Updated on: 13 February 2026
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What begins as a simple SketchUp model can quickly turn into a complex, time-critical design process filled with repetitive tasks, workarounds, and last-minute changes. As projects grow in scale and pressure increases, these friction points don’t just slow designers down, they can derail entire workflows.
This is where SketchUp plugins often become lifesavers. By extending SketchUp’s core capabilities, they transform it into a faster, smarter, and far more capable design tool that can keep up with real-world project demands.
Below, you’ll find a curated list of SketchUp plugins covering AI, rendering, productivity, analysis, and parametric modeling.
Each plugin includes category, primary objective, use cases, supported OS compatibility, and more details to help you build an efficient SketchUp workflow.
SketchUp Plugin Overview Table
1. AI Render by SketchUp Team
Category
Rendering, Architecture, Interior Design
Plugin Objective
Create concept visuals in seconds using generative AI inside SketchUp. For more information, visit: https://help.sketchup.com/sketchup-ai-render
Use Cases
Generate quick photorealistic renderings directly from SketchUp scenes using generative AI, without exporting models or setting up complex rendering workflows
Explore and define different visual styles, materials, and lighting moods during early design stages to compare concepts efficiently
Overlay AI-generated images on SketchUp scenes to support fast presentations, design reviews, and clear communication of design intent
SketchUp Compatibility
SketchUp 2026, SketchUp 2025, SketchUp 2024
Operating System Compatibility
Windows, Mac
Supported Languages
English, Czech, German, Spanish, French, Italian, Polish, Brazilian Portuguese, Swedish, Russian, Japanese, Korean, Traditional Chinese, Simplified Chinese
Pricing
Free
2. AI Assistant by SketchUp Team
Category
Productivity
Plugin Objective
Enable AI-driven assistance, contextual guidance, and object creation inside SketchUp to speed up modeling and decision-making.
Overview
SketchUp Assistant is an AI-powered companion built directly into SketchUp. It helps users interact with the software more intuitively by answering questions in natural language and generating 3D objects from text or image references, all without leaving the modeling environment.
Instead of searching documentation or external tutorials, users can get immediate, in-context support while working on their models.
Core Capabilities
In-App Help Agent
The Help Agent provides instant answers to SketchUp-related questions, making it easier to learn tools, fix issues, and improve workflows during active modeling sessions.
Typical questions include:
How a specific tool works
How to optimize or clean up models
Best practices for common modeling tasks
AI-Based Object Generation
Users can describe an object in plain language or upload a reference image, and the Assistant generates usable SketchUp geometry automatically.
Highlights:
Text-to-3D object generation
Image-guided object creation
Automatic sizing and model placement
Object library view for generated assets
Background processing with completion notifications
Use Cases
Getting real-time help while modeling
Learning SketchUp tools more efficiently
Generating custom objects for early design stages
Accelerating concept and iteration workflows
How It Works?
Open SketchUp Assistant from the toolbar or Plugins menu
Log in using a Trimble account
Select either Help or Object Generation
Ask questions or generate objects directly inside SketchUp
Requirements
SketchUp 2024 or newer
Active SketchUp Pro, Studio, or Go subscription
Internet connection
AI credits for object generation features
AI Credits
Object generation consumes AI credits included in the user’s subscription plan. Credits refresh automatically on a monthly basis.
Compatibility
SketchUp 2026, SketchUp 2025, SketchUp 2024
Operating Systems
Windows, macOS
Supported Languages
English, Czech, German, Spanish, French, Italian, Swedish, Polish, Dutch, Brazilian Portuguese, Traditional Chinese, Simplified Chinese, Korean, Japanese, Russian, Turkish
Pricing
Free
3. Daylight Analysis
Category
Architecture, Interior Design, Energy Analysis
Plugin Objective
Run fast, in-model daylight analysis to evaluate daylight performance directly within SketchUp.
Use Cases
Analyze daylight performance directly inside SketchUp using standard daylight metrics
Compare daylight conditions across different design options and spatial configurations
Visualize daylight distribution through heat maps for quick interpretation
Support design decisions and client communication with simple daylight reports
SketchUp Compatibility
SketchUp 2026, SketchUp 2025
Operating System Compatibility
Windows, Mac
Supported Languages
English
Pricing
Free
4. Extension Migrator
Category
Productivity
Plugin Objective
Carry over installed extensions to a new SketchUp version.
