Archicad

The asset collections from A23D integrate with Graphisoft Archicad for BIM-based architectural design and visualization workflows. Select Archicad in the A23D Software dropdown and A23D delivers an FBX package with embedded material data. Archicad can open, merge, drag-and-drop, or import FBX files as GDL Objects, which makes FBX the right delivery path for A23D 3D models in Archicad. Archicad's Surfaces system supports image texture channels such as color, normal/bump, reflectance, alpha, luminance, and displacement, but exact PBR fidelity depends on the selected engine or live-link renderer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about using A23D assets with Archicad

Do I need a plugin to use A23D assets in Archicad?

No A23D plugin is required. Use Archicad's native FBX import tools and the Surfaces dialog. Current Archicad documentation lists FBX and OBJ as native supported import formats. No third-party plugin is required.

Which software option should I select for Archicad?

Select Archicad in the Software dropdown on the asset page. A23D delivers the Archicad package as FBX with embedded material data, which Archicad can open or merge directly, or import as a GDL Object. For Archicad 28 and earlier, you may need to convert the A23D model to 3D DWG, 3DS, SKP, Rhino 3DM, or IFC depending on your project and available tools.

How do I import A23D models into Archicad?

Use File > Libraries and Objects > Import FBX as GDL Object to import A23D models into Archicad. You can also use File > Open, File > Interoperability > Merge, or drag-and-drop for other FBX import workflows. In the FBX Open Options dialog, enable texture import so the embedded material textures are saved to the project's Embedded Library.

How do I use A23D PBR textures with Archicad surfaces?

Open Options > Element Attributes > Surfaces to create a new Surface, then load the A23D maps:

• Albedo / Diffuse -> Texture (Base color)
• Normal map -> Bump / Normal Map
• Roughness -> Shininess or reflectance-related controls (invert if the slot expects glossiness)
• Metallic -> Renderer-specific metal/reflectance control where available
• Opacity -> Alpha Channel

Native Archicad surfaces are best treated as a partial PBR workflow. Use the matching Enscape, Twinmotion, V-Ray, Redshift, D5, or Lumion material editor when exact roughness/metalness/AO behavior is required.

Can I use A23D Decals in Archicad?

Yes. Apply the A23D decal as a Surface on a thin Slab or Morph object positioned just above the host surface. Use the supplied opacity map in the Surface's Alpha Channel so the decal blends onto the underlying material.

How do I use A23D IES lighting profiles in Archicad?

Archicad's lighting fixture objects support IES files via the Photometric Web parameter in their settings. Load the A23D .ies file and the fixture emits with the manufacturer-accurate distribution under supported rendering engines.

Are A23D assets BIM-compatible in Archicad?

Imported A23D objects can be classified to the appropriate Archicad category (Furniture, Lighting, Object, etc.) so they participate in schedules, classifications, and layouts like other objects. They remain imported mesh/object geometry, not parametric BIM elements.

What texture resolution should I use in Archicad?

Use 4K maps for hero materials seen up close, 2K for general furniture and casework, and 1K for distant or background elements. Tiered resolutions keep the project file responsive while preserving render quality.