Quick Overview
- 1#1: SketchUp - Intuitive 3D modeling software for creating detailed interior designs, floor plans, and photorealistic visualizations with extensive furniture libraries.
- 2#2: Chief Architect - Professional home and interior design software that automates 3D models from 2D plans with advanced rendering and material takeoffs.
- 3#3: Revit - BIM platform for collaborative interior design projects featuring parametric modeling, scheduling, and integrated documentation.
- 4#4: AutoCAD - Precision CAD software for 2D drafting and 3D modeling of interior layouts, elevations, and detailed construction documents.
- 5#5: Vectorworks - BIM and CAD software combining 2D drafting, 3D modeling, and visualization tools tailored for interior designers.
- 6#6: ArchiCAD - Integrated BIM solution for designing interiors with real-time 3D views, rendering, and project documentation.
- 7#7: Rhino - Versatile 3D modeling software for complex, freeform interior designs and custom furniture prototyping.
- 8#8: Homestyler - Free web-based interior design tool for creating floor plans, 3D models, and AR walkthroughs with vast product catalogs.
- 9#9: Floorplanner - Online platform for quick 2D floor plans and interactive 3D interior designs with drag-and-drop furnishings.
- 10#10: RoomSketcher - User-friendly app for generating floor plans, 360-degree panoramas, and marketing-ready interior visuals.
Tools were chosen based on robust feature sets (including 3D modeling, rendering, and parametric design), user-centric usability, performance quality, and practical value, balancing accessibility for beginners with power for seasoned professionals.
Comparison Table
This comparison table highlights essential interior design project software, featuring SketchUp, Chief Architect, Revit, AutoCAD, Vectorworks, and more. Readers will gain insights into each tool's key capabilities, usability, and best-fit projects to choose the ideal solution for their work.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | SketchUp Intuitive 3D modeling software for creating detailed interior designs, floor plans, and photorealistic visualizations with extensive furniture libraries. | specialized | 9.4/10 | 9.3/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.9/10 |
| 2 | Chief Architect Professional home and interior design software that automates 3D models from 2D plans with advanced rendering and material takeoffs. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 3 | Revit BIM platform for collaborative interior design projects featuring parametric modeling, scheduling, and integrated documentation. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 4 | AutoCAD Precision CAD software for 2D drafting and 3D modeling of interior layouts, elevations, and detailed construction documents. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.0/10 | 6.5/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 5 | Vectorworks BIM and CAD software combining 2D drafting, 3D modeling, and visualization tools tailored for interior designers. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | ArchiCAD Integrated BIM solution for designing interiors with real-time 3D views, rendering, and project documentation. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 7 | Rhino Versatile 3D modeling software for complex, freeform interior designs and custom furniture prototyping. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 8.4/10 | 5.9/10 | 7.1/10 |
| 8 | Homestyler Free web-based interior design tool for creating floor plans, 3D models, and AR walkthroughs with vast product catalogs. | other | 8.3/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 9 | Floorplanner Online platform for quick 2D floor plans and interactive 3D interior designs with drag-and-drop furnishings. | other | 8.1/10 | 8.0/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 10 | RoomSketcher User-friendly app for generating floor plans, 360-degree panoramas, and marketing-ready interior visuals. | other | 8.2/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.6/10 |
Intuitive 3D modeling software for creating detailed interior designs, floor plans, and photorealistic visualizations with extensive furniture libraries.
Professional home and interior design software that automates 3D models from 2D plans with advanced rendering and material takeoffs.
BIM platform for collaborative interior design projects featuring parametric modeling, scheduling, and integrated documentation.
Precision CAD software for 2D drafting and 3D modeling of interior layouts, elevations, and detailed construction documents.
BIM and CAD software combining 2D drafting, 3D modeling, and visualization tools tailored for interior designers.
Integrated BIM solution for designing interiors with real-time 3D views, rendering, and project documentation.
Versatile 3D modeling software for complex, freeform interior designs and custom furniture prototyping.
Free web-based interior design tool for creating floor plans, 3D models, and AR walkthroughs with vast product catalogs.