Use Cases
Migrate installed SketchUp extensions when upgrading to a new SketchUp version without reinstalling them manually
Preserve existing plugin setups to maintain workflow continuity and reduce setup time
SketchUp Compatibility
SketchUp 2025
Operating System Compatibility
Windows, Mac
Supported Languages
Czech, German, Traditional Chinese, Simplified Chinese, Korean, Japanese, Russian, Turkish, Swedish, Brazilian Portuguese, Polish, Dutch, Italian, French, Spanish, English
Pricing
Free
5. Space Finder
Category
Architecture, Productivity, Reporting
Plugin Objective
Find and manage spaces within SketchUp models for space planning and reporting.
Use Cases
Identify, visualize, and manage spaces directly within SketchUp models for space planning and area analysis
Assign building and space types to generate structured spatial data for reporting and documentation
Calculate and report gross and net floor areas to support early planning, feasibility studies, and client communication
SketchUp Compatibility
SketchUp 2026, SketchUp 2025, SketchUp 2024, SketchUp 2023
Operating System Compatibility
Windows, Mac
Supported Languages
English
Pricing
Free
6. Advanced Camera Tools
Category
Animation, Productivity, Rendering
Plugin Objective
Allow film and television professionals to place real-world cameras in SketchUp models.
Use Cases
Place and configure real-world camera types inside SketchUp to match actual film and photography setups
Preview camera angles, focal lengths, and framing directly within 3D scenes for accurate shot planning
Support storyboarding, set design, and location planning workflows by visualizing final camera shots before production
SketchUp Compatibility
SketchUp 2026, SketchUp 2025, SketchUp 2024, SketchUp 2023, SketchUp 2022
Operating System Compatibility
Windows, Mac
Supported Languages
English
Pricing
Free
7. Shapes
Category
Drawing Tools
Plugin Objective
Create a variety of basic geometric forms based on user-defined parameters.
Use Cases
Create basic geometric forms using user-defined parameters to speed up conceptual modeling
Generate parametric primitive shapes for early design exploration and massing studies
Support quick geometry creation without manual drawing for efficient concept development
SketchUp Compatibility
SketchUp 2026, SketchUp 2025, SketchUp 2024, SketchUp 2023, SketchUp 2022
Operating System Compatibility
Windows, Mac
Supported Languages
English
Pricing
Free
8. Solar North
Category
Rendering, Landscape Architecture, Architecture
Plugin Objective
Display and alter the solar north direction for accurate shadow behavior.
Use Cases
Adjust and visualize the solar north direction to ensure accurate sun and shadow behavior in SketchUp models
Perform shadow and sunlight studies to evaluate building orientation and environmental impact
Correct misaligned model axes to improve the reliability of lighting, shading, and visualization results
SketchUp Compatibility
SketchUp 2024, SketchUp 2023, SketchUp 2022
Operating System Compatibility
Windows, Mac
Supported Languages
English
Pricing
Free
9. Bezier Curve Tool
Category
Drawing Tools
Plugin Objective
Create smooth Bézier curves that are not limited by the Arc tool.
Use Cases
Create smooth, scalable Bézier curves that go beyond the limitations of SketchUp’s native Arc tool
Model organic forms, flowing geometry, and precise paths for architectural and design elements
Design complex curves that remain editable and accurate throughout the modeling process
SketchUp Compatibility
SketchUp 2026, SketchUp 2025, SketchUp 2024, SketchUp 2023, SketchUp 2022
Operating System Compatibility
Windows, Mac
Supported Languages
English
Pricing
Free
10. Sandbox Tools
Category
Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Drawing Tools
Plugin Objective
Generate and manipulate terrain surfaces using sandbox modeling tools.
Use Cases
Create and shape terrain surfaces directly inside SketchUp for site planning and landscape design
Edit and refine triangulated surfaces to adjust slopes, contours, and topography accurately
Model site context and landforms to support early-stage master planning and environmental studies
SketchUp Compatibility
SketchUp 2026, SketchUp 2025, SketchUp 2024, SketchUp 2023, SketchUp 2022
Operating System Compatibility
Windows, Mac
Supported Languages
English
Pricing
Free
11. Shapespark
Category
Rendering, Architecture, Interior Design
Plugin Objective
Create interactive, web-based real-time 3D visualizations from SketchUp models.
