, designed to streamline architectural workflows by automating complex modeling and documentation tasks. Originally developed by Cadimage Group in New Zealand, the suite is currently managed and developed by Central Innovation Core Tools and Functions
Cadimage Tools provide pragmatic enhancements to Archicad that can materially improve documentation speed and consistency. They are best adopted with governance—controlled libraries, training, and version policies—to mitigate dependency and compatibility risks. Firms seeking incremental productivity gains in repetitive documentation tasks should evaluate Cadimage via a targeted pilot.
Switch effortlessly between realistic 3D presentations and clean 2D elevations optimized for cabinetmakers. 3. Cadimage Objective cadimage tools
Because Cadimage elements are fully parametric and deeply integrated with Archicad, they minimize coordination errors. If you move a wall, the attached coverings, windows, and electrical outlets update automatically, keeping your documentation accurate. Highly Professional Documentation
The most common criticisms revolve around the update cycle and UI changes . A significant number of users express frustration that with each new Archicad version, Cadimage tools get a completely redesigned interface, making it a "constant battle staying up to date and dealing with a new set of bugs every year" . Users have complained that the documentation fails to keep pace with these radical overhauls, leaving them to hunt for relocated features and find that some functionalities (like mitered joints for deck boards) have disappeared . Note: As of recent years
Ci Tools operates on a flexible subscription model, making it accessible for practices of all sizes. As of the latest information, there are three subscription-based packages:
Automatic calculation of materials for accurate cost estimation. 4. Cadimage Stairs and materials in real-time.
Cadimage is a suite of specialized, native ArchiCAD add-ons designed to fill the functional gaps left by the out-of-the-box software. Developed by a team of architects for architects, Cadimage does not operate as a standalone program but rather integrates seamlessly into the ArchiCAD environment, acting as a powerful extension of the native toolbox.
The Cadimage suite is modular, allowing firms to purchase only the tools they need. The most impactful modules include:
Configure cabinet sizes, door styles, handles, and materials in real-time.
Note: As of recent years, Cadimage Tools have been rebranded and integrated into the ecosystem. While the tools are still widely referred to as "Cadimage," you will often find them under the "CI Tools" or "Central Innovation" label within modern ARCHICAD/Graphisoft interfaces.