New to Archicad

[Anonymous]

Hi All,

I have recently changed jobs this has means that I am have learn ArchiCAD for the first time, after using AutoCAD for a number years.

I think the software is fantastic and already I fine my self productive with it.

However my question is.... when working on residential projects I find it difficult to provide items such chimneys/Fireplaces complete with openings cut through walls, and other things such as fascias etc.

I'm aware that ArchiCAD is capable of making objects through the use of GDL, however because i'm a new user this is a bit down the line.

Can anyone suggest methods in which I can achieve the above?, I would much appreciate this.

[Anonymous]

Hi Martin and welcome to the ArchiCAD forum.

In the ArchiCAD 9 library there are Fireplaces, these are GDL objects.
They can be found under basic library 9 > Special Constructions> Fireplaces and stoves. Are any of these objects useful to you? remember you can always change the parameters such as size, materials etc.

Chimneys can be constructed using walls / slab tool or try the primitive objects folder

You can also download or buy GDL objetcs online

try the following

www.gdlcentral.com
or http://www.objectsonline.com/

HTH

[Anonymous]

Thanks for that.

I see the fireplace's available. I think I understand, I will then ned to construct the remainder of the chimney with the wall and slab tool i.e. return the external cavity wall around the fireplace.

Could you please post an example.

Thanks once more.

[Anonymous]

Its difficult for me to visulaise what your requirements are but yes you can add walls / slabs etc to show the chimney breast either internally or externally.

Also carefully check the parameters of those objects, they may let you construct the chimney to a certain height as well.

It is often said on this forum that you should model as you would build, I will let other more experienced archicaders ellaborate on this one.

Dont know if the small jpg will help you much im afraid.

HTH

[Anonymous]

Thanks for that.

I have been trying it out. It's true that you should model as you would build.

I have attached a pic showing what I'm trying to achieve.

[Vitruvius]

Martin,

One easy way to achieve a custom fireplace opening (also check out page 249 of the reference manual).

1. Draw a slab (say 500mm thick) with the outline of the fireplace opening (arched head, round, whatever you desire etc.) with the bottom at 0 and the top at 500mm per above. Call up the slab settings and change the ID (under Listing & Labelling) to 'Wallniche'. This will be your void space.
2. Draw the fireplace box, mantle, stone surrounds, glass doors using slabs, roofs, walls or whatever. Make sure you apply the materials you want. Don't change the ID for these items!!!
3. Open everything in the 3D window and 'Save as Library Part (window)'.

You can then use this like a Window symbol and insert it into a 750mm wall and it will create the 500mm deep void and fire box described above.

Just keep in mind when constructing, that everything is 'face down' ie, the 'worms eye view' is the front view. Weird, but thats the way AC handles Doors & Windows. And make sure the front of your fireplace is set at 0 elevation and built up from there. And set the lower centrepoint at the project origin.

The above can be used to graphically create any number of 'Door/Window' custom openings AND the bits inside such as frames, doors, hardware. For a door/window just use 'Wallhole' in place of 'Wallniche'.


Cheers

[Anonymous]

Thanks very much for you tip. That was very useful, much appreciated.

Thanks...