HighDesign R9: A Major Leap Forward in Architectural Design Software
The latest release of HighDesign, version R9, marks a significant step forward for architects and designers working on macOS and Windows platforms. With a strong focus on usability, precision, and documentation, HighDesign R9 introduces powerful new tools and meaningful refinements that elevate the design workflow. At the forefront of this release are the enhanced markup tools and PDF handling capabilities, which together transform how teams collaborate and annotate designs.
A New Standard in Design Review: Markup Meets Multi-Page PDFs
HighDesign R9 brings a completely new markup toolset that streamlines the review and annotation process. Users can now add freehand sketches, lines, rectangles, ovals, clouds, text notes and callouts directly onto any sheet. This is especially powerful when combined with the new Open PDF feature, which supports both single- and multi-page PDF documents. Architects can import a multi-page PDF and annotate each page using the new markup tools—ideal for redlining, communicating changes, or reviewing external plans without leaving the software environment.
The updated Measure tools now integrate seamlessly with markup, featuring automatic dimensioning and enhanced readability. A floating toolbar with customizable methods and a “Clear” button for active measures adds further control, while support for angular calibration ensures accurate alignment with design elements.
Smarter Walls for Smarter Buildings
One of the most architecturally significant updates in HighDesign R9 is the complete redesign of composite walls. The software now intelligently creates clean, consistent joins based on the priority, function, and material of each internal layer—an essential feature for complex building envelopes. This level of precision reduces manual cleanup, ensures accurate construction documentation, and reflects real-world material behaviors in the digital model.
Additional wall improvements include more intuitive placement of doors and windows, improved construction dimensions during insertion, and better synchronization of graphic attributes, making the design process more fluid and predictable.
Quality, Stability, and Performance at the Core
Beyond the new features, HighDesign R9 delivers a suite of performance improvements and fixes that reinforce its position as a reliable professional tool. Text input is now faster and more responsive, snapping is more precise, and UI refinements enhance readability and ease of use. Numerous functions, ranging from selection handle behavior to PDF export and undo/redo, have been boosted, resulting in a smoother and more robust experience across both macOS and Windows platforms.
You can now use viewports to create multiple views of the same drawing, such as schematics, electrical plans, proposals and demolitions, all from one drawing.
Title blocks are also easier to use and more powerful with direct on-screen attribute editing and easier customization.
Particular attention was devoted to seemingly smaller actions that are in fact very important in the regular use of HighDesign. Grids and snap to grid, selection and editing of selected objects, the Resource manager, editing commands like Extend, Join, Stretch, have all been made easier to use, more effective and accurate.
The overall user interface has been refreshed and optimised for faster loading times and responsiveness.
HighDesign R9 represents not just an update, but a comprehensive upgrade tailored to the evolving needs of architectural professionals. Whether you're annotating a multi-page PDF, designing layered wall systems, or fine-tuning technical details, this release delivers the tools and stability required to design with clarity and confidence.