The Designers Show by Chief Experts Chief Experts Dan Baumann, John Schrader, Rene Rabbitt, Robin Fisher & Kevin Transue

 

Welcome to The "Designers Show" by Chief Experts, where design isn't just an art—it's a profit center!

Welcome to the final part of our series on what's new in Chief Architect X16! In this episode, Robin, John, and Rene take us through some of the most advanced and exciting rendering features the software has to offer. Whether you're a professional designer or an enthusiastic hobbyist, this guide will provide valuable insights to enhance your projects.

HDR Backdrops (0:39-8:47)


Renee explains the importance of HDR (High Dynamic Range) backdrops for rendering.
Differences between old PNG backdrops and new HDR backdrops are highlighted.
Demonstrates setting up HDR backdrops and their impact on ambient lighting and color grading.
Introduces the 'move sun' tool for adjusting sunlight direction and the 'rotate spherical backdrop' tool.

Rendering Techniques and Adjustments (8:47-14:06)


Discusses the use of photo editors to enhance backdrops and create directional sunlight.
Highlights automatic exposure adjustments when moving between exterior and interior shots.
Covers managing scene lighting and ensuring proper exposure through rebuilding the scene.

Lighting and Performance Tips (14:19-23:25)


Discusses the impact of lighting on performance and how to manage light sets for different rooms.
Explains the benefits of creating light sets and assigning them to specific cameras.
Shares tips for reducing rendering slowdowns by turning off unnecessary layers and objects.

Managing Large Files and High Poly Counts (23:25-30:46)


Provides guidelines on managing large project files and reducing poly counts.
Demonstrates how to check and manage poly counts for better performance.
Advises on using efficient symbols and filtering searches on 3D Warehouse.

Optimization Techniques for Rendering (30:46-36:53)


Discusses using AMD FidelityFX for better performance on lower-end machines.
Explains the importance of setting sample rates and understanding how denoising works.
Tips for optimizing scenes for both designing and final rendering.

New Features in X16: Emissive Area Lighting (44:51-52:18)


Demonstrates how to create and manage emissive materials that emit light.
Shows how to adjust light intensity and manage materials independently.
Highlights the benefits of using emissive materials for more realistic lighting effects.

Translucent Materials (53:45-57:36)


Explains the process of creating translucent materials and their impact on rendering.
Demonstrates adjusting transmission roughness to control light dispersion through materials.
Shows an example of using translucent shades in a rendering.

Closing Remarks (57:36-61:08)


Brief discussion on mixed material classes and their complexity.
Shows an example of a detailed rendering using mixed materials.
The hosts thank the audience and conclude the session.

Resources:


Join Rene's VIP YouTube section

 

 
Connect with Us! 

Subscribe to our Youtube Channel
Subscribe to our podcast for more in-depth discussions and expert advice on architectural design.
Visit our website for additional resources and full episode access.

Contact Information:


Share your feedback and questions via email at dan@chiefexperts.com.
Connect with us on social media for daily updates and tips.

🖥 Dan's Website

💻 RSVP for The Designers Show

😊 Dan's Social Accounts


→ Facebook Page
→ Facebook Group
→ Instagram
→ Youtube
→ LinkedIn
→ Google Page 

 

About the Co-Hosts:


John Schrader



Kevin Transue



Robin Rigby Fisher



Rene Rabbitt



 

Welcome to The "Designers Show" by Chief Experts, where design isn't just an art—it's a profit center!

Welcome to part three of our "What's New in Chief Architect X16" series on The Designer Show! In this episode, hosts Renee and John dive into powerful features and workflows that will take your architectural designs to the next level. Whether you're an experienced user or just getting started, you'll find invaluable tips to enhance your productivity and accuracy.

Topics Covered:



3D Dimensions and Editing Tools (12:00)


Learn how to set and adjust dimensions in 3D views.
Discover tips for using extend and trim tools to manage CAD objects and polylines effectively.



Wall Layers and Types (28:00)


Understand how to set up and manage wall layers, including interior, exterior, new, and existing walls.
See how these settings streamline modifications in your plans.



Baselines and Roof Management (46:00)


Get techniques for managing roof baselines and handling automatic roof adjustments.
Learn how to create accurate roof structures and handle alignment issues.



Template Features and Rendering Settings (57:00)


Explore our essential and pro templates and how they can enhance your design process.
Tips for setting up rendering views, including performance and quality adjustments.



Q&A and Final Discussions (1:04:00)


Addressing viewer questions on various topics.
Final thoughts and a preview of upcoming sessions focused on rendering.



Resources:


Essential Template for Chief Architect X16
Pro Template for Chief Architect X16

 

 
Connect with Us! 

