Blueprints of Success


Modern sitting space with a cozy fire place made in Chief Architect.

Profile image of Danielle Schroeder By Danielle Schroeder

Meet a few of the talented individuals who are leveraging the cutting-edge design program Chief Architect Software to create stunning residential spaces. From seasoned architects to budding interior designers and everything in between, our featured users share their unique journeys, creative processes, and tips for maximizing the potential of their chosen tool. Whether you’re looking to improve your own design skills or simply seek inspiration, our users can offer valuable insights and firsthand experiences that highlight the transformative power of Chief Architect.

(more…)

How to Prepare for Chief Academy


Red umbrellas over tables of happy people

Author, Kerry Hansen By Kerry Hansen

Chief Academy is an excellent way to get inspired. Spend two and a half days learning new skills to increase your knowledge of the software. Connect with our staff, network with industry peers, test drive new products, get answers to your questions, and more. As a class participant, there are several things you can do to help prepare and ensure your success during your time at Chief Academy.

(more…)

Designing Your Dream Outdoor Kitchen: Top Things to Include


Chief Architect Rendering of outdoor pergola with outdoor kitchen that includes a grill and sink.

Profile image of Danielle Schroeder By Danielle Schroeder

Are you considering adding an outdoor kitchen to your home? Outdoor kitchens have become increasingly popular, offering a perfect blend of functionality and entertainment for outdoor living spaces. Whether you’re a culinary enthusiast or simply enjoy hosting family and friends, designing an outdoor kitchen can significantly enhance your outdoor experience. To help you create the perfect outdoor culinary oasis, here are the top things to consider when designing an outdoor kitchen along with how Chief Architect Software can aid in your design process.

(more…)

3D Plumbing & Plumbing Isometrics in Chief Architect


A 3D Plumbing and HVAC plan made in Chief Architect Software.

Phillip Gibney Profile Image by Phillip Gibney

A plumbing system is a network of pipes, fittings, fixtures, and valves that delivers water where needed throughout the home while safely removing wastewater. While often one of the more underappreciated and unnoticed parts of a house, a well-built plumbing system is critical in ensuring health and sanitation.

With potentially hundreds of feet of piping navigating through a home’s structure, envisioning how a plumbing system is built can be challenging. 3D plumbing isometrics solves this challenge by allowing designers and contractors to visualize in far greater detail how a plumbing system may come together. This can help avoid problems during construction by highlighting conflicts between the plumbing system and the home’s structural components. For example, by visualizing in 3D where the plumbing lines are running, you could easily recognize a scenario such as a floor joist interfering with the placement of a toilet flange and its respective wastewater lines. Identifying and correcting such conflicts in the design phase is faster, easier, and less expensive than correcting them in the field.

(more…)

Design Contest – Kitchen, Bath, and Interiors


Modern kitchen space with boho feel that includes natural wood cabinets and peninsula with waterfall countertop edge.

Chief Architect Design Contests are a fun way to share your designs, build credibility and expose your brand.  Share one of your Kitchen, Bath, or Interior Designs for a chance to win Chief Gear. Use any Chief Architect or Home Designer software product to create your original design.

(more…)

Design Contest – Remodel / Addition


Chief Architect exterior modern home rendering with cross section showing

Chief Architect Design Contests are a fun way to share your designs, build credibility and expose your brand.  Share one of your Remodel or Addition Designs for a chance to win Chief Gear. Use any Chief Architect or Home Designer software product to create your original design.

(more…)

2024 Design Contest Winners


Spacious kitchen with full backsplash and expansive range hood.

Profile image of Danielle Schroeder By Danielle Schroeder

Chief Architect has monthly contests for customers to show off their work. People with various backgrounds and styles compete in the following categories: Kitchen/Bath and Interior, Residential, and Remodel/Addition. Please help us congratulate the winners!

(more…)

Elevating Everyday Moments: The Art of Designing a Perfect Dining Room


Farmhouse dining space with wooden table and white brick fireplace rendered in Chief Architect Software

Profile image of Danielle Schroeder By Danielle Schroeder

The dining room is a space that goes beyond functionality. It is the heart of the home where families gather, friends bond, and memorable moments unfold. This guide will walk you through the key elements of creating a dining room that is both visually stunning and a place to make meaningful connections.

(more…)

Design Contest – Residential


Modern home design with flat roof and backyard pool

Chief Architect Design Contests are a fun way to share your designs, build credibility and expose your brand.  Share one of your Residential Designs for a chance to win Chief Gear. Use any Chief Architect or Home Designer software product to create your original design.

(more…)

How to Prepare for a Chief Architect Training Class


Scott Harris training a Chief Architect class.

Phillip Gibney Profile Image By Phillip Gibney

Chief Architect offers online and in-person training classes. These classes are an excellent way to increase your knowledge in the software, get your questions answered, connect with our staff, and network with industry peers. As a class participant, there are several things you can do to help prepare and ensure your success in a training class.

(more…)