The exterior design of a home is just as important as the interior. This is especially true for tiny houses and other small spaces. Since every beautiful and functional home begins with a good plan, the first step is to find the best exterior home design software.
How to Choose the Optimal Exterior Home Design Tool?
The market is flooded with design software choices, but not all of them offer the same level of accessibility, ease of use, and effective features.
Consider the following factors when making your decision:
Affordability
While software costs are typically lower than hiring professional design and engineering services, not all options are equally affordable or provide equivalent value. Opting for the lowest-cost software may not be the best choice. Look for options with free trials to assess user-friendliness and features, ensuring they meet your project’s needs.
Learning Curve
Unless you have a design or engineering expert on your team, prioritize user-friendliness. A steep learning curve can limit your design capabilities and prolong the time needed to complete a project. Choose software that is intuitive and easy to navigate.
Functionality
The features and functionalities you require depend on the nature of your projects. While there are numerous interior design software options, only a few cater to exterior home design. Create a list of essential features before starting your search, and compare them with what each software offers.
Support
No software is without challenges, so selecting an option with robust support is crucial. Without proper support, you might face delays and spend valuable time searching the internet for solutions. Software with reliable support ensures you receive prompt assistance, enhancing your overall experience.
The Best Exterior Home Design Tools
1. Cedreo:
Overview: The most user-friendly and functional design software catering to both professionals and beginners.
Features: Project-ready blueprints, 2D layouts, 3D floorplans, and photorealistic renderings.
Key Highlights: Free version available, intuitive design, advanced functionalities, comprehensive support.
Pricing: Various plans to suit different needs.
2. Floorplanner:
Overview: Interior design-focused with additional functionality for exterior projects.
Features: Wide range of furnishing options, 8K renderings.
Key Highlights: Free version with limitations, suitable for various professionals.
Pricing: Tiered memberships with varying features.
3. ProVia Exterior Design Center:
Overview: Web-based platform for aesthetic home exterior design.
Features: Free to use, product purchase integration, simple drag-and-drop interface.
Key Highlights: Ideal for early-stage design decisions, support via email.
Access: Free access via desktop or app.
4. Sweet Home 3D:
Overview: Basic 2D home planning software for both interior and exterior design.
Features: Completely free, simple functionalities.
Key Highlights: Beginner-friendly, support gallery.
Access: Download for free.
6. HomeByMe:
Overview: Design software for 2D floorplans and 3D visualizations of interior and exterior spaces.
Features: Free and affordable versions, good variety of features.
Key Highlights: Ideal for homeowners and hobbyists, unique design services.
Pricing: Affordable plans for different user needs.
7. DreamPlan:
Overview: Free exterior and interior design software for noncommercial use.
Features: Easy to use, landscaping, pool, patio, and deck design.
Key Highlights: Designed for beginners, free for noncommercial use.
Access: Free download.
SketchUp:
Overview: Professional exterior home design software for designers and architects.
Features: Robust tools, 3D modeling, advanced customization.
Key Highlights: Suitable for professionals with design and engineering experience.
Pricing: Various commercial plans with different access levels.
Choosing the right software depends on your project’s nature. Cedreo stands out for its user-friendliness and professional capabilities, making it the top choice for accurate and efficient exterior home design. Sign up for Cedreo’s free version to experience its features firsthand.
