If you are planning to build your dream home and would like to design it by yourself, there are software applications available which may be helpful to you.

We have reviewed some of the best architectural design software applications for 2014 and have come up with this list:

10. Instant Architect

If not for its lack of kitchen wizards and other basic tools for designing, Instant Architect would have been first on our list. Nevertheless, this application has many powerful features including excellent viewing options in 2D and 3D as well as a huge collection of objects, colors and materials to use. It is also user-friendly that even people without a background in home designing can use it.

9. Arcon Visual Architecture

The self-builder version of Arcon Visual Architecture is an ideal application for home builders and remodelers. It has the capability to create accurate and scaled house floor plans which you can automatically convert to 2D or 3D models. You can then instantly preview your designed model to ensure that it will suit your taste before starting actual construction.

8. SketchUp

SketchUp is an architectural design software application that allows users to create home designs from scratch or from its built-in 3D warehouse. This warehouse has one of the biggest collections of 3D models available for home designing. Additionally, this application has useful tools for adding model views, drawing scales, dimensions, graphics and callouts. A sketchup rendering plugin can also be used to convert a design into a high-resolution photorealistic image. The finished output can then be exported to a CAD or PDF file.

7. SoftPlan Home Design Software

SoftPlan is one of the leading CAD package design software for home builders. It allows for the creation of accurate and fully editable house designs with its easy-to-use interface. It also enables you to import images from your digital camera and incorporate them in your designs. Its basic features include 3D rendition of designs, realistic reflections and shadows, and customizable surface textures such as bricks and hardwood.

6. Chief Architect

With its rich features and simple interface, Chief Architect may be considered as one of the most promising 3D architectural design software for 2014. This application can be used for creating home and commercial building designs.

Chief Architect automatically creates a 3D model as well as a list of materials needed for your construction. With this program, you can insert smart objects to your design from its built-in collection. It also allows you to simultaneously edit your work in 2D and 3D then render them in a photorealistic output.

5. DesignWorkshop

If you’re looking for a comprehensive application for home and landscape designing, DesignWorkshop is one of the best options available for you. Users will find this application handy for making 3D home models, renderings and walkthroughs as well as landscape renderings and walkthroughs. With this application, you will be able to make designs in 3D complete with 3D objects and then print or export them later on.

4. ProArchitect

ProArchitect is a building information modeling software application with powerful features for 3D design and visualization as well as detailed drawings for residential remodeling and construction projects.

Some of its basic functionalities include building information modeling, creation of 3D designs and models, and creation of landscape designs.

3. Punch!

With Punch! Home and Landscape Premium, designing your home can be a lot more fun! You can experiment using different materials, colors, ceiling, doors, windows and other parts for your home. Simply drag and drop any object to complement your design.

One of the highlights of this application is its tool called QuickStart Preview which can help you quickly start designing without having to draw walls for each room. 2D or 3D viewing of the output is also available.

2. TurboFloorPlan 3D Home & Landscape

Using TurboFloorPlan 3D Home & Landscape, you can make a plan of every aspect of your home, including its foundation, electrical, HVAC and plumbing layouts, walling, doors, windows and roofs.

Apart from home interior, you can also use it to design fences, paths, decks, gardens and lawns with customizable outdoor lighting and topography. This application is ideal for home designing, remodeling, decorating and landscaping.

1. Home Designer Suite

For its wide range of features, Home Design Suite deserves to be first on our list of top architectural design software. With this application, you can make your home design from scratch or use over 1,500 floor plan samples. These sample floor plans are customizable, allowing you to change or add doors, windows, walls and objects. With the Home Design Suite, you can also design decks, patios, yards and other outdoor spaces.

Before designing your dream home, consider our list of top architectural design software applications for this year and find out which one is best for you. And if you would, please come back here and share with us your experience with it.

About the author: This blog post about the top architectural design software is shared to you by Vagueware.com – a website that gives unbiased review and important information about software and programs that will make your life easier, more efficient, and more profitable!