Subscribe to our podcast for more in-depth discussions and expert advice on architectural design.
Visit our website for additional resources and full episode access.

Contact Information:


Share your feedback and questions via email at dan@chiefexperts.com.
Connect with us on social media for daily updates and tips.

🖥 Dan's Website

💻 RSVP for The Designers Show

😊 Dan's Social Accounts


→ Facebook Page
→ Facebook Group
→ Instagram
→ Youtube
→ LinkedIn
→ Google Page 

 

About the Co-Hosts:


John Schrader



Kevin Transue



Robin Rigby Fisher



Rene Rabbitt

Welcome to The "Designers Show" by Chief Experts, where design isn't just an art—it's a profit center!

In this episode of The Designer Show, our hosts delve into the exciting new features and enhancements in Chief Architect X16. From dimensioning railings to 3D dimensioning tools, we cover everything you need to know to make the most of this powerful software. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned professional, this episode offers invaluable insights and tips to elevate your design projects.

What You'll Learn 


1:20 - Pro Plan Overview


Rene explains the development and features of the Chief Architect Premier X16 Pro Plan Template



6:00 - Chief Architect X16 New Features


Overview of new features and functionalities.



7:11 - Dimensioning Railings


Explanation of the new dimensioning capabilities for railings.



9:13 - Manual Dimensioning Tips


Demonstration of manual dimensioning of newels.



10:03 - Customizing Newels


Ideas for customizing newels within railings.



11:09 - Adding Newels in 3D


How to add newels in both 2D and 3D views.



13:02 - Managing Different Newels


Tips for managing different types of newels in a plan.



17:02 - Adding Stairs and Ramps to Library


How to save custom stairs and ramps to the library for future use.



20:01 - Adjusting Stairs for Different Heights


Techniques for adjusting stairs to account for different ceiling heights.



24:31 - Creating Landings in Stairs


Explanation of creating and adjusting landings in stair designs.



25:05 - Corner Shelves


Introduction of the new corner shelves feature and how to use it effectively.



27:01 - Customizing Framing Types


Discussion on customizing framing materials and types.



32:07 - Building Framing Panels


Overview of the new build framing panel and its features.



34:02 - Flat Header Option


Explanation of the new flat header option for doors and windows.



39:12 - Truss Direction Lines


How to use truss direction lines for roof framing.



42:17 - Deck Controls


New controls and options for customizing deck framing and support.



57:54 - 3D Dimensioning


Introduction and demonstration of the new 3D dimensioning tool.



60:07 - Custom Ruby Scripting


Introduction to custom Ruby scripting for Chief Architect by Rene.
Ruby Scripting Tool



67:05 - Story Polls and Grade Level


Explanation of how to use story polls and set grade levels.



Resources Mentioned:


Chief Architect Premier X16 Pro Plan Template
Chief Experts Summit Info

 

Connect with Us! 

Subscribe to our podcast for more in-depth discussions and expert advice on architectural design.
Visit our website for additional resources and full episode access.

Contact Information:


Share your feedback and questions via email at dan@chiefexperts.com.
Connect with us on social media for daily updates and tips.

🖥 Dan's Website

💻 RSVP for The Designers Show

😊 Dan's Social Accounts


→ Facebook Page
→ Facebook Group
→ Instagram
→ Youtube
→ LinkedIn
→ Google Page 

 

About the Co-Hosts:


John Schrader



Kevin Transue



Robin Rigby Fisher



Rene Rabbitt



 

 

 

Welcome to The "Designers Show" by Chief Experts, where design isn't just an art—it's a profit center!

In this episode, our hosts dive deep into the latest features and updates of Chief Architect X16. Whether you're a seasoned user or new to Chief Architect, this episode offers valuable insights into the new tools, enhancements, and functionalities designed to make your design process more efficient and enjoyable. From Action History to Converting Text to Notes, join Dan, John, Rene, Kevin, and Robin as they explore these innovative updates and share practical tips for maximizing the software's potential.

What You'll Learn:
 


Action History: Track and manage actions within a project for easy undo/redo.
Layer Painter Customization: Enhanced tools for applying layers efficiently.
Auto Numbering for Construction Lines: Automatic numbering setup for better organization.
Capture View to Clipboard: Capture specific views for documentation.
Reset Save Plan View: Restore original views after modifications.
Concentric Resize Tool: Resize objects concentrically with ease.
Delete Dimension Tool: Remove dimensions quickly and efficiently.
Convert Polyline to Terrain Curb or Wall: Convert polylines to terrain features.
Reflect About Line Enhancement: Improved functionality for reflecting objects.
Merge Line Styles: Consolidate line styles for standardization.
Converting Text to Notes: Convert text into notes for schedules.
Find Schedule from Object: Locate schedules associated with objects quickly.
Toolbar Feature Search: Find and access tools with the new search function.
Space Planning Room Boxes: Updated configuration for room boxes.
Railing Newel Spacing: Customize newel spacing in railings.

