Watch video tutorials to get familiar with how the program works.
A successful room design starts with a good floor plan. In the past, floor plans were usually created by interior designers or interior decorators and had to be carefully drawn to scale using graph paper and instruments such as a drafting triangle, ruler and T-square. Fortunately, modern technology has simplified room design with the help of home-design software programs and free online virtual design tools that practically anyone can learn without much difficulty. After familiarizing yourself with how the program works, you can begin to virtually design any of the rooms in your home.
Instructions
1. Find a partner to help you measure the walls.
Use a tape measure and the assistance of a friend to get accurate dimensions of the room. Sketch of the outline of the room (usually a square, rectangle or L shape). Measure the length of each wall. Record the length with the label "OA" for over-all length on all four walls. Measure the distance of a door or window from the nearest corner. Mark the location of the door or window on your sketch and record the distance from the corner. Repeat the process for any additional doors or windows on each wall. Use the same method for any other permanent architectural features, such as a fireplace.
2. Size the room according to the measurements you recorded.
Take your room outline to the computer to use as a reference. Open your home-design software program and choose the type of room or the shape of the room you're going to design. Size each wall appropriately, according to the dimensions on your outline. Add the windows and doors in the proper locations. Remember to periodically save your work to avoid having to redo what you have already done.
3. Virtual painting allows you to see the room with many color options.
Explore options for wall color. Try a few different color schemes for wall color, trim and accent color. Select the paint color and click on the parts of the wall where you want the color to go. Experiment with different floor coverings, such as tile, hardwood or carpeting. Try different styles and finishes for cabinets and countertops if designing a bathroom or kitchen. Save your final selections before moving on to furnishings and furniture. Remember that you can always change the wall color and flooring later if you decide to try something different.
4. Virtually arrange furniture and know exactly where to place it later.
Look through the gallery of furniture and lighting for the type of room you are designing. Try on different fabrics and upholstery for chairs, sofas or loveseats. Drag and drop the furniture you like into the room. Experiment with different placement options and angles. Make sure the furniture isn't blocking a doorway or impeding traffic flow (where people normally walk) in the room. Try different lighting options. Add a few different chandeliers, hanging pendants, wall sconces, table lamps or floor lamps to the room to see what you think looks best with the style of furniture and colors you have picked out. Remember to use empty space as part of the room's design.
5. Virtually accessorize for precise wall art placement.
Look through the gallery of accessories and décor. Add decorative pillows, vases, mirrors, area rugs, wall décor, indoor plants and any other accents that appeal to you. Remember not to clutter the room. Explore options for curtains, drapes or blinds if the program offers window-treatment options.
6. Enhance your design by viewing it from every angle.
Utilize all of the different viewing options available. View a 3-D model of the room to get a better perspective of your furniture placement. Make any changes necessary to enhance the design. View the room with different lighting if the option is available.
7. Share your design ideas with your interior decorator.
Print your completed floor plan to take with you when shopping for paint, flooring, cabinets, countertops or anything else you need to buy for the room. E-mail your virtual room design to family and friends. Use your room design to communicate your vision and ideas to any professionals you hire, such as interior designers or contractors.
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