Use Cases
Create interactive, web-based real-time 3D visualizations directly from SketchUp models without additional software setup
Share designs through web links to enable immersive walkthroughs on desktop and mobile browsers
Host interactive design presentations and remote walkthroughs, supporting client reviews and collaboration
SketchUp Compatibility
SketchUp 2026, SketchUp 2025, SketchUp 2024, SketchUp 2023, SketchUp 2022
Operating System Compatibility
Windows
Supported Languages
English
Pricing
Free
12. SketchFX Ex
Category
Animation, Rendering
Plugin Objective
Create artistic visualizations and animations from SketchUp models with one click.
Use Cases
Generate artistic still images from SketchUp models using predefined illustration and sketch-style effects
Create stylized animations quickly to communicate design ideas and concepts visually
Apply visual effects with a single click to produce expressive presentations without complex rendering setups
SketchUp Compatibility
SketchUp 2026, SketchUp 2025, SketchUp 2024, SketchUp 2023, SketchUp 2022
Operating System Compatibility
Windows, Mac
Supported Languages
English, Italian, Spanish, Brazilian Portuguese, Simplified Chinese
Pricing
$159.00
13. AmbientOcclusion Ex
Category
Architecture, Animation, Interior Design
Plugin Objective
Render and animate SketchUp models quickly using ambient occlusion visualization.
Use Cases
Create fast ambient occlusion renders to preview forms, depth, and spatial relationships without full photorealistic rendering
Produce shaded visuals that emphasize geometry and improve readability for design reviews and presentations
Render simple animations quickly using ambient occlusion style for rapid concept communication
SketchUp Compatibility
SketchUp 2026, SketchUp 2025, SketchUp 2024, SketchUp 2023, SketchUp 2022
Operating System Compatibility
Windows, Mac
Supported Languages
English
Pricing
$189.00
14. Trimble Connect 2.0
Category
Productivity, Architecture, Import & Export
Plugin Objective
Work with Trimble Connect data inside older versions of SketchUp.
Use Cases
Access, share, and manage SketchUp models and references through Trimble Connect for streamlined collaboration and coordination
Managing comments and references
SketchUp Compatibility
SketchUp 2026, SketchUp 2025, SketchUp 2024, SketchUp 2023, SketchUp 2022
Operating System Compatibility
Windows, Mac
Supported Languages
English
Pricing
Free
15. MODELUR for Urban Design
Category
Landscape Architecture, Architecture, Productivity
Plugin Objective
Enable parametric urban design, feasibility studies, and zoning checks inside SketchUp.
Use Cases
Create parametric building massing to quickly test development scenarios and design options
Run zoning, FAR, and feasibility checks directly inside SketchUp during early planning stages
Perform data-driven urban design studies to support informed decision-making and stakeholder communication
SketchUp Compatibility
SketchUp 2026, SketchUp 2025, SketchUp 2024, SketchUp 2023, SketchUp 2022
Operating System Compatibility
Windows, Mac
Supported Languages
German, English, Spanish, French, Italian, Dutch, Polish, Brazilian Portuguese, Swedish, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, Japanese, Korean
Pricing
Free
16. Architextures for SketchUp
Category
Interior Design, Architecture, Landscape Architecture
Plugin Objective
Create and edit seamless textures and materials directly inside SketchUp.
Use Cases
Generating materials using the Architextures web app
Testing material options instantly
Editing imported textures later
SketchUp Compatibility
SketchUp 2026, SketchUp 2025, SketchUp 2024, SketchUp 2023, SketchUp 2022
Operating System Compatibility
Windows, Mac
Supported Languages
English
Pricing
Free
17. Skatter
Category
Landscape Architecture, Rendering, Architecture
Plugin Objective
Render and manage large-scale vegetation and parametric distributions.
Use Cases
Populate landscapes with large amounts of vegetation and objects using parametric distribution systems
Create realistic terrain-based scattering for plants, trees, and assets without manual placement
Manage and optimize large-scale object distributions for efficient rendering and visualization workflows
SketchUp Compatibility
SketchUp 2026, SketchUp 2025, SketchUp 2024, SketchUp 2023, SketchUp 2022
Operating System Compatibility
Windows, Mac
Supported Languages
English, French, Simplified Chinese, Spanish, Traditional Chinese
Pricing
Free
18. Lumion View for Mac
Category
Rendering, Architecture, Landscape Architecture
Plugin Objective
Provide real-time visualization inside SketchUp for early-stage design.
