Cadimage Tools [top] -

Cadimage Tools (now often branded as ) are a popular suite of add-ons for

designed to streamline complex architectural modeling and documentation tasks. User reviews generally highlight that these tools significantly improve speed and precision compared to native Archicad features, though they come with a learning curve and a subscription cost. Graphisoft Community Key Tool Reviews & Highlights Based on user feedback from the Graphisoft Community

and professional blogs, here is how the specific tools are rated: Stair Tool

: Often cited as a "must-have" for older versions of Archicad. Users found native stairs difficult to manipulate, while the Cadimage version was described as both more powerful and simpler to use for complex designs. Coverings Tool

: Highly praised for adding realistic wall cladding, roofing, and textures that are difficult to achieve natively. One reviewer noted it has "a lot of depth," meaning it can be complex to master, but yields superior 3D and section results. Keynotes Tool : Users on professional forums

have labeled this as one of the best solutions for automated documentation, successfully linking specification notes directly to model elements. Doors & Windows

: Offers much greater flexibility for custom joinery than the standard library, though some users have reported occasional missing library part errors during software updates. Graphisoft Community Pros and Cons Increased Efficiency

: Drastically reduces clicks for repetitive tasks like roofing or trim. Subscription Model

: Requires ongoing payment; if you unsubscribe, you can still view geometry but cannot edit it. High Customization

: Allows for much finer control over object parameters and UI than native Archicad. Update Delays cadimage tools

: Users have noted frustrations when tools aren't immediately ready for the newest Archicad release. Professional Documentation

: Automates keynoting and scheduling, reducing manual errors. Complexity

: Some tools have deep nested menus that take time to learn. Support & Reliability The tools are now managed under Central Innovation (Ci)

Report: Cadimage Tools for Archicad (April 2026) Cadimage Tools (now often referred to as Ci Tools by Central Innovation) are a suite of professional add-ons designed to extend the core functionality of Archicad [21, 24]. These tools automate repetitive tasks, improve 3D modeling precision, and streamline documentation for architects and designers [24, 26]. Core Productivity Tools

The suite consists of several modules targeting specific architectural elements:

Doors + Windows: Offers advanced customization for openings beyond standard Archicad libraries, allowing users to design complex configurations easily [21, 29].

Keynotes: Automates the annotation process by linking a database of notes directly to model elements, reducing manual entry errors [21, 33].

Cabinets: Provides flexible tools for designing custom cabinetry and kitchen layouts with high accuracy [21, 36].

Coverings: Applies detailed 2D or 3D claddings to walls, slabs, and roofs, including automated generation of gutters and down-pipes [21, 30]. Cadimage Tools (now often branded as ) are

Objective: Allows for the manipulation of objects in 3D, including bending, cutting, and extruding elements that are typically rigid in the base software [21].

Electrical: Simplifies the placement of electrical symbols and automatically generates linked circuits and schedules [17, 21]. Functional & Documentation Add-ons

Quantities: Calculates and exports Bills of Quantities directly from the live project model [21].

Transformer: Enables a one-click solution for mirroring an entire project, which is useful for "handed" building designs [21].

Metadata: A palette for managing properties and classifications in one centralized location [21].

Annotate: Includes features like quick text-case changing without retyping [21]. Implementation & Support

Compatibility: Cadimage tools are version-specific; for instance, Cadimage 2025 is required for Archicad 2025.

Installation: To install, users typically download a Library Pack and copy the files into the Archicad "Add-Ons" and "Library Packages" folders while the software is closed [28].

Resources: Users can access a 30-day free trial, extensive Knowledge Base, and premium support through Central Innovation [13, 32]. Pricing Structure Smart Placement: Place a keynote once; if the

Licensing often includes tiered discounts to reward multi-product adoption:

Multi-license: Buying a second license can trigger a 20% discount, scaling up to 60% for 10+ licenses [12].

Bundles: Purchasing five or more different tools (e.g., combining Stairs, Cabinets, and Doors) typically grants a 20% bundle discount [12].

Upgrades: Software upgrades are generally fixed at approximately 20% of the suggested retail price [12]. Introduction to the Cadimage Objective Tool

3. The "Live" Workflow

A defining feature of Cadimage Tools is their parametric nature. They are not static blocks; they are "live" objects.

If an architect moves a wall that contains a Cadimage Door, the door moves with it. If the floor level changes, the Cadimage Stair automatically recalculates the riser heights to maintain compliance. This ensures that the "I" in BIM (Information) remains intact, reducing the risk of coordination errors during construction.

Core Functionality: What Do Cadimage Tools Do?

The Cadimage suite is modular, allowing firms to purchase only the tools they need. The most impactful modules include:

A. Keynotes

The Problem: ARCHICAD has a native Label tool, but it is not intelligent. If you change a wall type, the label doesn't update automatically. The Solution: Cadimage Keynotes automates the annotation process.

Cadimage Tools: Complete User Guide

4. The Kitchen & Joinery Toolkit

For residential architects, joinery takes up 50% of the drawing time. Cadimage Tools offers a dedicated kitchen suite: