CanvasAnvil
Generate draw.io diagrams, 2D/3D floorplans, slides, and whiteboard images in an AI-powered multi-canvas workspace.
Create editable draw.io diagrams, 2D/3D interior plans, presentations, and annotated whiteboard images.
CanvasAnvil is an open-source multi-canvas application that combines diagramming, interior CAD planning, presentation generation, and whiteboard image editing. It suits technical authors, interior designers, and product teams looking to generate initial visual drafts using AI and edit them in place.
What it is
The application provides four specialized canvases: a draw.io-compatible diagram editor, an interactive 2D/3D interior floorplan designer, an outline-driven presentation builder, and an Excalidraw-based whiteboard for image generation. It connects to any OpenAI-compatible API endpoint for text models and separate image providers for visual generation.
Who it's for
It suits professionals who need structured visual outputs that export directly to standard open formats like .drawio, DXF, and PPTX. It is less suitable for users who prefer a fully managed SaaS tool without needing to configure API keys or run a Node.js server.
Key features
Draw.io Diagram Canvas Integration
Generates flowcharts and system architecture diagrams from text prompts, exporting directly into editable .drawio XML files.
Interactive Interior Floorplan Designer
Transforms design prompts into interactive 2D and 3D floorplans complete with furniture, ceiling plans, and DXF exports.
Outline Driven Presentation Generation
Builds full presentation decks through an outline confirmation workflow before rendering visual templates for PDF or PPTX exports.
Annotated Image Whiteboard Canvas
Allows you to place generated images on a whiteboard, mark up specific regions with notes, and iterate while keeping full version history.
Local Codex Skill Integration
Includes local skills that expose diagram, CAD, presentation, and whiteboard tools directly to local AI agents using MCP.
Up and running in 3 steps
Our honest verdict
What's great
- Writes directly to standard editable formats including .drawio files, DXF drawings, and PPTX decks.
- Provides structured confirmation steps before drawing floorplans and slide deck layouts.
- Preserves complete version histories when making targeted image edits on the whiteboard canvas.
- Uses standard OpenAI API protocols so you can connect any compatible LLM endpoint.
Where it falls short
- Requires self-hosting a Node.js service and managing external API provider keys and costs.
- Editable PPTX exports rely on external local tools such as LibreOffice or Microsoft PowerPoint.
- Built-in video walkthroughs and demo media are primarily presented in Chinese.
Pricing & license
CanvasAnvil is free and open-source software distributed under the MIT license. There are no software subscription fees, but you are responsible for paying the API usage costs of the LLM and image generation providers you connect.
Open remote AI-training roles
870 open remote AI-training roles, updated November 14, 2026; most pay $20–$170 an hour. Zekai lists them free; the application goes to the employer’s platform.
Alternatives
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Use it, or have us set it up
FAQ
Can I edit the generated diagrams outside of CanvasAnvil?
Yes, the diagram canvas outputs native .drawio XML files, which you can open and edit in diagrams.net or the official draw.io application.
What AI models can I use with CanvasAnvil?
You can use any AI model provider that supports the standard OpenAI HTTP protocol by setting your custom base URL and API key in the application settings.
Does CanvasAnvil require external CAD software to create floorplans?
No, the interior design canvas includes a browser-based 2D/3D floorplan designer and can export standard DXF files directly.
