Anyone with a dream and a computer can draw floor plans, house elevations, and stunning 3D pictures using these home design software programs. The programs can't take the place of an architect and most aren't recommended for creating working drawings. They can, however, help you visualize your house and some rival the professional-grade CAD (computer aided design) software programs architects use.
1) Broderbund 3D Home Architect
Broderbund's 3D Home Design programs let you customize preset floor plans or create your own original. Want to see your vision of arched doorways leading out to the terrace? Point and click to create the shapes and lines you want. Select moldings and other details from a menu of options, and coordinate a group of room, or a whole house.
2) Punch! Home Design Series
A single, beginner-friendly interface incorporates 32 programs with powerful tools,including CAD for 3D home and landscape design. You can plan your electrical and plumbing systems, design doors and windows, create custom trim, and much more. Buy the complete software suite, or choose the programs you need the most.
3) Abracadata Design Your Own Home for Mac
If you have a Mac, your choices are limited. Abracadata's Design Your Own Home is a simple drawing program for a Macintosh operating system. The cost is sensible, but if you're looking for free, also be sure to check DesignWorkshop Lite, which is listed below.
4) Chief Architect Better Homes and Gardens Home Designer
Better Homes and Gardens Home Designer is homeowner-friendly, but it is developed by the publisher of the professional-grade design and drafting software, Chief Architect.
5) Google SketchUp
Download the free SketchUp program from Google and you can draw 3D images of your building project. After you've created your 3D image, you can print it out or upload it to a "3D Warehouse" to share with others. The Warehouse also has drawings you can add to your own 3D picture.
Manufacturer's Site
6) DesignWorkshop Lite
The cost-free DesignWorkshop Lite software program lets you build your own 3D models of architecture, landscapes, exhibits, or any kind of spatial design. For a small price, you can also order complete documentation, tutorials, and additional example building models.DesignWorkshop Lite has a dual platform for both Macintosh and Windows operating systems.
Manufacturer's Site
7) Fast Plans
If all you want to do is draw quick and easy floor plans, and you don't need fancy 3D drawings, Fast Plans will do the job.
posted by Ronald @ 2:49 AM
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