Architectural Design Software

Easy to Use Architectural Home Design Software

With so many architectural design software programs on the market, how do you know which one is right for you? The answer lies in your needs.

Not all computer aided design (CAD) software is created equally.

Some architectural home design software programs are geared towards the do-it-yourselfer home builder looking to create fast and simple plans.

Other architectural CAD programs are aimed at meeting the needs of architects, engineers and home plan designers.

The bottom line is it is best to do your research to find out which architect design software will get the job done for you.

Check out these free architectural design software programs.

We have compiled a list of drafting and design software that you may find useful:

Punch Home Design

- A top selling home and landscape design program.

It is great for beginners because:

• It is reasonably priced (under $200)
• Relatively easy to use
• Offers lightening fast 2 dimensional and 3D capabilities
• Has drag and drop features for doors, windows, furniture and more
• Contains video tutorials. If you're anything like me, learning by video is the way to go.

Professional CAD users will also appreciated some of the advanced features, however we believe this software to be aimed more towards a home enthusiast.

Chief Architect - Better Homes and Gardens Home Designer Pro 7.0 - While this version does not have all the whistles and bells of the full blown Chief Architect 10, it is much cheaper (under $500) and fairly easy to use.

It is a little more advanced to use in comparison with Punch Home Design software and is recommended for intermediate CAD users, home builders and contractors.


TurboCAD - TurboCAD Pro Architectural Edition is tailored towards architects, contractors and homebuilders looking at both 2-D and 3D design capabilities.

It also contains a parametric library of architectural objects, such as stairs, doors, windows, etc. It's priced at around $1,400.

Data CAD - A good number of members in the American Institute of Architects use this architectural design program.

It has been around since the beginning of CADD development.

Pricing ranges from $300 for the Lite version of DataCAD to $1,300.


AutoCAD Architecture - For advanced users familiar with the AutoCAD software platform, this architectural design software program is fully loaded.

It is mainly used by architects and professional CAD firms to develop 2-D construction documents and 3D presentation drawings. A rendering package is included as well.

It is one of the pricier programs (mid $1000's) but it uses the industry standard drawing format, DWG.

Most of the above software vendors should also allow you to download trial versions of their software.

Be sure to do so to take it for a good test drive. It will be easier to narrow down which architectural design software will help you achieve your goals.

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