Former Autodesk Execs Raise $46M for Next-Gen Architecture Design

The Evolution of Architectural Design Software

Many architects will attest to the crucial role Autodesk’s software, notably AutoCAD and Revit, has played in their professional endeavors for decades.

A Need for Modernization

Despite their prevalence, Amar Hanspal, former co-CEO and chief product officer at Autodesk, posits that the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry continues to rely on tools originating from the 20th century when designing structures for the 21st. His new venture, Motif – described by Hanspal as a “next-generation design platform for buildings” – aims to rectify this situation.

Hanspal’s Background and Motivation

Hanspal brings extensive experience in AEC technology to this challenge. He dedicated approximately 20 years to Autodesk before co-founding Bright Machines, a manufacturing automation firm, in 2018.

After six years at Bright Machines, Hanspal sought a new undertaking, leading to the exploration of the AEC industry.

Identifying Industry Pain Points

This exploration revealed considerable dissatisfaction among architects regarding current software solutions. A significant drawback is the lack of cloud-based functionality, resulting in lengthy processing times – sometimes up to 45 minutes – for even minor modifications.

The Formation of Motif

In 2023, Hanspal collaborated with Brian Mathews, formerly the product CTO at Autodesk, to develop Motif.

Motif’s Vision

While the initial product launch is scheduled for the first half of the current year, Hanspal outlined its core features. Motif is focused on creating a platform offering a suite of cloud-native 3D computer-aided design tools, integrating elements of machine learning and artificial intelligence.

Funding and Investment

The startup has secured $46 million in funding, encompassing both seed and Series A rounds. CapitalG, Alphabet’s growth fund, spearheaded the Series A, while Redpoint Ventures led the seed round.

Market Opportunity and Challenges

CapitalG partner Jill Chase shared with TechCrunch that her research into software for architects revealed a substantial market characterized by outdated products.

She questioned the lack of disruption in the sector, discovering that migrating 3D architectural models to the cloud presents significant technical hurdles.

Building Trust and Relationships

Chase also highlighted the challenges associated with selling to this market. Establishing trust and cultivating relationships with prominent architecture firms is essential for gaining access and consideration.

Leveraging Extensive Experience

Chase expressed confidence in Hanspal and Mathews’ ability to overcome these obstacles, citing their combined 40 years of experience within the AEC software industry.

A Deliberate Development Process

Hanspal likened Motif’s development timeline to that of Figma, which remained in stealth mode for three years before its initial release.

“This is a large and ambitious undertaking that we recognize will demand considerable effort,” Hanspal stated.

Competition in the AEC Software Space

Motif is not the sole player attempting to innovate in AEC software. Other startups in the field include Snaptrude and Arcol.

Confidence in Motif’s Potential

However, Hanspal remains confident in Motif’s prospects for success.

“It necessitates a highly specialized team dedicated to tackling the complex challenges involved,” he concluded. “And we believe that team is us.”