Kitchen design software programs are not exactly a
new idea. They are, however, becoming common enough to be in the
financial reach of the average person, not just professional
architects. When might you want to use this design software?
If you are brain storming conception ideas for a
new home you are planning to build, this is a great way to work with
your architectural firm to demonstrate your wants and needs. In fact,
this idea lends itself to remodel projects as well.
The problems with trying to convey your ideas
verbally, or with rough, hand drawn sketches, is that these methods are
very ambiguous and subject to interpretation. Kitchen design software
takes the guesswork out and streamlines the process!
Marketers Have Caught On to the Trend
For quite some time now, home improvement stores
such as Home Depot and Lowe's have been using software programs to show
homeowners "what if" scenarios using kitchen appliances, cabinets, and
decorations that they sell.
Now, retailers such as IKEA are providing free
downloadable software programs so that the homeowner can design their
new kitchen look in the comfort of their own home. Then all they have
to do is take the resulting file to the store. This is marketing
psychology at its finest.
Kitchen Design Software Features
Most kitchen design software center their logic
around modules and layouts. The planner can choose to begin with a
particular theme in many cases such as modern, vintage, or country.
Some software programs allow the user to enter the dimensions of the
kitchen as a starting point.
The software takes these dimensions and creates a
three dimensional model. Now the user can try out different
ideas_moving cabinets around, positioning appliances, and even locating
lighting fixtures. Different color schemes can be tried out on the fly.
Does one particular thing work with another? No more trying to imagine
it mentally. That approach was always a compromise anyway.
The better third party software will allow you to
conceptualize using the inventory of different manufacturers. Some will
also keep you with in budget; or at least it will keep you in the
ballpark. It does this by keeping a running total on all the products
that you have "placed" in your virtual kitchen space.
The Cost and Benefits of Using Kitchen Design Software
Many software applications are free, as mentioned
above. These are designed to steer consumers to a particular store or
brand name. But independent software programs can be had for less than
one hundred dollars up to many hundreds of dollars. Usually the price
hinges on the application's level of sophistication.
Do you want photo quality images? Do you want
three dimensional graphics rendering? Do you want the budget tracking
feature? These and many other questions will guide your decision on
which software program you choose. One of the best benefits is
intangible.
Imagine having the luxury of trying out different
scenarios in the comfort of your own home and at your leisure without
the distraction of a salesman or an "expert". While it is true that an
architect will have your interests in mind, he also comes with the
baggage of preconceived ideas of what works and what doesn't. Now you
can take charge of your design.
(cn-stonenet.com)
