The dynamic city layouts allow you to create interactive street networks that automatically update in real time. To learn more about procedural modeling, see Grammar-based modeling. The commands provided in the CityEngine CGA shape grammar, such as extrude, split or texture, are widely known commands in most 3D applications, and you can adapt them to create complex architectural forms.

CityEngine features Procedural modeling core Instead of the classical intervention of the user, who manually interacts with the model and models 3D geometries, the task is described abstractly, in a rule file.

The computer is given a code-based procedure that represents a series of commands-in this context, geometric modeling commands-which then will be executed. I have used ArchiCAD and Revit + 3D Max in my career, however switched to ARCHLine.XP as it turned to be more intuitive software for the architects and designers: lower demand for the tech parameters, smooth work, ongoing significant improvement and development, features for Architects, Interior designers, Furniture Designers, MEP, Landscape designers, Urban planning (terrain work), very decent rendering and simulation, management features and all BIM provides (quantity take-offs, billings, team work, compatibility etc).The main concept of CityEngine is the procedural approach toward modeling efficiently. Multiple good features for the detailing and in 2D and in 3D, easy to use materials libraries and customization of anything a user wants to add to his libraries. ARCHLine.XP is a solid professional tool with a big quantity of functions which are created in a very intuitive and easy to learn, easy to use way, however it is also a platform which a user can adjust for his needs and work. There is also LIVE sub software available, which brings Unreal Engine core to the live rendering of the projects.

This program is designed for American timber framed houses, using 100mm timber, and has a load of features to make that work for you. If you want UK specs and want to design a house with ICF or 300 mm insulated cavity, then you'll have your work cut out. The program comes with many set buttons, say for foundations, but no way of creating what you want, and saving it as your standard. It starts off with a number of standard buildings, but if you want to go off piste, you start out with a blank and lose some of the available auto parts, which can be accessed, but not so easily.

Cityengine to sketchup