Home drafting software

You'll need to make sure that the app you're considering works on the kind of computer you have. Most of the apps here, but not all of them, are available for both Windows and Mac — but some aren't, and some others charge more for the Mac version than they do for the Windows one.

If you do want 3D, are you okay with static 3D images or do you want to create virtual walkthroughs where you can move around your building as if you were playing a video game? Object libraries Are you going to be designing empty spaces or will you want to fill them with furniture and photo frames? Some home design apps concentrate just on the actual buildings, but many come with libraries containing hundreds or even thousands of objects that you can drag and drop into your creations.

Some libraries also include extensive ranges of textures such as floors, stone and even paint that you can use to make your 3D models look more realistic. Export options Will you be creating plans and then sending them electronically to your architect or contractor?

If so, find out what formats they can handle and make sure your chosen app can export in those formats. When you ask home design professionals about their chosen app, you tend to get the same answer: AutoCAD. It's been the industry standard for designers since the earliest days of computer-aided design, and it's continually evolved to take advantage of ever-better hardware.

Fans of the hit show Fixer Upper will be desperate to know which software Joanna Gaines uses to layout her designs before the renovations begin. The home design software in question is in fact SketchUp Pro , which is the rather pricey professional version of the free SketchUp program. If your budget can't quite stretch to that, many of the apps here can generate 3D walkthroughs for considerably less money.

Finally, you might be interest in our 10 top tips for smart home design. Carrie Marshall is a freelance writer and podcaster based in Glasgow in the UK. Jump to: Home design FAQ. View Deal On This program earned the top spot in our round-up of the best home design software. Virtual Architect Ultimate Home Design. A superb all-rounder that includes every feature you could conceivably need.

Reasons to avoid - A little pricier than rivals. Home Designer Pro. A meticulously detailed program perfect for extensive customization and vivid renderings.

Reasons to avoid - Seriously pricey - Not the most intuitive. Reasons to avoid - Slightly limited compared to pro version. Perfect for keeping up with the latest trends and super easy to use. Sweet Home 3D 6. Reasons to avoid - Limited features - A little clunky-looking. Chief Architect Interiors is ideal for kitchens, baths, and interior design—everything inside the house. Framing and exterior tools such as terrain are excluded from Chief Architect Interiors.

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Measure content performance. Develop and improve products. List of Partners vendors. By Rajat Sharma. Rajat Sharma. Fact checked by Elizabeth Brownfield. Tweet Share Email. Software Apps. Buy on Sketchup. Buy on Homedesignersoftware. Home Designer Pro Review. Buy on Sweethome3d. Sweet Home 3D Review. Buy on Individualsoftware. Buy on Spacedesigner3d. Buy on Homestyler. Buy on Chiefarchitect. What to Look for in Home Design Software Object library - The best home design software packages include libraries of free objects, like furniture and fixtures, that number in the thousands.

Was this page helpful? Thanks for letting us know! Email Address Sign up There was an error. Please try again. You get thousands of ready-made home design symbols for everything from furniture to bathroom and kitchen fixtures.

CAD Pro is a leading developer and publisher of easy house drafting software for builders, remodelers, architects and DIY home enthusiasts. Create professional quality home designs and remodeling plans with the ultimate computer-aided design software. CAD Pro software will assist you in all types of drafting diagrams and plans without difficult CAD technology experience. It provides lots of drawing tools, including dimensioning, wall, door, window and structure, appliances, furniture, cabinets, and the creation of custom symbols.