Getting started with the Qubu Studio desktop app

Beta versions

Qubu Studio is distributed as a Beta version, which can include unstable or work-in-progress features. If you find any bugs or have a suggestions for improvements, let us know.

License

As an early adopter, you get a free license for a limited time. Need more time to test Qubu Studio? Just get in touch, we’re happy to extend your beta license.

System requirements

Ensure your device meets the minimum requirements to install and run Qubu Studio:

• Windows: 64-bit, Windows 10 or later

• macOS: macOS 13 (Ventura) or later, supports both Intel and Apple Silicon (M-series) processors

Download and install the desktop app

Visit the Studio page to download the Qubu Studio app for Windows or macOS.
If you don’t see the download links, the distribution might still be private. Reach out and we’ll help onboard your team.

Installation process on Windows

1. Double-click the qubu-studio.msi file

2. Follow the installation wizard prompts

3. Click "Finish" to complete installation

4. Launch Qubu Studio from your Start menu or desktop shortcut

Install Studio on MacOS

1. Double-click the qubu-studio.dmg file

2. When the disk image opens, drag the Qubu Studio icon to the Applications folder

3. Eject the disk image

4. Launch Qubu Studio from your Applications folder or Launchpad

Read more about Qubu Studio installation here.

Logging in

To access Qubu Studio, sign in using Google, Microsoft, or email authentication.
Login is required to validate your license and enable collaboration.

• Click Sign in with browser

• Your browser will open automatically

• Sign in or create an account

• After authentication, Qubu Studio will reopen and log you in

Interface overview

The Studio interface is organized into side panels and a central 3D canvas:

• Left panel: Set up the scene and define your targets

• 3D canvas: Visualizes generative design in real time

• Right panel: Displays performance metrics and analysis

Urban massing

The first Urban Zone stage generates for you an urban massing based on targets and 3D inputs, such as surroundings and plot boundary. Generated blobs evaluate daylight factor and direct sunlight in real time to assure buildings placed within these blobs will be aligned with norms.

Site

Set up plot's details to limit Building coverage, GBA, FAR, and set up the range of Building count.

Buildings

Define the expectation of metrics like Floors, Area, Depth, or Distance between buildings and surroundings.

Daylighting

Make sure to set up daylighting to evaluate Direct Sunlight and Direct Factor correctly in a real time.

Urban Massing

Generator works with perpendicular grid needs to set up its details. These are the grid properties required for the generative algorithms.

Site boundary

A polyline enclosing the building site.

Surroundings

3D models of existing buildings and fixed obstacles, used for distancing and daylighting optimizations.

Reports

The generated process instantly updates the reports in the right panel using the most precise metrics possible, along with indicators showing whether targets were met and if not, what are the deviations from the desired state. Metrics will become even more accurate in later design stages of Qubu Studio, where definitions of sections, floors, apartments, and more will also be generated.