Use Cases
View SketchUp models in real time with live lighting and shadows during early design exploration on macOS
Test sun position, daylight conditions, and basic materials instantly without exporting the model
Create quick visual diagrams and previews to support design reviews and client discussions
SketchUp Compatibility
SketchUp 2026, SketchUp 2025
Operating System Compatibility
Mac
Supported Languages
English
Pricing
Free
19. AI 3D
Category
Interior Design, 3D Printing, Import & Export
Plugin Objective
Transform furniture images and text prompts into 3D models using AI.
Use Cases
Generate 3D furniture and objects from text prompts or reference images using AI
Convert images into usable 3D models for rapid interior and product design workflows
Import generated GLB models directly into SketchUp without additional conversion steps
Accelerate early-stage furniture prototyping and concept development without manual modeling
SketchUp Compatibility
SketchUp 2025, SketchUp 2024
Operating System Compatibility
Windows, Mac
Supported Languages
English
Pricing
Free
20. SketchyFFD (Classic)
Category
Drawing Tools, Landscape Architecture, Interior Design
Plugin Objective
Manipulate meshes using free-form deformation control points.
Use Cases
Deform complex geometry using free-form deformation control points inside SketchUp.
Adjust organic and curved shapes without rebuilding the underlying model.
Modify mesh-based objects for fine-tuned design changes and experimentation.
Support flexible form exploration during early concept and iterative design stages.
SketchUp Compatibility
SketchUp 2026, SketchUp 2025, SketchUp 2024, SketchUp 2023, SketchUp 2022
Operating System Compatibility
Windows, Mac
Supported Languages
English
Pricing
Free
21. Zorro2
Category
Rendering, Drawing Tools
Plugin Objective
Slice objects and trim geometry using section planes inside SketchUp.
Use Cases
Slice and cut SketchUp geometry using section planes, even through nested groups and components
Create clean section geometry for architectural drawings and visualization workflows.
Trim complex models quickly without exploding or manually editing geometry
Prepare accurate section cuts for rendering, documentation, and design review purposes
SketchUp Compatibility
SketchUp 2026, SketchUp 2025, SketchUp 2024, SketchUp 2023, SketchUp 2022
Operating System Compatibility
Windows, Mac
Supported Languages
English
Pricing
Free
22. Viz Pro
Category
3D Printing, Animation, Energy Analysis
Plugin Objective
Add parametric modeling capabilities to SketchUp while preserving modeling history.
Use Cases
Add parametric controls to SketchUp models using sliders to adjust geometry dynamically
Update complex models without rebuilding them by preserving modeling history
Manage design iterations efficiently during concept development and optimization stages
Support parametric design workflows for 3D printing, analysis, and rapid prototyping
SketchUp Compatibility
SketchUp 2025, SketchUp 2024, SketchUp 2023, SketchUp 2022, SketchUp 2021
Operating System Compatibility
Windows, Mac
Supported Languages
English
Pricing
$99.00
23. Eneroth View Memory
Category
Animation, Productivity, Rendering
Plugin Objective
Copy and reuse views and scenes between SketchUp models.
Use Cases
Memorizing camera views
Transferring scenes across projects
Reusing layouts with consistent views
SketchUp Compatibility
SketchUp 2025, SketchUp 2024, SketchUp 2023, SketchUp 2022, SketchUp 2021
Operating System Compatibility
Windows, Mac
Supported Languages
English
Pricing
$20.00
24. V-Ray Renderer for SketchUp
Category
Rendering
Plugin Objective
Produce photorealistic renders from SketchUp models using industry-standard rendering tools.
Use Cases
Produce photorealistic renders from SketchUp models using physically accurate lighting and materials
Create realistic interior and exterior visualizations for high-end design presentations
Generate final-quality images for client approvals, marketing, and documentation
SketchUp Compatibility
SketchUp 2025, SketchUp 2024, SketchUp 2023, SketchUp 2022, SketchUp 2021
Operating System Compatibility
Windows, Mac
Supported Languages
English, Simplified Chinese
Pricing
Listing Page
25. Datasmith Exporter for Twinmotion and Unreal Engine
Category
Film & Stage, Rendering, Architecture
Plugin Objective
Export and synchronize SketchUp models to Twinmotion and Unreal Engine with one click.
