Align and Distribute are nothing new and I’m sure these commands are rarely (if ever) on anyone’s Top 10 Most Important ArchiCAD Features list. They were added to ArchiCAD back in 2008 with the release of ArchiCAD 12, which means-for anyone who skipped that version or started after ArchiCAD 12-these handy little commands might be overlooked. Align and Distribute, after all, aren’t glamorous and don’t scream BIM.

But…as we all endlessly explain the value of ArchiCAD and BIM to the rest of the world, it is important to remember the value of speed enhancements. To reach the full potential of BIM, not only do our tools need to get better, our relationship to them also needs to become invisible. So much of the subtly behind great architecture is the various alignments (and misalignments) of various elements. Anything that automates, enhances, or makes seamless the ability to create, recreate, and test alignments of elements is therefor wonderful. Thus it’s pretty easy to argue that there’s a direct line of value from simple command to advanced tool to improved design and client value.

ArchiCAD Basics: Align and Distribute

Notes:

1. Anything shown in this video can be done with any combination of elements-2D or 3D.
2. Anything shown in this video can be done in any view-plan, section, elevation, 2D window, 3D window, Layout, etc.
3. There are other ways to align elements, like the Adjust command, but those are for another post or video.
4. For a little more, check out Align and Distribute on the Graphisoft Help Center.
5. I’m using the Shoegnome Open Template in the video. If you haven’t already downloaded it, please do.

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