Archicad
Jared is one of the world’s leading experts in Archicad, and dedicated to helping other architects work in a smarter, more efficient manner. The Shoegnome Open Template for Archicad, the Shoegnome Work Environment for Archicad, and Jared’s Archicad Tutorial videos on YouTube are all used daily by thousands of people worldwide.
BIM, and specifically Archicad, is key to providing the best service I can to my clients. What is BIM (Building Information Modeling)? There’s many answers, but this article will give you a simple art historical context. Highly detailed, data rich 3D models built in Archicad are essential to my design process. Archicad models allow me to communicate the experience and feel of the yet built projects. My clients don’t have to read floor plans to understand their new homes. Instead we can virtually inhabit the spaces. With access to BIMx models on their phones, they can explore their houses at their leisure and share their homes with friends and family. Beyond the benefits to client communication, Archicad affords me the opportunity to work with stakeholders like the structural engineer and contractor to more deeply understand the details prior to construction. While coordination issues—especially on remodels—will never be completely eradicated, we are typically able to drastically reduce surprises and increase preparedness for what awaits us during construction.
I first used Archicad in 2006. That same year I started teaching other people how to use the software. Initially it was just coworkers, but I soon began running a local user group for other architects and designers. In 2010 I founded Shoegnome, LLC and turned my focus to helping Archicad users world wide.
Training and Support
If you are a design professional that uses Archicad (or are thinking about using Archicad), you need to download the Shoegnome Open Template for Archicad. Monetary support is optional (though greatly appreciated). Good ideas that help us provide better value to our clients should be shared, not hoarded.
When time allows, I offer Archicad training and technical support via video chat or under the proper circumstances in person. I don’t do template customization. If I am too busy to help, I’ll do my best to connect you with someone who would be a better fit. I know lots of freelancers, gurus, teachers, trainers, template developers, and other Archicad pros who are highly capable, but less visible than me.
Other Services
Need help on a project, and don’t quite have the expertise or capacity you need? I love teaming up with other Archicad using firms, though I rarely have the time anymore. I know the Archicad community in the USA and beyond. And the community knows me. If you need a freelancer, I’ll help you find the right user for your firm. If you need to hire full time staff with Archicad skills, I know where to look and who to ask. If you are a freelancer or looking for a new position, send me an email and say hello.
I also maintain a mailing list for Archicad users in the Seattle Area (primarily to promote local Archicad events). Sign up by clicking here.
