Flat Designs Aren’t Enough: Why 2D Needs a Third Dimension in Today’s Collaborative Architecture

From ink drawings on tracing paper to highly detailed 3D digital models, the role of the architect has evolved and next-generation design software is empowering today’s architects with valuable data and design flexibility. In the past, the work was meticulous and required great manual effort, with each line and detail drawn by hand using rulers and other tools. Over time, programs like Revit revolutionized the area by allowing the creation of precise and digitally organized drawings, simplifying edits and component replication.

Architects still faced significant inefficiencies, particularly when making a single change that required updates to multiple drawings. For example, adjusting the height of a step by just 1 centimeter would mean modifying countless lines, hatches, and details across all relevant sections, elevations, and floor plans. This process was not only time consuming, but also increased the risk of errors, complicating workflows and project coordination. Although the shift from paper to digital drawing offered advantages, it maintained many of the limitations of two-dimensional representation. Projects continued to rely heavily on plan views, with complete spatial understanding often requiring a level of interpretation that was difficult for clients and stakeholders to understand.

BIM and beyond: how 3D tools are transforming architectural practice

With the arrival of 3D modeling tools and, more recently, Building Information Modeling (BIM), design practice has gained a new dimension – literally. It became possible to not only visualize the space in a more realistic and complete way, but also integrate crucial information about materials, costs and performance directly into the model, transforming both the creative process and construction management. In fact, BIM software has transformed the design landscape by addressing many of these limitations. By creating a comprehensive 3D model that automatically generates 2D and 3D drawings, BIM has simplified workflows, reduced errors, and made design changes instantaneous in every view. It also integrated valuable project data, such as material costs and performance, directly into the design, offering a more holistic approach to architecture.

It is important to emphasize that 2D and 3D are not competitors, but rather allies in the design process. 2D stands out for its simplicity and speed, making it ideal for initial sketches of plans and structures, as well as facilitating the production and sharing of ideas between professionals and clients. As projects gain complexity, with intricate facades and irregular shapes, 3D offers the necessary precision and clarity, providing a more detailed and realistic spatial vision. Together, they create an integrated approach that optimizes communication, speeds up iterations, and ensures more informed decisions throughout project development.