Home Design Software Information

Professional home design software offers even more features than the products in this review, but it is expensive and is generally used by architects. Chief Architect X1 (*est. $2,195) and Chief Architect X1 Light (*est. $1,495) are design tools that are primarily meant for residential and light commercial design professionals, but might be appropriate for a home design enthusiast who understands the amount of time necessary to learn such a product.

If you have a simple need, such as visualizing paint colors or a room layout, using a free online tool is simpler and easier than buying full-blown software. An easy-to-use Room Planner on the DIY Network website makes it simple to play around with room layout -- you can literally rearrange your furniture in minutes.

For help with choosing paint colors, the Lowe's website has a good visualization tool.

It's an excellent idea to check system requirements for software before you buy. For the products in ConsumerSearch Fast Answers, you can find that information in our Comparison Chart, accessible from the Fast Answers page in this report. For other software you may be considering, check with the manufacturer for system requirements and other specifications:

Better Homes and Gardens (Chief Architect)

Chief Architect

DIY Network room planner

Google SketchUp

HGTVBathDesign.com

HGTVKitchenDesign.com

Punch! Software