By We spend a significant portion of our lives in our homes. Our living spaces should be designed to be comfortable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing. Residential space planning can help you achieve an organized and well-planned living space.
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Chief Architect
What AI is Saying about Chief Architect
by Kerry Hansen & Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence (AI) is everywhere right now and being in the tech industry, we wanted to see what it had to say about Chief Architect Software so we asked ChatGPT, “Why should I buy Chief Architect Software?” and these results which came up in a matter of minutes.
(more…)Design Options in Chief Architect
by Design options are choices provided to the client that offers variations in design concepts. Design options can range from design styles, floor plan layouts, and elevations, to material finishes, interior selections, and more. Using the tools in Chief Architect Premier, you can help clients visualize design options to ensure they are satisfied with a home design and provide upsell opportunities.
(more…)Winners of the 2022 Design of the Year Contest
Congratulations to the Chief Architect Design of the Year Winners!
(more…)2022 Chief Architect Design of the Year Contest Finalists
Chief Architect holds monthly design contests for customers to show off their work throughout the year. Designers with different backgrounds and design styles go head-to-head in the Kitchen/Bath & Interior, Remodel/Addition, and Residential categories.
(more…)Rendering Tips and Tricks
By 
Chief Academy 2022 has come and gone, and we are left with the notes from the information we shared. I was tasked with the opportunity to provide some thoughts on the rendering functions of Chief Architect and how to go about the process. I’ve condensed my PowerPoint slides and reformulated them for reference in this post. I hope you find some helpful pieces in your rendering journey!
This will be a high-level topic that explores a lot of moving parts. Follow the embedded links throughout to learn more about different topics.
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Chief Academy 2022
by Kerry Hansen
Chief Architect held its annual Chief Academy near our headquarters in Coeur d’Alene, ID. Over 150 attendees and guests were welcomed to the Pacific Northwest, taking full advantage of the beautiful weather and the last few summer days by investing in themselves for 2 ½ days of in-depth training, 1-on-1 support, and networking events.
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How to Choose the Best Computer for Chief Architect and 3D Design Software
Chief Architect produces 3D Home Design Software for professional designers and DIY homeowners. From automated features for quickly creating floor plans, section details, and layouts to photo-realistic 3D renders for visualizing the design, the software is a powerful tool for those with residential design needs. Because the software is so powerful and robust, a question we often hear at Chief Architect is “what type of computer do I need to run the software”? Many computers are capable of running Chief Architect; however, depending on the specs, some will run Chief much more efficiently. Investing in the right computer will also help ensure that the computer will run future versions of Chief effectively for a longer period of time, making your investment more cost effective over time.
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Post Frame Design in Chief Architect
Post frame construction is a building method in which a structure is framed using posts that are connected on the outside with 2 x 4 or 2 x 6 horizontal framing known as girts. The posts are typically placed in a concrete footing or can be connected to a steel fastener that is anchored into the concrete footing. Trusses are typically used to support the roof system. Once the framing is complete the structure can be finished for its intended purpose.
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Comparing Chief Architect Premier and Chief Architect Interiors
Update January 10th, 2023: Chief Architect Interiors has been discontinued. All of the features in Chief Architect Interiors are available in Chief Architect Premier. The main differences between the two programs were that the Interiors version didn’t include features for framing, decks, outdoor living, terrain, and landscaping. If you have a legacy license of Chief Architect Interiors and are interested in upgrading to Chief Architect Premier, this blog article covers the features gained in Chief Architect Premier.
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Chief Architect develops top‑ranked home design software.
Chief Architect Premier is for builders, remodelers, architects, and interior designers.
Home Designer is for DIY home enthusiasts.
Download a free trial today!
