Are you looking for new and innovative ways to design your new Chicago home? You may have a solution to your problem at your fingertips. Anyone who owns a smartphone has unlimited access to information and tools in the palm of their hand. Here are the top apps that will assist you in creating the home of your dreams

SketchUp

SketchUp is a comprehensive 3D design software that has both a free version for those who are just dipping their toes in the design game and a pro version for professionals in architecture, construction, engineering, and commercial interior design. This innovative tool will make you feel as if you’ve transformed your new home but also user friendly enough to feel as if you’re working with a sketch pad and a pencil. The software is quite thorough and will meet all of your design needs.

Floorplanner

Floorplanner allows you to design and decorate your home in 2D and 3D by essentially planning the layout of the space in 2D, then switching to view mode in 3D to decorate. All can be done online without having to download any software. Originally designed as only a way to do the floor planning in a house, you’d think that the interior design may seem like an afterthought.  In all actuality, both functions on this app are excellent. This tool is also quite user-friendly.

HomeByMe

HomeByMe is innovative in the fact that brands add their products to its catalog so you can actually have access to the furnishings and decor you want in your home design. Like with the other design apps, you’re able to switch the view from 2D to 3D once the floor plan is complete and you’re ready to start the design of each room. Another option is to start with the decor, as once that’s chosen, you click on summary and the software will produce a floor plan based on your decor choices.

Planner 5D

Planner 5D is unique in that it works on iOS, so if your laptop isn’t handy, you can create your plans on your iPhone or iPad. Planner 5D allows you to create your own plan from scratch or utilize the templates they’ve created. You can adjust shapes and sizes, materials and colors, add furniture, windows and doors, and more. In-app furniture is available, but it’s a bit on the pricey side. Another bonus to Planner 5D is that when you’re ready to share your designs, they can be printed in photorealistic format.

SmartDraw

SmartDraw is quite the smart tool for floor planning, but be aware that it’s only free for the first seven days, so if you need it longer than that be prepared to get the upgrade. The tool is easy to learn but is also advanced enough to complete intricate designs. If you’re looking for plenty of options, SmartDraw has them. There is an endless selection of templates, materials, textures, furniture, and building materials to choose from.

With the help of these apps, you can take a lot of pride in the home you’ve designed for yourself. Congratulations on your newly designed abode!