Finch3D is an AI-powered generative design platform built specifically for architects and developers. It helps users automate early-stage space planning and building massing by instantly generating layout alternatives that respond to site constraints, building regulations, and design preferences.
Unlike traditional design software that relies heavily on manual input, Finch3D leverages AI to create intelligent design options in real time. The platform streamlines schematic design, speeds up feasibility studies, and helps architects visualize and adjust building models dynamically. With support for regulatory compliance, unit mix optimization, and 3D modeling, Finch3D is reshaping how buildings are conceived and iterated.
It integrates seamlessly with tools like Rhino and Revit, making it a powerful co-pilot for modern architecture and real estate teams aiming to accelerate their design process without compromising quality or control.
Features
AI-Driven Space Planning: Instantly generate optimized floor plans based on site dimensions, zoning laws, and user inputs.
Live Design Editing: Modify parameters like unit mix, building height, and density to see real-time changes in the layout.
Massing & Feasibility Tools: Create massing models for feasibility analysis and planning approval.
Regulation Compliance: Built-in rules engine that adapts to local zoning and building codes.
Unit Mix Optimization: Automatically balance unit types (e.g., studios, 1BR, 2BR) based on your goals.
Rhino Integration: Export Finch-generated plans directly into Rhino for detailed design and visualization.
Revit Support (Beta): Enables BIM workflow integration for construction documentation.
Multi-Scenario Comparison: Evaluate and compare different design scenarios side-by-side.
Cloud-Based Platform: Accessible from any browser with cloud-based project storage.
Collaboration Ready: Share projects with team members and stakeholders in real-time.
How It Works
Set Site Parameters: Enter project constraints such as site shape, size, setbacks, height limits, and zoning rules.
Choose Unit Mix: Define your program goals, including unit types, square footage targets, and density preferences.
AI Layout Generation: Finch3D generates multiple space plans and building massing options instantly.
Live Edits & Adjustments: Users can drag, modify, and reconfigure the design interactively to test variations.
Export Models: Export selected designs into Rhino or Revit for further detailing and documentation.
Compare & Decide: Use the comparison tool to assess layout efficiency, buildable area, and code compliance.
This workflow significantly reduces early-stage design time and increases the quality of design decisions.
Use Cases
Architectural Firms: Automate the schematic design process and generate multiple plan options in minutes.
Real Estate Developers: Quickly test site feasibility, zoning compliance, and financial yield based on optimized unit mixes.
Urban Planners: Visualize density and building forms for city block planning and masterplans.
Design-Build Firms: Improve collaboration between design and construction teams through fast iteration and data-rich models.
Academic Use: Educators and students use Finch3D to explore parametric design and real-time architectural logic.
Pricing
Finch3D offers customized pricing depending on team size, feature access, and integration needs. Here is the general structure:
Starter Plan (Early Access) – By Request
Basic access to layout generation
Single-user license
Rhino export support
Ideal for small firms and freelancers
Team Plan – Custom Pricing
Multi-user access
Advanced design customization
Regulatory compliance engine
Scenario comparison tools
Rhino + Revit export
Priority support
Enterprise Plan – Tailored Solutions
For large architecture and development firms
Dedicated onboarding
Custom integration
API access
Admin controls and SLA
To get pricing details, users must request access through the website, as Finch3D is currently onboarding clients selectively.
Strengths
Speed & Efficiency: Cuts down schematic design time from days to minutes.
Intelligent Layouts: Delivers well-optimized, code-aware designs instantly.
User-Controlled AI: Offers real-time editing and doesn’t lock users into static outputs.
Cross-Platform Integration: Works well with Rhino and is expanding Revit support.
Cloud-Based Collaboration: Easy to access and share across teams and devices.
Visual & Data-Driven: Combines 3D modeling with buildable area analysis and planning metrics.
Drawbacks
No Public Pricing: Requires a demo or sales call to access full pricing and features.
Early Access Model: Some features (e.g., Revit export) are still in beta or limited release.
Steep Learning Curve for New Users: Architects unfamiliar with parametric design tools may need some training.
Not for Final Documentation: Designed for pre-design and concept stages—requires export to BIM tools for detailed drawings.
Limited DIY Trial: No free trial or instant hands-on access is available publicly.
Comparison with Other Tools
Finch3D vs. TestFit
Finch3D offers greater design flexibility, including massing, unit mix optimization, and Rhino export.
TestFit focuses on real estate feasibility (especially for multifamily and parking analysis).
Finch is better for architects; TestFit is tailored for developers and estimators.
Finch3D vs. Swapp AI
Swapp is focused on full construction document generation including MEP layouts.
Finch3D specializes in early-stage design and planning with real-time iteration.
Use Finch3D in the pre-concept phase; Swapp in the documentation and coordination phase.
Finch3D vs. Autodesk Forma (formerly Spacemaker)
Forma is backed by Autodesk and integrates tightly with Revit for urban-scale modeling.
Finch3D is more design-flexible and architect-led, ideal for individual buildings or smaller-scale projects.
Forma offers more urban-level insights; Finch focuses on customizable building-level planning.
Customer Reviews and Testimonials
Finch3D has received positive attention in the architectural tech space and has been featured in major publications like ArchDaily and Dezeen. While the site doesn’t list extensive customer reviews, several testimonials and press features praise its ability to:
“Save 80% of time in early-stage planning.”
“Empower architects to make smarter decisions faster.”
“Bridge the gap between creativity and code compliance.”
Select partners and early adopters include international architecture firms and urban developers who have cited its integration with Rhino and real-time design capabilities as key benefits.
Conclusion
Finch3D is an innovative and high-impact AI tool that’s changing the way architects and developers approach early-stage design. By generating regulation-aware layouts and allowing for real-time design changes, it helps professionals produce smarter, faster, and more informed architectural plans.
Though it’s still in an early access phase and best suited for firms comfortable with parametric workflows, Finch3D shows tremendous promise as a co-pilot for design decision-making. With growing support for BIM tools and collaborative cloud features, Finch3D stands out as one of the leading generative design platforms in the AEC industry.
