If you are new to Graphisoft ArchiCAD (now part of the Nemetschek Group), you have likely heard the advice: “Open the sample projects.” But simply opening a file is not enough. To truly accelerate your learning curve, you need to understand how ArchiCAD sample projects work.
Whether you are a student, a BIM manager, or a practicing architect switching from Revit or AutoCAD, sample projects are your gateway to understanding layers, renovation filters, complex profiles, and publishing workflows. This article explains exactly what ArchiCAD sample projects are, how they function under the hood, and how to use them to master real-world BIM workflows.
Most tutorials teach you how to draw a wall. Sample projects teach you why a wall is drawn a certain way. archicad sample projects work
ArchiCAD sample projects are pre-built, fully functional BIM models that ship with the software. They are not simple “demos” or screenshots; they are living .PLN or .BIM files containing walls, slabs, roofs, zones, sections, details, schedules, and layouts.
Graphisoft provides these files to demonstrate best practices. The most famous examples include: If you are new to Graphisoft ArchiCAD (now
Open the sample project. Change a wall. The dimension updates because the dimension was placed using the “Interactive Dimension” tool, not static lines. Check your dimension tool settings.
Yes and no. ArchiCAD 27 can open AC 26 sample projects, but not vice versa. Always use the samples matching your version or convert them using the File > Open > Convert workflow. Most tutorials teach you how to draw a wall
Advanced users know that sample projects contain “secret” lessons. Here is what to look for: