The best web design software for Mac. Watch the free RapidWeaver video tutorial series RapidWeaver for Mac is a powerful and easy to use web design app that puts you back in control. Live Home 3D is a multi-platform home design software supported by iOS, Mac OS and Windows. It is a perfect designing app for the beginners, it helps you to draft detailed 2D floor plans and build the structure in 3D designs. Apart from designs, you can decorate the interior portions by optimizing the furniture arrangements. Developed by Autodesk, AutoCAD is also one of the best 3D modeling software you will find on the market. This computer-aided design software is perfect for any professional, from engineers to architects. It is allowing to make drafts, edit 2D projects and 3D models for 3D printing.
I recently wanted to buy a new work desk. However, almost every desk I saw online are either overpriced or not good enough. So, being a DIY guy, I wanted to make my own modular desk that can meet my specific requirements. Of course, I’m no professional. So, I took some help from YouTube videos and furniture design software to design the desk. If you are in the same position as me or if you are a professional and looking for good software that makes it easy to design furniture, then here are some of the best furniture design software you can try.
Read: Best Floor Plan Apps for Android and iOS
Best Furniture Design Software
1. SketchUp
SketchUp is a very user-friendly and feature-rich 3D design software. Though not a dedicated furniture design software, it is pretty good a designing the furniture. In fact, this is the software I used to design my own desk. One of the best things about SketchUp is that it is pretty minimal yet fully featured. This combination makes it quite easy to use and the learning curve is not that hard. Add to that, SketchUp has a huge 3D library which can be used to design your own furniture. Additionally, once designed, you can export the 3D models in a variety of formats like CAD and 3DS.
Of course, being software designed for professionals, all the measurements are precise. If needed, you can even try out different design variations of your current design with just a couple of clicks. Apart from Woodworking and furniture designing, you can also use SketchUp for 3D printing, construction working, interior design, etc.
Pricing: The base version of SketchUp is free but is limited in terms of features. For instance, you will not have access to the 3D library, 3D modeling options, support for 2D designs, style builder, etc. For advanced features, you need to subscribe to one of the paid plans. Depending on your use case, the subscription fee varies greatly. I recommend you check this page.
Platform support: Windows and Mac. If you want to, you can also use the browser version.
Download SketchUp
2. SolidWorks
When it comes to 3D modeling and designing, SolidWorks is one of the most popular and gives you a ton of options to design the furniture the way you want. Since SolidWorks is a CAD software, you can pretty much create any type of furniture design you want. Add to that, you can try out different materials, textures, and other 3D elements for your furniture designs.
What makes SolidWorks special is the amount of flexibility you get and the ability to use third-party software alongside or within the SolidWorks. In fact, SolidWorks has a whole catalog of partner products that tries to enhance and make it easy to create your own furniture. Of course, being a popular software, SolidWorks has a great community and some huge woodworking libraries to get you started.
As good as it is, SolidWorks is not for everyone. Compared to SketchUp, the learning curve is steep.
Pricing: As of writing this, there is no pricing information on the official website. You need to contact the developer and request a quote. Depending on what your needs are and who you are the pricing may differ.
Platform support: SolidWorks is only available for Windows.
Download SolidWorks
3. CAD Pro Furniture Design
If SolidWorks is too much for you, you can try CAD Pro Furniture Design software. Now, just like SolidWorks, CAD Pro, being a CAD software, can be used for a variety of needs. What makes CAD Pro special is that it has all the specific tools you need to design your furniture.
Features of CAD Pro include but not limited to autoshaping, drafting tools, sketch tracking, MS Office integration, a huge library of DIY projects and plans, smart dimensions, etc. All in all, if you are looking for a software that is simple to use but has all the essential features then do give CAD Pro Furniture Design a try and see how it works for you.
Pricing: CAD Pro Furniture Design is a premium only software that costs you a one-time fee of $99.95.
Platform support: CAD Pro is Windows-only software.
4. SketchList
SketchList is a purpose designed software that lets you create any type of furniture design you want. Being a purpose build software, it has almost everything a woodworker or designer needs to design good furniture. Those features include drag and drop objects, Snap-On objects, alignment tools, one-click contours, One click joints, drill hole emulation, wood types, custom materials, etc.
The greatest asset of SketchList is its ease of use and the detailed how-to articles and videos showing usage and tricks of the software.
If you are looking for a purpose-built software that is straightforward to use, then go with SketchList.
Pricing: SketchList is a premium only software that costs $149.99 per license.
The Best Graphic Design Software For Mac
Platform support: SketchList supports both Windows and macOS.
5. Woodwork for Inventor
The name says it all, doesn’t it? Woodwork for Inventor is designed by AutoDesk to specifically meet the needs of woodworkers and furniture designers. Of all the software in this list, Woodwork for Inventor has the most features for furniture designing. In fact, the software comes with some interesting features like automatic mortises and tenons, box components, automatic measurements, material generator, size calculations, etc. As a bonus, the software can also work with a CNC machine, if you have one.
Now, with all these features, it is no wonder that it is a paid product. However, the deal breaker for most might be that you need to purchase the software from the local vendor. Depending on where you live, the website will give you the details of the vendor from whom you can purchase the software. Other than that little hiccup, Woodwork for Inventor is a pretty good software to design furniture.
Price: As of writing this, the website did not list the pricing. You need to contact the local vendor to find out. You can use this link for that purpose.
Platform support: Windows only
Hope that helps. If you think I missed any of your favorite furniture design software, comment below and share them with me.
Read: Best AR Apps For iPhone Xs Max
Here’s our 15 best free & paid deck design software programs to help you create your ultimate outdoor living space.
Looking to do a DIY Deck and don’t know where to start? Check out these programs to create a unique design for your dream deck! Many of these programs will help with permitting, materials & brand selection, pricing and even quantities of material needed. Not to mention the amazing visualization tools that are included to help you see your design layout and how it will look in your backyard.
Here our the best deck design software programs we could find in 2018 listed in no particular order. If you’re looking for interior design software click here.
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1. Aztek Deck Designer (Free)
Through TimberTech, by AZEK Building Products you can find inspiration and create a 3D layout. This program has 140+ products that can be chosen from using AZEK and TimberTech’s lighting, railings, decking, accessories and anything else needed when creating an outdoor deck! They allow users to test out the software and it is available in the app store for IPads.
This program has features such as the snapshot feature, which allows you to attach your own photo. There are plenty of options from previously designed templates to showing the design in an augmented reality state.
The only real downside to this program is that is only allows the products that are part of the brand and is only available for IPads. To properly use this software is it recommended to use chrome, firefox, safari or Microsoft edge. This program is free after creating an account.
See a Aztek tutorial video here:
Website: https://timbertech.com/inspiration/deck-designer
2. SmartDraw (Paid)
SmartDraw’s Deck designer gets a 5 star rating from CNET Editors. This program allows quick dragging and dropping of elements such as boards, railings, planters and you can even add furniture.
They include graphics for elevation posts, support and surface boards, planters and flowers, hot tubs and Jacuzzis, umbrellas, patio furniture, and benches. They also have a complete landscape package that can turn a deck project into an entire backyard design.
Watch the video on how to setup a Smartdraw floorplan:
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Website: https://www.smartdraw.com/deck-design/deck-designer.htm
3. Decks.com Deck Designer (Free)
This Deck Designer software is also sponsored by TREX, therefore will use many similar features and materials. Deck Designer will allow you to drop in shapes for the deck, add multiple level and add stairs where needed.
This deck design software will get a plan to submit for permitting and create a material list for your project. To use this software, you will be required to register to create and save project. This is a free program and can be found at decks.com
Decks.com custom deck designer video:
Website: https://www.decks.com/deck-designer
4. Lowes Deck Designer + Planner (Free)
To use the Lowes designer and planner you must have Java 1.4 and Adobe Acrobat 3.0+, no worries if you do not, it will allow them to download.
Graphic Design Software 2020
Once downloaded you will be prompted to either start from scratch or to start with one of the pre-designed decks that are previously loaded. From there you can design your dream deck with planks, railings, stairs etc. This is a free program.
Build a deck design and layout video:
Website: https://www.lowes.com/cd_Deck+Designer+Planner_733683095_
5. The Home Depot: Do-it-Yourself Deck Designer
The home depot offers a wide variety of “Do-it-yourself” tools which means they have some experience in this department. This program starts you off with over 70 built in templates to help get started. The program will then print out a list of all the items you will need for the entire project including the price you will pay for supplies and materials.
