A free tool for architects and designers, the Concept App for iPhone, originally released in 2013 by structural engineering firm, Fast + Epp, is now available on desktop.

More accessible and convenient than ever before, Concept serves as a structural engineer, allowing architects to explore the aesthetics of wood, concrete, and steel, and to determine each material’s feasibility early on. The application combines the creativity of architecture with the practicality of engineering.

Originally stemming from the architect’s desire to assess structural systems and materials feasibility before putting pencil to paper, Fast + Epp devised Concept to allow architects to calculate member depths and browse project photos for inspiration.

“Concept is free because we wanted to make it readily accessible to as many architects and designers as possible,” says Fast + Epp founder and partner, Paul Fast. “The recent availability of Concept on desktop now makes it even easier and for architects to search for materials and perform calculations on one device before the first meeting with colleagues and clients.”

Since its original release in 2013, the app has become a welcome addition to the architectural community.

“Given the digital age we are in and the propensity [architects] have to start Revit models pretty early – before structural is on board – this is a useful resource for establishing some starting criteria,” said Stephen Grim of Seattle’s award-winning Olson Kundig Architects.

Created for architects, engineers, and homebuilders, Concept builds on Fast + Epp’s goal to provide practical and holistic design solutions for iconic building projects worldwide.

Established in 1985, Fast + Epp is an internationally recognized structural engineering firm headquartered in Vancouver, B.C. with a team that prioritizes creativity and simplicity.