CAD Lets You Virtually See What You Envision

By Jeff Billstrom

One of the items in my Sales Design Consultant toolbox that homeowners really appreciate is my CAD (computer aided drawing) software.

What this does is bring architectural drawings and design blueprints to 3D virtual reality.  Through the computer screen, homeowners can virtually walk through their home to see the areas as they will look after the project is completed.

We use a software program called Chief Architect that allows us to show the space from any angle and change colors, finishes, and textures quickly.  Want to see how a black granite countertop will look with alder cabinets or how contrasting woods or finishes impact the space?  Easily done with a few simple keystrokes.  We can even adjust the lighting so you can see what the space looks like during daylight hours and evening hours and adjust brightness to show the reflection off different materials, like the countertops or backsplashes.

When planning for an addition, many homeowners are concerned about how it will impact their current outdoor views.  By importing photographs into the program, we can show you exactly what your view will be from inside and out.  We can give you a view with the roof off so you can look down into the remodeled space, too.

One of the biggest benefits is you can actually see how the space will look as it will be lived in.  For example, we can plug in the furniture you have envisioned for the space.  Sometimes this results in an expansion of the footprint or rethinking the furnishings to accommodate accessibility in the room.  It’s a lot easier to do it on-screen rather than moving heavy furniture around to get the right placement.

While virtually designing on the computer seems easy and is a great time-saver, it is important to point out that drafting and designing are learned skills.  There are no shortcuts to creating a well-thought out design.  CAD is a great tool, but it’s not a substitute for skill and experience that a design-build remodeling firm like Callen offers.

Just as important is undertaking a remodeling project with a Sales Design Consultant/builder who listens to you, communicates to you, understands your vision, and establishes trust to get you through the design and construction process.