This will greatly assist in your search for a more comfortable or chic living space. Before you talk to a contractor or architect you wonder if it is even possible to remodel. Do I have the room to alter or expand outside? Do you want a stranger to tell you what's best? What are your options?
Now do it yourself design by computer may not answer all the questions. But you can get a great head start that will lead to asking the right questions. And for those of you who know what you want, it really helps to visualize in 3D how to plan. Isn't it easier to move your furniture back and forth on the computer monitor than actually strain the back muscles?
There are architectural design programs for the non professional that are very easy and simple to use.
I recommend today's 3D design software over the two dimensional programs. The virtual option to be able to walk through your project and visualize the changes are a tremendous advantage.
I have seen this backfire on people to many times and their ideas just don't fit.
You may be very anxious to see what it will look like. But first during layout its important to place the furniture and other fixtures. Establish your traffic patterns. You don't want to spend a lot of money only to have to trip over the furniture. What improvement are you wanting for this space? Will the function of this room change? From a bedroom to an office workspace? Who will occupy this room, family, guests, clients?
It's function will tell it's patterns. Patterns tell you furniture placement. Try to factor 24 inches of clearance around tables, chairs, etc. None of this is set in stone. Save alternate schemes. This is much easier than moving the furniture.
Once you layout the floor plan, the 3D software will convert to a visual perspective as if you are standing in the room.
With a style selected it is easier to choose colors and materials. To see this in 3D is a more natural perspective from the human eye.
On a past project, are own home, my wife wanted to repaint the Entry and Living room. She wanted a bold color that really stands out. I called it Bright Pumpkin. I'm sure it was called by another name. Just one wall with a neutral color everywhere else. She picked her two colors but just bought the bold color. After painting a prominent wall she changed her mind about carrying it through to the living room. Good thing we didn't buy all the paint.
Now, with a 3D design program visualizing her ideas removes uncertainty and gives confidence, which means more future projects are in the works.
I have sat down with hundreds of clients over the years. Before 3D design software I heard "I just can't visualize it." This is when we were talking cabinets and counter tops, for example. Many times this decision wasn't made until after the walls and roof were framed.
There are many design software of various size. Free downloads that are very basic, but have a very inexpensive upgrade. Much of this upgrade is an expanded library of fixtures that offer more flexibility.
Room design software offers a virtual walk about on your desktop can save you time, money and possibilities. Make it fun.
The author is a professional building designer in California with over 32 years of experience.
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