 

Episode Highlights:
 



[0:01] Introduction and Greetings


Dan welcomes viewers and introduces the team.
Special shout-outs to Bruce and Todd, a dedicated student of Chief Architect.



[1:15] Overview of X16 Features


Initial impressions of the new features and tools.
Discussions on the potential impact and usefulness of these updates.



[2:03] Upcoming Summit


Announcement of next year's Summit with nine attendees confirmed.
Reflections on past Summits and their benefits for business growth.



[4:19] Accessing New Features


How to find X16 features on Chief Architect's website.
Introduction to the new Action History feature and its applications.



[6:12] Action History


Demonstration of the Action History tool under the view menu.
Using the tool to undo or redo specific actions effectively.



[10:08] Layer Painter Customization


Enhancements in the Layer Painter tool.
Customizing and applying layers more efficiently.



[14:11] Auto Numbering for Construction Lines


Setting up automatic numbering for construction lines.
Practical applications and benefits for detailed planning.



[17:06] Capture View to Clipboard


New feature to capture specific views to the clipboard.
Applications for emails and documentation.



[19:05] Reset Save Plan View


How to restore the original view after modifications.
Avoiding common pitfalls when working with layout pages.



[22:23] Concentric Resize Tool


Introduction to the new concentric resize icon.
Practical demonstrations and tips for resizing objects concentrically.



[25:22] Delete Dimension Tool


Overview of the new delete dimension tool.
Demonstrating how to remove dimensions efficiently.



[27:38] Convert Polyline to Terrain Curb or Wall


Using the convert tool to change polylines to terrain features.
Practical tips and examples of terrain curbs and walls.



[34:11] Reflect About Line Enhancement


Improved functionality for reflecting objects about a line.
Practical applications for design symmetry and accuracy.



[36:25] Merge Line Styles


Merging different line styles into a single style.
Practical applications for cleaning up and standardizing drawings.



[41:47] Converting Text to Notes


How to convert selected text into notes for schedules.
Creating and cus

Welcome to The "Designers Show" by Chief Experts, where design isn't just an art—it's a profit center!

Join our hosts Robin, Kevin, and Renee as they dive deep into the world of design dimensions, NKBA standards, and the latest features in Chief Architect X16. This episode is packed with insights on precision in dimensioning, setting up default dimensions, using manual and auto dimensions, and advanced techniques to streamline your design workflow. Perfect for both Chief Architect beginners and experienced Chief Architect users, this episode offers valuable tips and expert advice to elevate your design projects.

What You'll Learn:

The importance of accurate dimensions and common misinterpretations
NKBA standards for kitchen and bath design
How to set up manual dimensions for different plan views
Precision levels in dimensioning and customizing default settings
Advanced dimensioning techniques to minimize clutter
New features in Chief Architect X16, including 3D dimensions and automated callouts
Proper usage of different arrowheads in technical documentation
Tips for automating annotations and converting text to notes

Hosts:

Robin - Expert in kitchen and bath design, sharing insights on NKBA standards and manual dimensioning.
Kevin - Design professional discussing precision in dimensioning and the importance of following industry standards.
Renee - Specialist in Chief Architect, demonstrating new features in X16 and providing advanced dimensioning techniques.

Episode Highlights:
Introduction and Overview of Dimensions (0:00 - 14:47)


0:00 - Welcome and introductions
0:14 - Importance of understanding dimensions
1:20 - Technical issues and temporary setups
2:10 - NKBA standards for kitchen and bath design
3:05 - Setting up manual dimensions according to NKBA standards
9:03 - Manual vs. auto dimensioning
11:02 - Setting up dimensions for different plan views

Precision and Default Dimension Settings (14:47 - 28:10)


14:47 - Precision levels in dimensioning
15:13 - Customizing default dimensions for efficiency
15:50 - Q&A: Measuring windows and corners
17:00 - Updating templates during a project
17:48 - Importing default settings and adjustments
19:05 - Tips for precise dimensioning and template saving

Advanced Dimensioning Techniques (28:10 - 41:42)


28:10 - Clarifying surface vs. main layer
30:09 - Using default sets for different projects
31:10 - Advanced dimensioning techniques
32:32 - Q&A: Auto interior dimensions
33:44 - Efficient manual dimensioning strategies
34:59 - Minimizing clutter in dimension lines
38:04 - Viewer comments and additional tips
39:09 - Aligning exterior dimension offsets