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What Our Customers Are Saying
Architectural Design-from concept to building permit
I use Chief Architect for design, presentation, and final permit drawings. For residential design and small commercial, there is nothing that matches or exceeds. The work on my site is a direct reflection of its capabilities. I adjust and applied… the software to meet Section 9 OBC and other parts of Canada. I exchange files with my engineer without any issues. The CAD is excellent for Sections and Structural Details! Read more “Architectural Design-from concept to building permit”
Paul M Mandrish
The rendering quality and user-friendliness are unmatched!
I have been using Chief Architect since 2015 and have used a few other software programs in the past, but the rendering quality and user-friendliness are unmatched! This software helps clients truly envision their project coming to life, and helps… close sales because there is a sense of confidence in what their final product will look like. Read more “The rendering quality and user-friendliness are unmatched!”
Savanna Beyer
Fun, intuitive, user-friendly
You don’t have to be an architect to learn Chief Architect. The software yields impressive professional project results within a fairly short time. The many built-in options provide the user with the tools to try different styles on a wide… variety of objects with the click of a few buttons. Read more “Fun, intuitive, user-friendly”
Veronica Sloboda
Great for Residential Design
I think Chief Architect is a large component of my success in Residential Design
Sean Bulman
Great Software
I’ve been using Chief Premier since the X3 version and I must say that I’m very please with the software; it’s ease of use, features and professional output. I’m currently using X15 and I must say that the renderings are… phenomenal. I actually had a few instances where I posted renderings of finished products and persons inquired about the prices of the buildings or cost for rental. Read more “Great Software”
Dwane Peterson
DP Architecture
Total no brainer
Renting the program has made the commitment to Chief a total no brainer … I am among many designers that find the program not only profitable but fun to use.
Brian Farris
Farris Construction
Thank you, Chief Architect!!!
I use Chief Architect software exclusively in my design business. I started out with CA Home Designer Pro, used that for two years, then “graduated” to the full-blown Chief Architect software. The structure and platform of all their products is… identical so, moving up to the next, greater version is SO comfortable! I’m getting raves about the work I’m doing – thank you, Chief Architect!!! Read more “Thank you, Chief Architect!!!”
William Haigh
William Haigh Design
Will pay for itself in one job!
I have been using Chief Architect since late 2005. As I tell everyone who is interested in doing 3D design, Chief Architect is the best way to go. It is a powerful program, easy to learn and use, is at… a great price and will pay for itself in one job. Read more “Will pay for itself in one job!”
Mark Supanchick
State-of-the-Art Virtual Reality
I’ve found that Chief Architect really helps the clients that have a hard time visualizing what their finished project will look like.
Vincent Livingston
I love the speed at which I can enter a plan and the ease of being able to click a couple of buttons and instantly be able to see it in 3D.
I’ve been using Chief since 2005 and attended a training in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, in 2006. When I started my own company in 2018, it was no question that I would use Chief Architect. I started with Home Designer and… upgraded within a couple of years. I love the speed at which I can enter a plan and the ease of being able to click a couple of buttons and instantly be able to see it in 3D. These capabilities make communicating my design ideas to my clients a piece of cake. And they love seeing the photo-realistic renders before the foundation is even poured! Read more “I love the speed at which I can enter a plan and the ease of being able to click a couple of buttons and instantly be able to see it in 3D.”
Rebecca Langman
Invaluable Asset
From the start, Chief has become an invaluable asset to my company and design work. I am truly grateful for this software and am so glad that I had given it a try.
Giuseppe Rispoli
Great Product!!!
I have a small four person architecture firm and utilize Chief Architect for all our residential projects. It’s a great resource for our designers and sets us apart from other residential designers / drafting services in our area.