Use Cases
Export SketchUp models to Twinmotion and Unreal Engine with one click
Keep SketchUp models synchronized during real-time visualization workflows
Support immersive and interactive presentations without rebuilding geometry
SketchUp Compatibility
SketchUp 2026, SketchUp 2025, SketchUp 2024, SketchUp 2023, SketchUp 2022
Operating System Compatibility
Windows, Mac
Supported Languages
German, English, Spanish, French, Brazilian Portuguese, Japanese, Korean, Simplified Chinese
Pricing
Listing Page
26. Enscape - Real-Time Workflow Plugin
Category
Rendering, Architecture, Productivity
Plugin Objective
Provide a real-time rendering workflow fully integrated into SketchUp.
Use Cases
View and explore SketchUp models in real time with live lighting, materials, and shadows during design
Create immersive walkthroughs and quick visuals for design reviews and client presentations
SketchUp Compatibility
SketchUp 2024, SketchUp 2023, SketchUp 2022
Operating System Compatibility
Windows, Mac
Supported Languages
English, Spanish, French, Italian, Brazilian Portuguese, German, Dutch, Polish, Japanese, Simplified Chinese
Pricing
Listing Page
27. V-Ray Material Converter
Category
Interior Design, Architecture, Rendering
Plugin Objective
Convert SketchUp materials for seamless use in V-Ray.
Use Cases
Convert native SketchUp materials into V-Ray compatible materials for consistent rendering results
Clean up and prepare SketchUp files for smoother V-Ray rendering workflows
SketchUp Compatibility
SketchUp 2024, SketchUp 2023, SketchUp 2022, SketchUp 2021, SketchUp 2020
Operating System Compatibility
Windows
Supported Languages
English
Pricing
Free
28. 3D Bazaar
Category
Import & Export, Architecture, Landscape Architecture
Plugin Objective
Provide access to a marketplace of high-quality, render-ready SketchUp assets.
Use Cases
Access a library of high-quality, render-ready 3D assets directly inside SketchUp
Import furniture, vegetation, and objects without manual file management
Use assets across different rendering engines with consistent quality
Build and manage a local asset library for faster project setup
Speed up visualization workflows by reusing ready-made SketchUp components
SketchUp Compatibility
SketchUp 2026, SketchUp 2025, SketchUp 2024, SketchUp 2023, SketchUp 2022
Operating System Compatibility
Windows, Mac
Supported Languages
English
Pricing
Free
29. 1001bit Tools
Category
Productivity
Plugin Objective
Offer a collection of tools for fast architectural element creation.
Use Cases
Creating stairs, windows, and doors
Generating roofs and wall openings
Performing architectural drafting tasks
SketchUp Compatibility
SketchUp 2015, SketchUp 2014, SketchUp 2013, SketchUp 8, SketchUp 7
Operating System Compatibility
Windows, Mac
Supported Languages
English
Pricing
Free
30. Profile Builder 3
Category
Productivity, Drawing Tools, Architecture
Plugin Objective
Enable parametric modeling and BIM-style workflows inside SketchUp.
Use Cases
Creating parametric profiles and assemblies
Using smart extrusion tools
Adapting models to design changes
SketchUp Compatibility
SketchUp 2026, SketchUp 2025, SketchUp 2024, SketchUp 2023, SketchUp 2022
Operating System Compatibility
Windows, Mac
Supported Languages
Brazilian Portuguese, Traditional Chinese, Dutch, French, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Russian, Spanish, German, English
Pricing
Free
31. Curic Section
Category
Drawing Tools, Architecture, Interior Design
Plugin Objective
Create section drawings quickly with fills, patterns, and materials.
Use Cases
Generating section fills with textures and hatches
Creating section scenes for LayOut
Exporting section drawings to DXF
SketchUp Compatibility
SketchUp 2019, SketchUp 2018, SketchUp 2017
Operating System Compatibility
Windows, Mac
Supported Languages
English
Pricing
Listing Page
32. CleanUp³
Category
Productivity
Plugin Objective
Clean and optimize SketchUp models by removing unnecessary geometry and data.