To run this program you will need Windows system with Intel 17 Quad Core CPU, 4GB of available Hard Drive Space, and internet connection. This is a free program powered by Edgenet outdoor projects.
Home Depot’s free deck design software video:
Website: http://homedepot.bighammer.com/cqdesignstartneo/
6. SketchUp & Sketchup Pro (Free & Paid)
Sketchup is commonly used in educational and professional settings. Sketchup is available in a free version and a pro (paid) version. The free version is available in a web browser. This will allow the user to draw, push and pull extrusions, orbit the screen and add colors and objects. The free version is available at app.sketchup.com where you can immediately start sketching. It also has features that allow collaboration and sharing qualities. This can be used to leave replies and comments or assign tasks to others as well as seeing a history of changes made.
Sketchup Pro has even more features and even a free trial version of that. Pro can be used on Windows or MAC operating systems. Pro requires 3D class video graphics by NVDIA or AMD, they do not recommend Intel based graphics just yet but are working to include that. Sketchup Pro can create endless drawings, including scaled drawings, sealed drawings, presentation documents, walkthroughs, as well as having them be highly accurate and detailed.
Sketchup Pro can be purchased for $695. There are also options for upgrades, renewals, and discounts for educational licenses.
Watch the building a deck with Sketchup Pro video:
Website: https://www.sketchup.com/buy/sketchup-pro
7. MoistureShield Dream Deck Designer (Free)
Moisture Shield Dream Deck Designer is another program that is quick and easy to use and will allow you to print a list of the materials needed for the designed project. The software will be a tool in creating and saving multiple designs if you are unsure the best choice, it also will let you choice the size, shape, and color of the deck.
You can also place the deck on an image of your home to see the true impact of adding a deck. This program is only available in windows, a minimum of 64 MB of memory, Java, Javascript, and Adobe Reader 5.0 or better.
Website: http://www.moistureshield.com/deck-design-tools/design-a-deck/
8. Menards Deck Estimator (Free)
Menards Deck Estimater will allow you to create your dream backyard in 3D on any computer or in any Menards store. This program will create a list of materials needed for your backyard project. This is an online software and will require a Java application, which can be downloaded on the site listed later.
Menards Design it Center Deck Estimator is a free program.
Website: https://www.menards.com/main/menu12/design-it-center/deck-estimator/c-13779.htm
Design Programs For Mac
9. Punch! Landscaping Design (Paid)
Punch! Landscape Deck and Patio version 20 can be used to create and design outdoor living spaces with a complete set of tools to plan, design, and visualize the desired space. This program has some new features including high quality rendering for 2D geometry and text, customizable drawing styles, the ability to import and export from AUTOCAD 2018, custom rich text options and a modify tool bar.
This software requires 1GB of RAM and 3GB of haard disk space. Internet service is required to use the program. Punch! Landscaping software will run you about $39.99.
Website: https://www.punchsoftware.com/punch-landscape-deck-patio-v20-download-windows
10. Home Designer Landscaping Software by Chief Architect (Paid)
Chief Architect is one of the leading developers and publishers of 3D Architectural home design, and have also developed a software for landscape design that is just as up to par. This is often used by architects, interior designers, landscape designer and home designers, even DIYers. As this is a large program it requires a PC or Mac with at least 4GB of memory and 5 GB of available hard disk space as well as internet access.
This program can be rented for $49/mo and can be found at https://www.homedesignersoftware.com. This program is also available as a trial version as well as for purchase. Prices range depending on which version you choose Pro being $495.00.
Decks and Landscaping can be done in the versions Suite, Architectural and Professional, professional and architectural being rated better. https://www.homedesignersoftware.com/products/product-chooser.html is a good reference for deciding which program best works for you, detailing features that are available per each version of the program.
Website: https://www.homedesignersoftware.com
11. Idea Spectrum (Paid)
Idea Spectrum is an easy to use program that the Architect version will create 3D landscape designs, design over a photo of your current landscape, add water features (pools ponds, waterfalls) and create landscape plans as well as CAD drawings and includes 17,000 design items.
Other features (but are not limited too) that all versions have access to are: pre-built pools and spas, 15 national brands, ability to import sketchup models, designing single and multistory decks and adding patios, retaining walls and edging. By far one of the programs with the most opportunity.
This is a free trial or paid version that can be found at https://www.ideaspectrum.com/. The Architect 2018 software will cost $399.95, Pro $99.95 and Plus $79.95. This will be a one time purchase, with future upgrades usually being available for a discount.
Watch the Idea Spectrum Realtime Landscaping Architect video:
Website: https://www.ideaspectrum.com/
12. Planner 5D (Free & Paid)
Planner 5D is a versatile program that can be used to design backyard decks as well as patios, landscaping and other areas within the home. The program itself offers the ability to design in 2D and then see your work in full 3D for a complete picture of how the design will look.
There is also a large database of user created designs for ideas and inspiration. The app can be downloaded to your device via Apple Store or Google Play.
Website: https://planner5d.com/?prcode=53ca04
13. TREX Deck Designer (Free)
TREX is a designer tool that is available in both desktop version as well as a mobile app. This will create easier access and more options for users to use. To use either of these tools you will, choose deck dimensions and railings, then pick out TREX materials and finishes. The system then makes you a list of the items you will need. This program also has a section for ordering sample boards to help make sure you get exactly what you want!
The only con of this tool is as most others the only materials and finishes loaded into the project are TREX brand, which can cut down the options. To run the desktop version you must be using a windows operating system. Also required is adobe reader 5.0 or higher, Java 6 update 10, Javascript, and a 3D capable graphics card with a minimum of 64 GB of Memory. This program is free and can be found at
Website: https://www.trex.com/build-your-deck/envision-your-deck/
14. Fiberon Deck Designer (Free)
This program includes easy drag and clip options to create a quick and easy custom deck that will allow you to add color materials to the 3D drawing.They offer a gallery of deck plans, a contractor gallery and product gallery to help with your design ideas.
Fiberon tool will produce 3D deck design, installation checklist, and a list of local retailer and contractors near you. This is a free program. You can also download a free deck planning guide with information including deck design options, materials needed and budgeting.
Watch the video on using the Fiberon deck planning tool:
Website: https://www.fiberondecking.com/design-tools/deck-design-tool
15. MiTek Deck Designer (Free)
This deck design software program is easy and fully customizable. MiTek Deck Designer will allow you to add multiple levels, plank direction, size and color, plus many other options. At the end you will be provided with printouts of required materials, cut lists as well as permit submission.
This program does not require any added plug ins and can be saved as a CDV file. This is a free online program
Website: http://tools.diyonline.com/servlet/GIB_Base/usp_startpage.html
Bonus Pick: Simpson Strong-tie Deck Planner (Free)
This simple program will allow you to complete deck designs quickly. It is an easy to use program as well as completely web based to avoid large downloads. The program allows you to design a deck, and then from there print the materials list and permits.
Deck Planner will give recommendations and allows you to see the materials you wish to use for the deck. This program is available on Mac or windows operating systems, and must have a graphics card with at least 64 MB of memory. This is a free program.
Here’s a video detailing the Simpson deck planning software in action:
https://interiorsgol.netlify.app/scansnap-s300m-new-software-for-mac.html. Website: https://www.strongtie.com/products/go/software/deckplanner
What is the Best Deck Design Software Program?
After reviewing the attributes of each of these software programs one of the biggest factors of deciding which works for you is what you need it for. If you are just planning on completing one deck project for a residential, personal back yard, one of the free software programs offered by one of the big general home construction brands will probably work best for you.
These deck design software programs tend to be more structured to individuals with a little less of a background on designing and building things. This will mean that the software will require less manual work and will be quicker and easier for users, but that takes away a little of the customization, and directions that you can go into.
Best Deck Design Software For The Mac
Two of the most popular standout programs are Smartdraw and Sketchup, while Planner5D is versatile for designing not only decks, but backyard landscaping and patios as well.
For architects, or professional deck builders, the programs that are paid to use or paid by subscription will be better utilized. These will give experienced users access to more customization and options to complete many different projects including deck design. Often the paid versions are used by people who will be designing decks, patios and even landscapes in a professional capacity.
What Is The Best Design Software For Mac
As you notice in the descriptions get more advanced and have more loaded I features, the price goes up. Even some professionals will not need all the possible features, which is why some programs offer different levels at different pricing, to further cater to the individual and individual’s projects. Big or small, any project can be tackled quick and easy with the help of computer aided design and these ones in particular are the top of the market and worth checking out.
The Best Home Design Software For Mac
For even more design inspiration check out our gallery of backyard deck designs and ideas here.