types of regional plant software allows designers to upload their own photos and information to use in a design presentation.
Try: Gardensoft has presentation software to help designers find regional plants and photos for client presentations.

Rendering software

Rendering means creating images from computer models. By using special rendering software, a landscape architect can take a model or blueprint and create lifelike images in 2D or 3D to show clients. This is a useful tool for adding realistic textures and color, or adding light changes, shadowing and even animation to a landscape design.
Try: Mailmax Publishing offers a CAD education portal with information on various rendering software options.