Use Cases
Remove unused geometry, components, and materials to reduce file size
Fix common modeling issues such as split edges and duplicate faces
Optimize SketchUp models for improved performance and stability
SketchUp Compatibility
SketchUp 2026, SketchUp 2025, SketchUp 2024, SketchUp 2023, SketchUp 2022
Operating System Compatibility
Windows, Mac
Supported Languages
English
Pricing
Free
33. Skimp
Category
Landscape Architecture, Interior Design, Import & Export
Plugin Objective
Reduce polygon count and import high-poly models efficiently.
Use Cases
Reduce polygon count of heavy SketchUp models to improve performance
Import large, high-poly 3D files efficiently without slowing down SketchUp
Optimize complex geometry for smoother modeling, rendering, and navigation
SketchUp Compatibility
SketchUp 2026, SketchUp 2025, SketchUp 2024, SketchUp 2023, SketchUp 2022
Operating System Compatibility
Windows, Mac
Supported Languages
English
Pricing
Free
34. RoundCorner
Category
Drawing Tools
Plugin Objective
Round, bevel, or sharpen edges and corners of 3D shapes.
Use Cases
Creating rounded edges
Beveling corners
Handling non-orthogonal geometry
SketchUp Compatibility
SketchUp 2021, SketchUp 2020, SketchUp 2019, SketchUp 2018, SketchUp 2017
Operating System Compatibility
Windows, Mac
Supported Languages
English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Simplified Chinese
Pricing
Listing Page
35. ThruPaint
Category
Drawing Tools
Plugin Objective
Extend the native SketchUp Paint tool with advanced texturing features.
Use Cases
Painting across groups and components
Editing UV mapping without changing materials
Applying projected or natural UV textures
SketchUp Compatibility
SketchUp 2021, SketchUp 2020, SketchUp 2019, SketchUp 2018, SketchUp 2017
Operating System Compatibility
Windows, Mac
Supported Languages
English, French
Pricing
Listing Page
36. Bevel
Category
Drawing Tools, Woodworking, Rendering
Plugin Objective
Create fillets, chamfers, and bevels using non-destructive workflows.
Use Cases
Create fillets, chamfers, and beveled edges using non-destructive workflows.
Refine and soften geometry edges for cleaner modeling and rendering results.
SketchUp Compatibility
SketchUp 2026, SketchUp 2025, SketchUp 2024, SketchUp 2023, SketchUp 2022
Operating System Compatibility
Windows, Mac
Supported Languages
English, Spanish, Italian, Polish, Simplified Chinese, French, Brazilian Portuguese, Japanese
Pricing
Free
37. TrueBend
Category
Productivity
Plugin Objective
Bend component instances while preserving original length.
Use Cases
Bending repeated components
Controlling bend angle and segmentation
Adjusting curved geometry precisely
SketchUp Compatibility
SketchUp 2026, SketchUp 2025, SketchUp 2024, SketchUp 2023, SketchUp 2022
Operating System Compatibility
Windows, Mac
Supported Languages
English
Pricing
Free
38. Thea Render for SketchUp
Category
Rendering, Architecture, Interior Design
Plugin Objective
Provide physically-based rendering directly inside SketchUp.
Use Cases
Create physically accurate, photorealistic renders directly from SketchUp models
Use interactive and unbiased render modes to preview lighting and materials in real time
Produce high-quality interior and exterior visualizations with detailed materials
Generate final-grade images for presentations, marketing, and client approvals
SketchUp Compatibility
SketchUp 2026, SketchUp 2025, SketchUp 2024, SketchUp 2023, SketchUp 2022
Operating System Compatibility
Windows, Mac
Supported Languages
German, English, Spanish, French, Italian, Korean, Japanese, Simplified Chinese, Brazilian Portuguese
Pricing
Listing Page
39. MAJ FollowMe
Category
Architecture, 3D Printing, Interior Design
Plugin Objective
Create, manage, and place custom profiles interactively.
Use Cases
Create and place custom profiles interactively along paths using mouse control
Manage reusable profile libraries for consistent modeling workflows
Apply and edit materials directly on profiles during extrusion
Speed up detailed architectural and interior modeling without manual Follow Me operations
SketchUp Compatibility
SketchUp 2026, SketchUp 2025, SketchUp 2024, SketchUp 2023, SketchUp 2022
Operating System Compatibility
Windows, Mac
Supported Languages
German, English, Spanish, French, Italian, Simplified Chinese
Pricing
Free
40. CLF Shape Bender
Category
Drawing Tools
Plugin Objective
Bend groups or components to match an existing curve.
