S01E14* - Archicad Template File

We have recently upgraded our Archicad software in the office and I spent the day updating the office's Archicad template file. The office template file helps to reduce wasted time and aims to eliminate any inconsistencies when working on a new project by reducing the need to do repetitive tasks. The more projects I work on the more time is saved using a current and accurate template file that is specific for the type of work we do.

Key template data

•         Drawings and Story Settings

•         Company Title blocks and Layouts (North Points/Scale Bar)

•         Section and Elevation markers

•         Layers

•         Layer Combinations

•         Pen Settings

•         Line Types

•         Fill Types

•         Composite Structures

•         Profiles and Work Environment settings

•         Surfaces

•         Schedules

•         Model View Options

•         Objects

•         Accessibility doors with minimal Clearance standards

•         Palettes and toolbars

Having a standardised template file in an office environment improves the efficiency of staff while also ensuring that each project is identical in the final output. See below steps to create a customised template using Archicad

To create a customized template

1.            Open a new empty project file.

2.            Edit your project preferences, set up the project structure and/or place elements.

3.            Save this project file as a template: use File > Save as, and choose “ArchiCAD            Project Template (*.tpl)” as the file type.

These files are saved to the “Templates” folder, located here:

On PC: Documents and Settings\user\Graphisoft\ArchiCAD Templates.

On MacOS: Library\Application Support\Graphisoft\ArchiCAD Templates.

To open a template

1.            Choose the File > New command

2.            Select the Use a Template option

3.            Select the desired template file.

When starting a new project based on a template, you are in fact opening a copy of this template file as “Untitled.”

Note: Settings of the Work Environment Profile used to open your project will override Template file settings.

All this information on creating a Template your own template files can be found on the Archicad Website - http://helpcenter.graphisoft.com/tips/template-files/

I hope you Enjoy.

The Architect of Tomorrow..