Modelur
Modelur is a parametric urban design software that integrates directly with SketchUp to provide real-time calculation of key urban indicators like floor area ratio and required parking spaces.
Vectorworks Architect
Vectorworks Architect is a versatile BIM software providing a comprehensive suite of design, 3D modeling, and documentation tools specifically created for architects to manage entire project lifecycles within a single interface.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Modelur | Vectorworks Architect |
|---|---|---|
| Website | modelur.com | vectorworks.net |
| Pricing Model | Subscription | Subscription |
| Starting Price | $49/month | $153/month |
| FREE Trial | ✓ 14 days free trial | ✓ 7 days free trial |
| Free Plan | ✘ No free plan | ✘ No free plan |
| Product Demo | ✓ Request demo here | ✓ Request demo here |
| Deployment | ||
| Integrations | ||
| Target Users | ||
| Target Industries | ||
| Customer Count | 0 | 0 |
| Founded Year | 2012 | 1985 |
| Headquarters | Ljubljana, Slovenia | Columbia, USA |
Overview
Modelur
Modelur is a specialized parametric tool designed to streamline your urban planning and design workflows within SketchUp. Instead of manually calculating complex zoning numbers, you can create 3D building masses that automatically update their data as you scale or move them. It helps you stay compliant with local regulations by providing instant feedback on land use, building heights, and density requirements.
You can quickly generate multiple design iterations and compare their financial or environmental impacts through live data syncing. This eliminates the need for tedious spreadsheets and manual area tracking, allowing you to focus on the creative aspects of city planning. Whether you are designing a small neighborhood or a large-scale master plan, it ensures your 3D models remain data-rich and technically accurate throughout the entire design process.
Vectorworks Architect
Vectorworks Architect gives you a flexible design environment where you can move freely from 2D sketching to complex 3D modeling. Unlike rigid BIM tools, it allows you to maintain your creative process while automatically generating data-rich models and construction documents. You can handle every phase of a project—from initial concept and site analysis to detailed construction drawings—without switching between different software applications.
The platform is built for architectural firms of all sizes, offering specialized tools for landscape integration, interior design, and energy analysis. You can collaborate easily with consultants using industry-standard file formats and integrated cloud services. It solves the problem of fragmented workflows by keeping your geometry and data synchronized, ensuring your schedules and elevations stay accurate as your design evolves.
Overview
Modelur Features
- Parametric Building Blocks Create and modify building masses that automatically adjust their floor counts and areas based on your specific design parameters.
- Real-time Indicators Monitor key metrics like Floor Area Ratio (FAR), site coverage, and total gross floor area instantly as you edit your model.
- Zoning Compliance Alerts Set specific land-use constraints and receive immediate visual warnings if your design exceeds local height or density limits.
- Parking Requirement Calculator Automatically calculate the number of required parking spaces based on your building's programmed use and total floor area.
- GIS Data Import Import existing city data and terrain directly into your workspace to ensure your project sits accurately within its real-world context.
- Live Sync to Excel Export your model data to Excel with a single click to generate detailed reports for stakeholders and city officials.
Vectorworks Architect Features
- Hybrid 2D/3D Environment. Design in 3D and see your 2D plans update automatically, ensuring your documentation always matches your model.
- Advanced BIM Capabilities. Attach detailed data to your architectural objects to generate accurate schedules, material takeoffs, and energy reports instantly.
- Direct Surface Modeling. Create complex, organic shapes with ease using subdivision modeling and Parasolid-based tools that go beyond standard architectural geometry.
- Integrated Site Design. Analyze terrain and create site models directly within your project to see how your building interacts with its environment.
- Cineware Rendering. Produce high-quality, photorealistic visualizations and walkthroughs for client presentations without needing expensive third-party rendering plugins.
- Project Sharing. Enable your entire team to work on the same project file simultaneously with flexible administrative controls and cloud syncing.
Pricing Comparison
Modelur Pricing
- Full parametric modeling
- Real-time urban indicators
- Zoning compliance checks
- Excel data export
- Standard email support
- Everything in Personal, plus:
- Priority technical support
- Floating license options
- Advanced GIS integration
- Team collaboration tools
Vectorworks Architect Pricing
- Full access to Architect features
- Vectorworks Cloud Services
- Standard technical support
- Integrated rendering tools
- BIM and documentation suite
- Everything in Monthly, plus:
- Lower effective monthly rate
- Predictable annual billing
- Full version upgrades included
- Priority access to new releases
Pros & Cons
Modelur
Pros
- Significant time savings on manual area calculations
- Seamless integration with existing SketchUp workflows
- Easy to learn for current 3D modelers
- Highly accurate data for preliminary site studies
- Responsive support team for technical issues
Cons
- Requires a separate SketchUp license to operate
- Limited functionality outside of urban massing
- Performance can slow down with massive city models
Vectorworks Architect
Pros
- Superior 2D drafting and presentation graphics
- Excellent flexibility for non-standard creative designs
- All-in-one solution reduces need for extra plugins
- Strong compatibility with various industry file formats
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced BIM features
- High hardware requirements for smooth 3D performance
- Occasional stability issues with very large files