New Features in Chief Architect X16 (41:42 - 55:43)


41:42 - Overview of new X16 features
42:09 - Practical applications of 3D dimensions
43:02 - Automating callouts with XY position feature
45:00 - Linking callouts to CAD details
46:11 - Automating annotations with the new tool
47:30 - Converting text to notes for documentation
49:07 - Custom annotations and practical tips

Arrow Types, Global Changes, and Wrap-Up (55:43 - 62:37)


55:43 - Different arrowheads and their uses
56:05 - Proper usage of half arrows
56:47 - Common arrowheads in technical documentation
57:35 - Creating and using custom arrowheads
59:03 - Global changes to arrowheads
60:06 - Submitting feature suggestions to Chief Architect
60:33 - Finding industry-standard references
61:13 - Expert consultation and support
62:19 - Final wrap-up and summary

Resources Mentioned:


Chief Architect X16



NKBA Standards



Chief Experts website



Connect with Us:

Subscribe to our podcast for more in-depth discussions and expert advice on architectural design.


Visit our website for additional resources and full episode access.

Contact Information:


Share your feedback and questions via email at dan@chiefexperts.com.
Connect with us on social media for daily updates and tips.

🖥 Dan's Website

💻 RSVP for The Designers Show

😊 Dan's Soci

Welcome to The "Designers Show" by Chief Experts, where design isn't just an art—it's a profit center!

Join Chief Experts Dan Baumann, John Schrader, Kevin Transue, Rene Rabbitt and Robin Rigby-Fisher as they dive deep into the essentials of plan review and dimension management. This episode is packed with professional insights aimed at enhancing the skills of architects and designers through precise and efficient architectural planning.

Episode Timestamps:


Introduction and Overview (0:00 - 1:50)
Introduction of the plan review session (1:50 - 2:26)
Detailed Plan Review: Kitchen Design (2:26 - 6:09)
Improvement Suggestions and Title Block Tips (6:09 - 9:04)
Responsibilities and Disclaimers in Construction Plans (9:04 - 10:56)
Dimension Management and Best Practices (10:56 - 17:59)
Elevation Views and Accurate Camera Settings (17:59 - 19:59)
Effective Visualization and Rendering Techniques (19:59 - 27:33)
Detailing Cabinet Scheduling and Dimensioning (27:33 - 30:15)
Managing Notes and Annotations in Design Plans (30:15 - 33:05)
Numbering and Label Management within Design Plans (33:05 - 36:36)
Advanced Techniques in Managing Schedules and Dimensions (36:36 - 39:08)
Roof and Structural Adjustments (38:14 - 44:26)
Using 3D Tools to Adjust and Perfect Building Models (44:26 - 49:53)
Step-By-Step Process for Creating A Complex Staircase (49:53 - 55:07)
Advanced 3D Modeling Techniques and Material Handling in 3D Models (55:07 – 1:00:26)

What You'll Learn:



The Importance of Thorough Plan Reviews


Learn why detailed plan reviews are crucial for successful project outcomes and how they help avoid costly errors.



Mastering Dimension Management


Explore techniques for accurate dimensioning in architectural plans, focusing on both interior and exterior measurements.



Live Plan Critique


Experience a real-time critique of a submitted kitchen plan, with experts discussing common mistakes and suggesting improvements.



Advanced 3D Visualization Techniques


Discover how to use Chief Architect's 3D tools to create realistic visualizations and solve design challenges.



Interactive Q&A Session


Gain insights from an interactive Q&A where experts answer live audience questions, providing solutions and tips tailored to real-world design issues.



Featured Guests:


[Expert Name], Chief Architect Specialist
[Expert Name], Design Consultant

Episode Highlights:


Real-world applications of theoretical design principles.
Practical demonstrations of software tools in action.
Audience engagement through a live question-and-answer segment.

Resources Mentioned:


Chief Architect software tutorials
Upcoming training sessions and workshops for further skill enhancement.

Call to Action:


Subscribe to our podcast for more in-depth discussions and expert advice on architectural design.
Visit our website for additional resources and full episode access.

Contact Information:


Share your feedback and questions via email at dan@chiefexperts.com.
Connect with us on social media for daily updates and tips.

🖥 Dan's Website

💻 RSVP for The Designers Show

😊 Dan's Social Accounts


→ Facebook Page
→ Facebook Group
→ Instagram
→ Youtube
→ LinkedIn
→ Google Page 

 

About John Schrader

Kevin Transue's website

Robin Rigby Fisher's Website

Rene Rabbitt's Website