Online platform for quick 2D floor plans and interactive 3D interior designs with drag-and-drop furnishings.
User-friendly app for generating floor plans, 360-degree panoramas, and marketing-ready interior visuals.
SketchUp
specializedIntuitive 3D modeling software for creating detailed interior designs, floor plans, and photorealistic visualizations with extensive furniture libraries.
The revolutionary Push/Pull tool that instantly extrudes 2D shapes into 3D models effortlessly
SketchUp is a versatile 3D modeling software widely used for interior design, allowing users to create detailed 3D models of spaces, furniture, and layouts with intuitive tools. It excels in quick conceptualization and visualization, supporting everything from floor plans to photorealistic renders via extensions. The platform integrates a massive 3D Warehouse library for pre-made assets, making it ideal for rapid prototyping in interior projects.
Pros
- Intuitive push-pull modeling for fast 3D creation
- Vast 3D Warehouse library of interior assets
- Extensive extension ecosystem for rendering and advanced tools
Cons
- Photorealistic rendering requires paid extensions like V-Ray
- Can become sluggish with very complex models
- Full pro features locked behind annual subscription
Best For
Interior designers and architects seeking an intuitive tool for quick 3D modeling, space planning, and client presentations.
Pricing
Free web version; SketchUp Pro at $349/year; SketchUp Studio at $699/year with advanced rendering tools.
Chief Architect
specializedProfessional home and interior design software that automates 3D models from 2D plans with advanced rendering and material takeoffs.
Intelligent 3D object generation for custom cabinetry, stairs, and trim that automatically adapts to design changes
Chief Architect is a professional-grade 3D home design software renowned for its comprehensive capabilities in architectural drafting and detailed interior design. It enables users to create precise floor plans, furnish interiors with extensive libraries of cabinets, furniture, and fixtures, and produce photorealistic renderings and walkthroughs. Ideal for residential projects, it integrates seamless 3D modeling with material takeoffs and construction documentation.
Pros
- Exceptional 3D visualization and ray-traced rendering for stunning interior presentations
- Vast library of customizable furniture, cabinetry, and manufacturer-specific products
- Automated tools for material schedules, cost estimation, and construction details
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training for full proficiency
- High upfront cost and resource-heavy performance demands powerful hardware
- Primarily architecture-focused, which may overwhelm pure interior designers
Best For
Professional interior designers and architects managing complex residential remodeling projects that require integrated structural and furnishing design.
Pricing
Perpetual license for Premier at $3,295; Interiors version at $2,695; annual service pack upgrades ~$595.
Revit
enterpriseBIM platform for collaborative interior design projects featuring parametric modeling, scheduling, and integrated documentation.
Intelligent parametric families that link geometry, data, and schedules for dynamic, real-time updates across the entire model
Autodesk Revit is a powerful Building Information Modeling (BIM) software widely used for interior design projects, enabling detailed 3D modeling, space planning, and material takeoffs. It excels in creating parametric families for furniture, fixtures, and finishes, while integrating architectural, structural, and MEP elements for coordinated designs. Revit supports photorealistic rendering, documentation, and cloud collaboration, making it ideal for complex, data-driven interior workflows.
Pros
- Comprehensive BIM tools for accurate modeling and clash detection
- Seamless integration with Autodesk ecosystem for rendering and fabrication
- Robust scheduling and quantity takeoff for project management
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training
- High system resource demands and subscription costs
- Overkill for small-scale or conceptual interior design work
Best For
Large interior design firms or teams handling complex commercial projects that require BIM coordination with architecture and engineering.
Pricing
Annual subscription starts at ~$2,310 USD for Revit alone; included in AEC Collection (~$3,110 USD/year) with additional tools.
AutoCAD
enterprisePrecision CAD software for 2D drafting and 3D modeling of interior layouts, elevations, and detailed construction documents.
Dynamic blocks and parametric constraints for efficient, reusable design elements
AutoCAD is a professional-grade computer-aided design (CAD) software developed by Autodesk, renowned for its precision in 2D drafting and 3D modeling across various industries. For interior design projects, it enables detailed floor plans, elevations, sections, and 3D visualizations with parametric constraints and dynamic blocks. While highly customizable via AutoLISP and add-ons, it serves as a foundational tool rather than a specialized interior design suite.