Use Cases
Bend groups or components to follow existing curves in SketchUp
Adapt straight geometry to curved paths without rebuilding the model
Adjust architectural and structural elements quickly during design iterations
SketchUp Compatibility
SketchUp 2018, SketchUp 2017, SketchUp 2016, SketchUp 2015, SketchUp 2014
Operating System Compatibility
Windows, Mac
Supported Languages
English
Pricing
Free
Key Takeaways
SketchUp plugins now support the full design pipeline, from concept design and AI-assisted ideation to analysis, detailing, rendering, and presentation.
AI-driven plugins like AI Render and AI Assistant are becoming core tools, integrating AI into everyday modeling, visualization, and decision-making workflows.
Productivity-focused extensions dominate, helping eliminate repetitive tasks such as model cleanup, extension migration, and view management.
Rendering and visualization remain major use cases, supported by real-time engines and offline renderers that strengthen client communication.
Architectural analysis is increasingly accessible through daylight, solar, and space-planning plugins that enable early performance evaluation inside SketchUp.
Parametric and non-destructive modeling tools allow faster iteration while preserving modeling history and design flexibility.
Most high-impact SketchUp plugins are free, lowering the barrier to advanced workflows.
Plugin compatibility still matters, as not all extensions support the latest SketchUp versions.
The right plugin stack replaces multiple tools, allowing SketchUp to act as a lightweight yet powerful alternative to heavier analysis, visualization, and BIM softwares for many workflows.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is SketchUp?
SketchUp is a 3D modeling software used by architects, designers, and visualization professionals to create, edit, and present spatial designs, from early concepts to detailed models and presentations.
Are these SketchUp plugins suitable for professional architectural workflows?
Yes. These SketchUp plugins are widely used in professional architectural, interior design, landscape, and visualization workflows, supporting tasks from concept modeling to presentation and analysis.
Do I need a paid SketchUp subscription to use these plugins?
Most SketchUp extensions require an active SketchUp installation, while advanced features such as AI-powered rendering and object generation often require SketchUp Pro, Studio, or Go subscriptions.
Are AI-based SketchUp plugins reliable for production-level design work?
AI-powered SketchUp plugins are best suited for early-stage design, concept visualization, and rapid iteration. Generated outputs should always be reviewed before being used in detailed or construction-ready models.
Can SketchUp plugins replace external rendering and visualization software?
For concept design and mid-stage visualization, many rendering and real-time visualization plugins can reduce dependency on external software. Final photorealistic renders may still require dedicated render engines.
Are free SketchUp plugins enough to build an efficient modeling workflow?
Yes. Many essential SketchUp plugins for modeling speed, cleanup, parametric design, and visualization are free and sufficient for most architectural and design workflows.
Do all SketchUp plugins support the latest SketchUp versions?
No. SketchUp plugin compatibility varies by developer, and some extensions support only specific SketchUp versions. Version compatibility should always be checked before installation or upgrades.
Can installing many SketchUp extensions affect performance?
Yes. Running too many extensions or heavy rendering plugins simultaneously can impact SketchUp performance. A streamlined plugin setup aligned with your workflow improves stability and speed.
Which SketchUp plugins are best for architectural analysis and performance studies?
Plugins focused on daylight analysis, solar orientation, space planning, and energy-related workflows allow designers to evaluate building performance directly inside SketchUp.
Which plugins improve modeling speed and geometric accuracy?
Productivity and parametric modeling plugins such as cleanup tools, profile-based modeling, shape generators, and deformation tools significantly improve modeling efficiency and precision.
Are these SketchUp plugins suitable for interior design and landscape architecture?
Yes. Many plugins are specifically designed for interior layouts, material testing, vegetation scattering, terrain modeling, and landscape visualization.
Do SketchUp plugins work on both Windows and macOS?
Most SketchUp extensions support both Windows and macOS, although some rendering or export plugins may be platform-specific. Operating system compatibility should always be verified.
Can multiple SketchUp plugins be used together in the same project?
Yes. Most SketchUp plugins are designed to work together, but avoiding overlapping functionality and managing extension load improves project performance.
How often are SketchUp plugins updated and maintained?
Update frequency depends on the developer. Official SketchUp and Trimble plugins are typically updated regularly, while 3rd-party extensions may follow different maintenance cycles.