What Is A Good Software For 3D Home Design

[bangkokcitylimits]

Prefer free or inexpensive software, not interiors only but whole buildings incl. roofs etc, with an easy learning curve.

It's for Windows (vista)

Thanks.

[Chaam local]

Google Sketchup is free and quite easy to learn.

[CharlieH]

here ya go : http://sketchup.google.com/download/gsu.html

[xen]

I have not tried the google sketchup but i have tried about 4 of the other :cheaper type programmes (under 200 dollars) and most were absolutly useless for both soft and hard landscape design and simple construction . Main problem is accuracy of measurement and coversion from imperial to metric for calculations of quanity if quanity is to be measured off the plan. Ended up going back to the drafting board for accuraccy Maybe an old version of autocad would be okay but the new versions , if u are considering boofleg versions have complicated registration to thrawt bootleggers , but i have read there is a new autocad programme for about 150 USD called freehand (if i remember rightly) for this level of works. I don't kow how it will be for drainage or utilities and other levels of detail.<BR><BR>Have used Viso - good for mechanical stuff but could not addapt to landsape design . Good for details th0 I never came close to mastering it. <BR><BR>I must try thr google sketchup myself.

[bbradsby]

Sketchup is the closest you'll get to free and easy 3D building modeling software for a home.

For cheap & illegal, go to MBK, pay your money & take your chances on getting a working app... but do be aware that the true 3D BIM (building modeling) apps will eat the layperson's lunch when it comes time to get up to a useful level of productivity - never mind up to speed! Middle path: SketchupPro at MBK.

Post your work in the self help housing forum when you get it going!

[H2oDunc]

My friend uses Arcicad for his drawings. very good and has a comprehensive library of fittings and finishes etc.

[bangkokcitylimits]

Thanks to all, in the meanwhile I found this free full licence special from Ashampoo they offer HomeDesigner and few other programs for free (usually this are previous versions but that's OK) from those who are interested, the code is ASH-444LW1