Architecture Canvas

Architecture Canvas is a local tool that turns documents and chat into editable architecture diagrams.

Architecture Canvas is a local application designed to help users generate and modify architecture diagrams through chat interactions and uploaded documents. It processes various text and image files locally, reads the data, and collaborates with configured models to produce visual diagrams on an Excalidraw-based workspace. Users can review proposed changes before applying them, manually adjust component positions, and export work to SVG or PNG formats. The application runs locally using Python and Node.js dependencies, supporting custom API keys for model services without binding to a single provider. It targets developers and system designers who need a privacy-focused, document-driven diagramming assistant.

Architecture Canvas at a glance

Best for: Software engineer, Designer
Runs on: Web, self-hosted, open source
Pricing: Free and open source under Apache-2.0, running locally with user-provided model API keys.
Released: October 2026
Category: AI agent tool
Website: github.com/weike-zhang/architecture-canvas

Key features

Generate architecture diagrams from text and image documents
Preview and apply AI-suggested diagram modifications selectively
Edit elements, move nodes, and organize layouts manually
Export diagrams to SVG, PNG, and editable file formats
Backup and import entire working sessions locally
Parse multiple document formats including PDF, DOCX, and code
Integrate optional web search capabilities with Tavily keys

Use it for

Draft system architecture diagrams from technical requirement documents
Refine existing infrastructure layouts through conversational AI prompts
Export diagrams for design documentation and presentations
Analyze PDF specifications and design matching system components

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