Michael Rogers
Bridging the Gap between 2D planning and 3D Rendering
Every time we are able to walk our clients through their future home or project with the Chief Architect 3D Software, it’s a success. Many of our clients are not visual. Chief helps bridge the gap between the 2D floor… plan and grasping what the finished project will look like. We hear constant feedback on how impressive the capabilities of being able to see the scale of the spaces, customize materials, try different cabinet configurations, etc. We are able to save them so much headache and heartache in the design phase vs. going through a change order process in the field. Being able to offer the 3D aspect for our projects has truly set us apart from our peers. Read more “Bridging the Gap between 2D planning and 3D Rendering”
Luke Sippel
3D CAD design made easy
Chief Architect Software makes 3D CAD design so easy. I can render with a push of a button. Other software makes the process much more difficult and complicated. This is the second CAD software I’ve learned, and I definitely won’t… be changing! Read more “3D CAD design made easy”
Hayden Bolin
Kudos for making the student a priority
Students have asked about Chief Architect more than any of our other programs. I use it at the end of the semester because if I used it in the beginning, I would never get them to move on to other… units… It will be the one program students will use voluntarily and will assure me learning is taking place at home. Plus it will make me the most popular teacher. ha ha Read more “Kudos for making the student a priority”
Karen Armstrong
I love Chief Architect… It allows me, as well as many others, to truly succeed
I was the only drafter-designer using Chief Architect in Southern California, or at least it felt that way. I was beating my competitors 99 times out of 100. Customers would always choose me because I could provide 3D renderings. I love Chief Architect…… It allows me, as well as many others, to truly succeed. Read more “I love Chief Architect… It allows me, as well as many others, to truly succeed”
David Michael Theis
Instantly fell in love…
I instantly fell in love with the easy to learn, user-friendly interface, and the details it was capable of capturing. My clients have been very happy with their design, the process, and the finished product.
Abe Neufeld
The best home design software we’ve ever used!
The best home design software we’ve ever used! Finally, a program that works or “thinks” like a designer as opposed to a program for the manufacturer of boxes or materials. Great quality renderings too.
Mark Cobucci
Powerful and Easy-To-Use Tools
I have worked in other BIM software before, but Chief Architect makes it easier to put my concepts into drawings, and I can spend more time creating instead of fighting with obscure tools and interfaces. The powerful but easy-to-use tools… along with the realistic rendering capabilities are extremely valuable in my work. Read more “Powerful and Easy-To-Use Tools”
Ethan Smith
Student
Great job Chief Architect team!
I’ve had great results using this software. I started with Home Designer Pro and then moved to Chief Architect Premier. I really like the way the software is set up, it’s much easier to use than other products. My clients… love the 3D renderings and I know it’s helped me get new projects. Great job Chief Architect team! Read more “Great job Chief Architect team!”
Scott Johnson
I find it invaluable. Thank you, Chief Architect, for providing me with a tool that I can utilize to create an Architectural Design Company that is head and shoulders above most of my competition.
I own and operate an Architectural Design Studio in Honolulu, Hawaii, and have been using Chief Architect since the year 2000. We solely operate Chief Architect here in my office and currently have 8 licenses. It is a great tool… for communicating different ideas and design concepts. I find it invaluable. My clients are thrilled and amazed at what the program can do. They get so excited to be able to see their kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms, living areas, and exterior renderings of their house designs. We also do all of our construction drawings in-house, with Chief Architect, including floor plans, elevations, foundation, framing, and cross sections and details. I have shown how fast Chief is compared to other programs to those who are experts in those programs, and they have all conceded Chief is faster and easier to use than their programs. Thank you, Chief Architect, for providing me with a tool that I can utilize to create an Architectural Design Company that is head and shoulders above most of my competition. It has truly helped to make us one of the best Architectural Design Companies in Honolulu. Read more “I find it invaluable. Thank you, Chief Architect, for providing me with a tool that I can utilize to create an Architectural Design Company that is head and shoulders above most of my competition.”
Don Corbin
Chief Render
I have been using Chief Architect design software for 23 years now. I and my clients really love this program. It is a great tool for communication between the designer and the client.
We design and produce plans from… their inception to construction drawings to obtain permits for approximately 200 projects a year. I have a complete staff of 6 drafters who all use Chief Architect for every phase of our drawings and designs.
Here is a sample of one of the kitchens for a new home we are just finalizing. My client is over the moon Happy with the design.