Pros
- Unmatched precision and accuracy for technical drawings
- Robust 2D/3D modeling with parametric tools
- Seamless integration with other Autodesk products and DWG ecosystem
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners
- High subscription cost without interior-specific libraries
- Overkill for simple residential projects
Best For
Professional interior designers and architects handling complex, precision-driven projects requiring industry-standard CAD outputs.
Pricing
Subscription-based: $235/month, $1,890/year, or $1,975 for 3 years (USD).
Vectorworks
specializedBIM and CAD software combining 2D drafting, 3D modeling, and visualization tools tailored for interior designers.
Hybrid 2D/3D environment with Marionette visual scripting for custom parametric design objects
Vectorworks is a robust CAD/BIM software suite tailored for architecture, interior design, and related fields, offering seamless 2D drafting, 3D modeling, and rendering capabilities. It supports interior designers with specialized tools for space planning, furniture design, material schedules, and photorealistic visualizations via Renderworks. The platform integrates BIM workflows, making it suitable for collaborative projects from concept to construction documentation.
Pros
- Comprehensive 2D/3D/BIM tools with parametric objects
- Superior rendering and visualization with Renderworks
- Extensive libraries for furniture, fixtures, and finishes
Cons
- Steep learning curve, especially for non-CAD users
- High subscription costs and resource-intensive performance
- Limited mobile/cloud collaboration compared to competitors
Best For
Professional interior design firms and architects handling complex, BIM-integrated projects requiring detailed modeling and rendering.
Pricing
Subscriptions from $152/month (Fundamentals) to $208/month (Architect); perpetual licenses start at $3,045 plus annual upgrades.
ArchiCAD
enterpriseIntegrated BIM solution for designing interiors with real-time 3D views, rendering, and project documentation.
The Morph tool for creating complex, freeform organic shapes and custom interior elements without parametric constraints
ArchiCAD, developed by Graphisoft, is a powerful BIM (Building Information Modeling) software primarily designed for architects but highly capable for interior design projects through its advanced 3D modeling, parametric objects, and rendering tools. It allows users to create detailed interior layouts, incorporate furniture libraries, generate photorealistic visualizations, and produce construction documentation seamlessly. While it's more architecture-focused, its Morph tool and zone management features make it suitable for complex interior spaces integrated with building structures.
Pros
- Robust BIM capabilities for accurate 3D interior modeling and clash detection
- Excellent rendering and visualization with integrated CineRender engine
- Strong collaboration tools including BIMcloud for team projects
Cons
- Steep learning curve, especially for non-architects new to BIM
- Higher cost compared to dedicated interior design software
- Interface can feel cluttered for simple residential interior tasks
Best For
Professional interior designers handling large-scale commercial projects that require BIM integration with architectural workflows.
Pricing
Subscription-based: Best Value plan at €2,370/year (~$2,600 USD) per workstation; Collaborate edition at €3,790/year; free trial available.
Rhino
specializedVersatile 3D modeling software for complex, freeform interior designs and custom furniture prototyping.
Grasshopper visual scripting for parametric interior design automation
Rhino (Rhinoceros 3D) is a powerful NURBS-based 3D modeling software widely used for precise surface and solid modeling in architecture and design fields. For interior design projects, it enables the creation of complex custom furniture, space planning, and detailed 3D visualizations with support for rendering plugins. Its extensibility through Grasshopper allows parametric design, though it lacks native BIM or interior-specific workflows.
Pros
- Exceptional precision in NURBS modeling for custom interior elements and furniture
- Grasshopper plugin for advanced parametric and generative design
- Vast plugin ecosystem including rendering tools like V-Ray and Enscape
Cons
- Steep learning curve, especially for non-technical users
- Lacks built-in interior design tools like material libraries or BIM integration
- High upfront cost with additional expenses for plugins
Best For
Professional interior designers and architects requiring precise 3D modeling for complex, custom projects rather than quick conceptual work.
