Chief Architect X17

• Project management mode — a new system for organizing plans and layouts into projects. As your design progresses, project management mode will bundle all referenced files including as‑built plans, remodel plans, revisions, materials, PDFs, and more, even as you create copies and new plans. When you need to share with another designer or a second computer, export the project and it will contain everything in a single file
• Search the project browser for plans, layouts, CAD details, and other items
• Drag and drop saved views directly from the project browser to your layout page
• Specify the image resolution when sending 3D views to layout pages
• Customize what displays in your status bar at the bottom of the screen
• Plan and layout import settings have been consolidated into a single import
• Custom angle snaps — choose from an entire list or add your own custom angles

• Display windows open in 2D and 3D views
• Control for appliance labels inserted into cabinets
• When placing under‑counter appliances between two cabinets, automatic countertops are generated
• Temporary dimension settings are available in each individual dimension default for enhanced control and productivity
• Set cabinet sides and back thickness for more accurate cabinet opening dimensions and cabinet box modeling
• Electrical box gang tool for better control of switches and outlets

• Framing defaults have been centrally located, and new framing defaults have been added, including floor trusses
• For overbuilt roof framing, control whether or not a shoe plate is generated
• Control sizing of top and bottom horizontal girts for post frame construction and pole barns
• Roof defaults include controls for the layer, fill style, and label
• Foundation stem walls build at their actual height, excluding the plate. The automatic sill plate that is generated can be changed to treated
• Use a terrain elevation reference point to define the terrain's elevation relative to the subfloor
• Schedule wrapping — easily manage and organize large schedules into multiple tables

3D Text & Visualization Features

• 3D text, in addition to 3D dimensions, create text in your 3D views
• Dim lights with the dimming tool to create ideal lighting
• Visualize small spaces using the camera setting to hide exterior‑facing items, making it easier to see into small rooms and interiors
• Anisotropic materials for an improved look of materials like stainless steel
• Interactively adjust materials in 3D to scale, rotate, and offset — great for tile layouts
• The 3D cross‑section slider dialog is now dynamic. Make adjustments to the slider while interacting with the design without continually opening and closing the tool

• Create sun studies using a stationary walkthrough either by time lapse or season
• Water animation for 3D views and walkthroughs
• Multi‑select walkthrough key frames for faster editing. Key frames have a pause option for creating a frame effect for your virtual tours
• An integrated material builder to create high quality materials such as hardwoods and tile including grout color