Thanks, Chief Architect Staff You Guys are Great! Read more “Chief Render”
Donald Corbin
Thank you Chief Architect for a great program.
Since we have been using Chief Architect, we have been able to give our customers a complete visual of what we proposed for their project, as well as, boost our credibility, our sales, and our overall profit for all projects… we have sold. Thank you Chief Architect for a great program. Read more “Thank you Chief Architect for a great program.”
Jason Crawford
Nebraska Handyman
Chief Architect does it all! It is the bread and butter of my business.
“I haven’t had to look for any other programs when it comes to designing. Chief Architect does it all! I think my business is a Chief Architect success story in itself. It is the bread and butter of my business, and without… it, I couldn’t do what I do for a living! I get to work with clients nationwide because the software enables me to design spaces from my computer.” Read more “Chief Architect does it all! It is the bread and butter of my business.”
Cortney Smith
GREAT Software program that lets me be fast and work with 2D and 3D simultaneously!
I have been using Chief Architect for such a long time. In this kind of business, we need to be fast and work with 2D and 3D simultaneously, and Chief Architect is just a GREAT Software program that does both.… I can’t imagine working with a different program that doesn’t give us these tools that Chief Architect does. Read more “GREAT Software program that lets me be fast and work with 2D and 3D simultaneously!”
Javier Montenegro
Chief Architect Software helps clients visualize the proposed designs.
Not only does Chief Architect Software create beautiful renderings, but it is imperative that I can also create drawings that are clean and straightforward for our contractors to reference on-site. Every client is so impressed with the renderings Chief Architect… Software produces, and the walkthroughs help them visualize my proposed designs. Almost every time, the walkthrough helps us finalize the details in one sitting instead of going back and forth during several meetings. Read more “Chief Architect Software helps clients visualize the proposed designs.”
Judi Lee-Carr
By far the best decision I could have ever made!
I switched from another program to Chief Architect 11 months ago, and it was by far the best decision I could have ever made. I am so much happier working on plans now, and my work quality improves daily. My… customers have been ecstatic with the results so far, and I am getting better and better every week. I look forward to many more years of working with Chief Architect and seeing you all each year in Coeur d’Alene for more training. Read more “By far the best decision I could have ever made!”
Roy Shurling
A very powerful tool
I am an interior design professional who has been using Chief Architect software for my business since 2010. The software is a very powerful tool I use on all my projects and allows me to create detailed plans, elevations and… very impressive 3D renderings for my clients. The software has taken time to learn, but the support from Chief is quick and helpful, and the tools including videos and online forums also very helpful. Read more “A very powerful tool”
Kirsten Dumo
This program changed my career.
I started using Chief Architect as just to show interior room concepts but it has grown to producing full exterior views and selling more then just interiors but selling full build concepts. I work with a builder and our business… has seen a huge impact from being able to show prospects and current clients how things would look etc. Read more “This program changed my career.”
Janel joppie
I think it – Chief allows me to design it
I’ve been using Chief Architect since 2002 – and the program has continued to improve dramatically over the years. The improvements have always reduced drafting time while allowing the design process to flow and be inspired – not hindered –… by the limitations of the program. I’ve never found myself in a situation where I said, “I would love to attempt this design, but unfortunately Chief Architect cannot do this so I must change my design idea”. I think it – Chief allows me to model it – and now – raytrace it photo realistically. I used to export my Chief model into a 3rd party rendering program – now I design and raytrace all within Chief Architect. Read more “I think it – Chief allows me to design it”
Robert Smith
A Magical Tool!
This has quite literally changed my business, by showing clients what their space will look like before it is built is a magical tool.
Gabriele Pizzale
We built our dream home!
