For decades, architects and engineers have been taking advantage of computer aided design (CAD) for drafting and planning beautiful homes. But for the non-professional, CAD programs often seem too technical and difficult to learn. So instead you might spend hours drawing a rudimentary sketch on graph paper, erasing what didn’t look right, redrawing, and repeating. Often!
Fortunately, now there is a wide variety of easy-to-use home design and decorating software to choose from. These programs and online tools make it fun to plan and actually envision changes to your home’s design. And you can do it all without having to move a single piece of furniture!
No software program is perfect for every project, and some are more user-friendly than others. So it’s a good idea to spend some time looking at the various options. You may find that one program is just right for helping you measure and layout big furniture items. Another may be better for your kitchen project because it has a greater variety of cabinet choices. Whatever software programs you use, you will likely find that they are an efficient tool for planning and designing your space.
If you don't want to purchase design software, how about trying some of the free online programs? They're fun to use and just may prepare you for purchasing a more powerful program.
Read our list of free online design software available and see if one of them will work for your project.
Design Workshop Lite
This is a free download suitable for "simple home design projects". If you want more, you can purchase expanded versions of the software on CD-Rom.myHouse
Download a free demo of myHouse software.Google SketchUp
Click for a free download of this powerful tool for creating, viewing, and modifying 3D ideas quickly and easily.Ladies Home Journal Furniture Arranger
You can download free programs for arranging a bedroom, home office, or living room. Select and arrange your furniture and furnishings and get expert designers’ tips and tricks for an room plan that works efficiently.See My Design
This online resource allows you to choose from a selection of paint and wall finishes, furniture styles, and flooring. See your home with various colors and decorative elements.
Read about Home Decorating and Design Software that you can buy.