Archicad Language Pack Info

The Complete Guide to Archicad Language Packs and Localization

Managing languages in Archicad is often misunderstood because, unlike many modern applications, the software does not use a simple toggle to switch its entire user interface. Instead, Graphisoft employs a system of localized versions and specific library packs to support its global user base. What is an Archicad Language Pack?

An "Archicad Language Pack" typically refers to two distinct things:

Localized Software Versions: Comprehensive translations of the entire interface, including menus, dialog boxes, documentation, and help files.

Global Library Packs (Archicad 28+): Specific library packages (.libpack) that contain translated object names and parameters for the standard Archicad library. Why You Can't Simply "Change" Languages

In Archicad, the language is deeply embedded into the program structure. You cannot change the interface from Russian to English or Spanish to German through a settings menu. To use the software in a different language, you must install the specific localized version from the Graphisoft Downloads page . How to Install a New Language Version archicad language pack

If you need Archicad in a different language than your current installation, follow these steps:

Unable to change the language in Archicad? - Graphisoft Support Site

In Archicad, there is no single "language pack" you can toggle on or off to change the entire user interface. Instead, the language is deeply embedded in the program's structure

. To change your working environment from one language to another, you must download and install the specific localized version of the software. However, with the introduction of the Global Library

in Archicad 28 and 29, managing different languages within your project objects has become much simpler. 1. The Traditional Way: Installing Localized Versions The Complete Guide to Archicad Language Packs and

If you want the menus, toolbars, and dialog boxes to be in a different language, you must install a separate instance of Archicad. Separate Installations

: You can have multiple language versions (e.g., INT and GER) on the same machine. Installation Tip

: To avoid errors, install each version in its own uniquely named folder, such as Archicad 29 INT Archicad 29 GER License Limitations

: Your license typically dictates which localized versions you can run. For example, a Polish license may not support an International (INT) version. Where to Download : Official versions are available on the Graphisoft Downloads page 2. The New Way: Archicad Global Library (AC 28+)

Starting with version 28, Archicad moved from "monolithic" libraries (fixed to one language) to a Global Library Visit the Graphisoft Downloads page

system. This system decouples the language of your objects from the language of your software. Unable to change the language in Archicad? – Support site

Troubleshooting

Step 1: The Download

Historically, users had to hunt for language packs on the Graphisoft download page. Today, most language packs are included in the main installer, or they can be added via the Graphisoft License Manager or the Options > Work Environment menu.

If your specific language isn't installed:

  1. Visit the Graphisoft Downloads page.
  2. Select your version of Archicad.
  3. Look for the "Language Packs" section.
  4. Download the installer for your desired language.

Best Practices for Multi-Language Firms

If you are managing a BIM server with users from different linguistic backgrounds, here are three tips to keep the peace:

  1. Standardize Project Attributes, Allow Personal Interfaces: Enforce a rule that all Building Materials, Surfaces, and Zone names must be in the project's "official" language (e.g., English). This prevents Attribute chaos. However, allow individual team members to use the language pack of their choice for their UI.
  2. Layer Names: Be careful with Layer names. It is highly recommended to keep Layer names standardized in one language for the project. If you translate the interface but your layers are named "Möbel" (Furniture) or "Wände" (Walls), an English-speaking user will have a hard time understanding the layer structure.
  3. Template Management: Maintain separate template files (.tpl) for each major language group in your office. A French template with French attributes + a French language pack = a smooth workflow. Trying to force one template to serve three languages usually ends in tears.

Supported Languages

Graphisoft offers Language Packs for a wide range of regions, including but not limited to:

  • English (USA & International)
  • German (Germany, Austria, Switzerland)
  • French
  • Spanish (Spain & Latin America)
  • Italian
  • Portuguese (Brazil & Portugal)
  • Japanese
  • Chinese (Simplified & Traditional)
  • Russian
  • Polish
  • Czech
  • Hungarian (Graphisoft’s home country)
  • Turkish
  • Korean