It took me two years to design and exactly one year to build our dream home. With the help of Chief Architect, we were able to see our vision come to life. With a custom home, we had to provide… many visuals in the drawing package for the contractors to catch our dream. Chief Architect’s outstanding visualization and renderings made the design and build exactly what we had imagined. Now that we have been in our home for about 3 years, we realize we would not change anything! After we spent so much time during the design process our friends and contractors sometimes offered change suggestions to our design to consider. My pact with my wife “Stick to the Plan” and that’s what we did. We love our home and we want to thank Chief Architect for providing a software product that allowed us to achieve our vision. Now, I am currently using Chief Architect Premier to design a home for my daughter and her family! Read more “We built our dream home!”
Michael S Burt
homeowner designer
The Student’s Key to Success
I chose to use Chief Architect [for interior design school] specifically because of its ease of use on the interface, great tutorial videos, alignment with NKBA graphic standards, and the convenience of creating all deliverables from 2D plans to specification… schedules to beautiful 3D renderings Read more “The Student’s Key to Success”
Payal Thakkar
A Game Changer
Chief Architect has been a game-changer for me, it offers a very efficient workflow with an output that makes my clients feel individual. The documents look crafted and relate to the project, not generic. Chief covers the whole spectrum from… 3d visuals through to detailed sections, plans etc and even offers a 3d viewer app for construction professionals and clients alike to share 3d models. This would, could, and should be a global market leader with just a couple of tiny tiny tweaks! The house in the picture is in outer London England. The work has commenced, all detail and outline designs were produced within Chief Architect. The pen should be an intuitive tool to convey ideas and information and not entirely a skill of its own, Chief has nailed it! Please remember CA, Interiors are only 1/10th of architecture. Read more “A Game Changer”
Philip Hurdwell
Chief Architect’s 3D Viewer Mobile App
We had one client who took his home model and projected it onto his lot in the mountains using Chief Architect’s 3D Viewer mobile app. While using the Augmented Reality feature he was able to walk around his home and get… a feel for the layout. He sat and waited in his “living room” to see what the fall sunset would look like out of his living room window. At that moment he said he was sold. It was his home. This is the opportunity that I would love to allow every client to have. Read more “Chief Architect’s 3D Viewer Mobile App”
Steve Johnsen
Best Architectural Software!
I’ve been using Chief Architect for over 10 years and would not choose anything else. Other design software just doesn’t compare to Chief, it is by far the best. It is built with ease and simplicity in mind, no need… to load anything in as it comes with everything straight out of the box! There is no limit to what can be modified, everything can be modified to fit your design needs, literally everything! Read more “Best Architectural Software!”
Cody Corbin
Our favorite software
Our favorite software. I have been using chief for about 6 years now, I believe I started in x4. Chief was the clear choice for architectural design and plan sets, with its import and export into other CAD and BIM-based… products, its extensive catalogs, its massive collection of support articles, bustling internet forums and decent rendering abilities. There is no other software on the market that is as user-friendly, capable and fast. We’ve recently started using Chief Architect for market advertisements as well as importing into high-end visual video walkthrough software such as Lumion. We’re quite happy with Chief’s versatility and ever-expanding features. Read more “Our favorite software”
James Daoust
Chief Architect has been invaluable!
We use Chief Architect through the entire design and planning process here at Spectrum Design Group. Having a tool that allows us to “walk” our clients through their renovation in 3-D and incorporate actual specified materials and finishes ensures that… our clients know what the end product will be. It has been invaluable in communicating our designs to not just our clients, but also our contractors. Read more “Chief Architect has been invaluable!”
Cory Rodeheaver
Lifeblood of my business
I love the capabilities that Chief Architect has over all other design software! I am able to create floor plans, electrical plans, schedules, elevations, and RENDERINGS very fast (plus so much more)!! This tool allows me to give my clients… an amazing experience and create incredible designs. My business would not be the same without it, and I recommend it to everyone! Read more “Lifeblood of my business”
Jasmine Galle
Absolutely Indispensable!
We use Chief Architect every single day and it is an absolutely indispensable part of our business. The ability to show a client, with extreme accuracy, what a space will look like before the work has even begun is everything.
Robby & Lisa Griffin
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