Vectorworks for Set Designers: Developing Efficient and Flexible Set Designs
Vectorworks has been a trusted tool among theatrical designers for decades. Lighting designers were among the first to adopt it, drawn to its intuitive tools for drafting light plots and managing large volumes of data. Scenic designers soon followed, recognizing its flexibility and creative potential
This class will guide you through the workflow of creating a set design using Vectorworks. We’ll use the example of a play staged in a traditional proscenium theater. We'll begin with the initial conceptual design and progress through building a white model, eventually adding color, textures, and detail.
Using basic Spotlight and architectural tools, along with simple 3D modeling techniques, we’ll focus on developing an efficient, flexible workflow. Key topics include the strategic use of layers and classes to support design flexibility and streamline collaboration.
We’ll also explore how to structure files and workflows so that designers and assistants can work simultaneously on different aspects of the set—preserving visual consistency while generating precise construction documentation for individual elements.
Entertainment
Entertainment
2h 30m
Intermediate
Learning Objectives
Develop a flexible workflow with efficient use of classes and layers.
Easily modify surface treatments by modifying classes or using data visualization.
This on-demand class offers a comprehensive exploration of working with data in Vectorworks software, covering everything from built-in object parameters to advanced visualization and reporting techniques. Participants will start by examining the different types of native object data within the software, then progress to creating and attaching custom records for both simple and complex objects. The class will also demonstrate practical methods for viewing, managing, and presenting data using tools such as Data Visualization, Data Tags, and report generation. This class will develop your skills to structure, manage, and leverage object data effectively—ultimately boosting project efficiency, accuracy, and documentation quality.
All Industries
All Industries
2h 1m
Intermediate
Learning Objectives
Identify and utilize existing object data – Recognize different types of default object data, including 2D, hybrid, and complex objects, and navigate the Object Info Palette (OIP) and Resource Manager to explore attached records.
Create and attach custom records to objects – Develop and apply custom records to objects, incorporating various field types such as boolean values, text fields, and dropdown lists, and attach them using conventional methods.
Visualize and report data on drawings – Utilize Data Visualization and Data Tags to display object data within drawings, and generate both preformatted and custom reports for project documentation.
Unlock efficient, organized workflows for professional landscape design in this comprehensive on-demand course. Learn to establish a robust file structure and create reliable base files—laying the foundation for thorough project analysis, design, and development.
This paid class offers practical guidance on developing and using template files for landscape design in Vectorworks, equipping both individual designers and collaborative teams to work more efficiently and consistently. Discover best practices for document setup, including georeferenced workflows that facilitate seamless collaboration with others using real-world coordinate systems, and maximize the power of Vectorworks' suite of GIS features.
You’ll also learn how to identify, manage, and employ the most effective data types for site model creation, ensuring your documents remain organized from the outset and ready to handle external references. By mastering these workflows, you’ll gain the confidence to streamline your document management and establish a solid project base file for every new landscape design project.
Landscapes
Landscapes
2h 45m
Intermediate
Learning Objectives
Establish template and documentation standards for organizing Design Layers and Class structures tailored to landscape design projects.
Configure project files for effective georeferenced workflows, ensuring seamless integration with real-world coordinate systems and collaborative environments.
Implement efficient processes for managing and integrating external documentation, including various file types and reference materials.
Select and apply appropriate data formats to streamline site model creation and enhance overall project accuracy and scope.
Vectorworks for Lighting Designers: Crafting Effective Light Plots
Vectorworks has been used by Broadway lighting designers for decades. Its tools and functionality make Spotlight the industry standard. In this 3-hour live online class, we’ll cover the basics of creating a light plot. During the design process, we’ll use Vectorworks Spotlight’s tools to correctly insert and focus lighting devices, allowing us to see an accurate representation of beams and angles. Putting on our electrician's hat, we’ll add channel and DMX addressing. By the end of the class, you will have a full set of production documents, including light plots and sections, equipment counts, instrument schedules and hookups, and even rendered images.
Entertainment
Entertainment
3h
Intermediate
Learning Objectives
Insert and focus theatrical lights accurately in 3D space.
Input and display lighting data, both on the plot and through instrument schedules.
Design and document complex assemblies using the Door and Window Assembly tool. Combine any mix of doors, windows, symbols, panels, and wall infills into a single assembly that can be styled and used across your project. With real-time editing, flexible layouts, and detailed reporting, you’ll deliver accurate, creative designs faster than ever before. Discover how to get started with this video.
Buildings
Buildings
18m
Intermediate
Learning Objectives
Explore the door and window assemblies functionality
Take the guesswork out of compliance with the all-new Sustainability Dashboard. Track embodied carbon at a glance—all updated in real time as you design. Stay ahead of regulations and avoid late-stage revisions, empowering you to deliver smarter, greener projects from the very first draft. Discover how to get started with this video.
Buildings/Landscapes
Buildings/Landscapes
20m
Advanced
Learning Objectives
Explore the Embodied Carbon Calculator of the Sustainability Dashboard
Design any LED video wall shape you can imagine – flat, curved, and 3D – with the all-new LED Wall tool. Instantly place and plan panels, calculate power and data needs, and generate detailed reports covering size, resolution, and required equipment. Deliver flawless, fully documented installations or permanent displays faster, with complete freedom and confidence in every project. Discover how to get started with this video.
Entertainment
Entertainment
10m
Beginner
Learning Objectives
Get started with the new LED Video Wall feature release with Vectorworks Spotlight 2026.
Design any LED video wall shape you can imagine – flat, curved, and 3D – with the all-new LED Wall tool. Instantly place and plan panels, calculate power and data needs, and generate detailed reports covering size, resolution, and required equipment. Deliver flawless, fully documented installations or permanent displays faster, with complete freedom and confidence in every project. Explore the Settings and styles in this video.
Lay out and customize even the largest worksheets with a ribbon-style toolbar. Split your data into neatly linked slices that fit your print areas, pin headers for easy navigation, and enjoy a fresh, streamlined interface. With less time spent on manual formatting, you’ll be able to provide accurate documentation with ease. Discover how to get started with this video.
Sustainability Dashboard: Biodiversity Net Gain Calculator
Stay on top of your project’s sustainability goals with the new Sustainability Dashboard. Easily monitor Biodiversity Net Gain as your design takes shape. Get live feedback on every change, streamlining compliance and empowering you to deliver smarter, greener projects from the very first draft. Discover how to get started with this video.
Landscapes
Landscapes
10m
Advanced
Learning Objectives
Explore the Biodiversity Net Gain Section of the Sustainability Dashboard
Sustainability Dashboard: SITES Biomass Density Index
Take the guesswork out of compliance with the all-new Sustainability Dashboard. Track biomass density at a glance—all updated in real time as you design. Stay ahead of regulations and avoid late-stage revisions, empowering you to deliver smarter, greener projects from the very first draft. Discover how to get started with this video.
Landscapes
Landscapes
6m
Advanced
Learning Objectives
Explore the SITES Biomass Density Index Section of the Sustainability Dashboard
Stay on top of your project’s sustainability goals with the new Sustainability Dashboard. Easily monitor urban greening factor as your design takes shape. Get live feedback on every change, streamlining compliance and empowering you to deliver smarter, greener projects from the very first draft. Discover how to get started with this video.
Landscapes
Landscapes
6m
Advanced
Learning Objectives
Explore the Embodied Carbon Calculator of the Sustainability Dashboard