Pricing
Perpetual license at $995 for Rhino 8; annual subscription $995; educational discounts available.
Homestyler
otherFree web-based interior design tool for creating floor plans, 3D models, and AR walkthroughs with vast product catalogs.
Vast catalog of real-world brand products for hyper-realistic, brand-accurate designs
Homestyler is a browser-based interior design platform that lets users create 2D floor plans from scratch or scans and convert them into photorealistic 3D room designs. It offers a massive library of over 1 million real-brand furniture, decor, and materials for drag-and-drop placement, along with tools for lighting, textures, and VR walkthroughs. Suitable for both beginners and pros, it supports project collaboration and high-res exports.
Pros
- Extensive library of authentic branded furniture and decor
- Photorealistic 3D renders and 360-degree panoramas
- Intuitive drag-and-drop interface with free core features
Cons
- Advanced exports and unlimited storage require Pro upgrade
- Performance can lag on complex projects in browser
- Limited advanced CAD import/export compared to pro tools
Best For
Homeowners, real estate agents, and amateur designers needing quick, realistic interior visualizations without steep learning curves.
Pricing
Free forever plan; Pro starts at $4.90/month (billed annually) for advanced features.
Floorplanner
otherOnline platform for quick 2D floor plans and interactive 3D interior designs with drag-and-drop furnishings.
Seamless conversion from 2D plans to interactive 3D walkthroughs with photorealistic 360° panoramas
Floorplanner is a web-based floor planning and interior design tool that allows users to create detailed 2D floor plans and convert them into interactive 3D models. It features a vast library of furniture, fixtures, and decor items for furnishing virtual spaces, along with photorealistic rendering and 360-degree panoramas. Primarily aimed at quick visualizations, it's suitable for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts in interior design projects.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop interface for beginners
- Extensive library of over 260,000 3D objects and furniture
- High-quality 3D renders, walkthroughs, and 360° panoramas
Cons
- Free plan limited to low-res exports and watermarks
- Advanced customization and materials require Pro subscription
- Performance can lag with very complex or large projects
Best For
DIY homeowners, real estate agents, and freelance interior designers seeking quick, professional-looking floor plans and 3D visualizations without steep learning curves.
Pricing
Free plan (basic features, 1 project); Plus: $5/user/month (5 projects); Pro: $25/user/month (unlimited projects, HD exports); annual discounts available.
RoomSketcher
otherUser-friendly app for generating floor plans, 360-degree panoramas, and marketing-ready interior visuals.
Live 3D mode that instantly renders 3D views as you draw in 2D
RoomSketcher is an intuitive online floor plan and interior design software that allows users to create professional 2D and 3D floor plans, furnish rooms with a vast library of items, and generate photorealistic renderings. It supports real-time 3D visualization as you draw, making it easy to experiment with layouts, materials, and decor. Popular among homeowners, real estate agents, and small design firms for quick project visualizations and client presentations.
Pros
- User-friendly drag-and-drop interface suitable for beginners
- Extensive library of furniture, fixtures, and customizable materials
- High-quality 2D/3D renderings and 360-degree walkthroughs
Cons
- Limited advanced modeling tools compared to professional CAD software
- Free plan includes watermarks and export restrictions
- Subscription can become expensive for heavy users or teams
Best For
Homeowners, real estate professionals, and small interior design teams needing quick, visually appealing floor plans without steep learning curves.
Pricing
Free plan with basic features and watermarks; Pro starts at $99/year (1 user); Business plans from $295/year with advanced sharing and white-label options.
Conclusion
The reviewed software offers a spectrum of solutions, from beginner-friendly tools to professional platforms, with SketchUp leading as the top choice, prized for its intuitive 3D modeling, detailed plans, and extensive furniture libraries. Chief Architect and Revit stand out as strong alternatives, boasting automation, rendering power, and BIM collaboration respectively, ensuring every designer finds a tailored fit. In the end, the best tool depends on specific needs, yet SketchUp shines as the ultimate pick for bringing interior visions to life.
Take the first step in elevating your design projects—explore SketchUp today and unlock the ability to create stunning, detailed interior spaces with ease.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison