Floor plans provide an aerial, scaled-down illustration of a space.
They can be comprehensive, like a house blueprint, showing all interior and exterior space, or granular, like an apartment floor plan, visualizing how a space might looking once it’s finished and furnished.
Floor plans are usually drafted by architects and used by builders and contractors, interior designers and real estate agents.
The purpose of a floor plan is to give a representation of how a space is set up in terms of fixtures, dimensions and spatial relationships. They help people understand whether areas are suited for their intended purpose. For example, shared office workspace planners must take into consideration both functionality and inspiration to get ahead of the competition by offering tangible, desirable coworking space benefits.
As you can imagine, creating floor plans can be laborious.
Enter: Floor plan software.
Floor plan software has myriad uses, including office space planning, facility plant floor planning, and venue management planning. Even parking lots benefit from floor planning!
(This post will focus specifically on architectural and real estate design planning. Software that facilitates warehouse and equipment floor planning is a different topic.)
Happily, free floor plan solutions exist. Some are bundled within comprehensive CAD software solutions while some are add-ons or standalone tools.
The products listed above span multiple categories on G2. Categories sampled include: general-purpose CAD software, building design and building Information modeling (BIM) software, diagramming software, and real estate virtual tour software. The 11 products listed here have more than 100 validated user reviews on G2 as of Jan. 17, 2019. They represent a small portion of both the 22 sampled categories (and a whopping 2,900-plus reviews) and overall number of categories and user-generated reviews on our platform.
Products are ranked by number of reviews, then by satisfaction score, then alphabetically.
For each product we provide:
For products with G2 verified user reviews, we have included:
The list we’ve outlined here includes any CAD, BIM, architecture or construction solution with an available free offering. It should be noted that this does not include products that are only free on a temporary basis, such as limited trial versions for new users. They may only support one user or one project, but they’re truly free offerings. Scaling, however, will often require full investments.
Product Name: SketchUp Free
G2 Star Rating: 4.4 out of 5.0 stars
Number of Reviews: 281
SketchUp is a user-friendly 3D design tool that is used for drafting and modeling, designed to emulate the feel and freedom of working with pen and paper. All versions of SketchUp, including SketchUp Free, can be used in any industry that benefits from drawing and modeling applications. Therefore, SketchUp can be used in any stage of the construction design process by architects, designers, builders, and engineers.
Image courtesy of SketchUp
“SketchUp has been a wonderful platform to project architectural and interior design ideas in. It is so easy to use and easy to learn. If there is a tool or something that I don't know how to do there is always a free tutorial you are able to find online. I do multiple projects in a week and need a program where you can import CAD files or JPEG floorplans, quickly select walls and build up. This is a great because I can use quick shots of the different views in my presentations.”
— SketchUp review by a user in design.
“I don't like the quality of rendering in SketchUp. It makes it difficult to use when trying to create a final presentation, which forced us to buy a plug-in.”
— SketchUp review by Emily S.
“Highly recommend to beginners and even pros. It is a cheap way to design in 3D if you cannot afford other products. I would like to recommend to add more help videos on the features and how to do steps.”
— SketchUp review by Mark E.
Product Name: AutoCAD Architecture
G2 Star Rating: 4.1 out of 5.0 stars
Number of Reviews: 121
AutoCAD Architecture adds to the features of AutoCAD a toolset that’s tailored to the needs of an architect. It leverages AEC (architecture, engineering and construction) objects (that is, walls, doors, and windows) as design elements and uses those symbols to create realistic and spatially aware, three-dimensional floor plans.
Image courtesy of AutoDesk
“The final output for most users of this software is going to be constructing documents for building projects. What I like the best about AutoCAD Architecture is its ability to let you draw using a multitude of tools, objects, blocks, and components. AutoCAD Architecture gives you the ability to draw using "dumb" objects like lines and shapes or using "smart" objects like walls and windows that have information embedded in them, and pushes towards the BIM avenue of software. AutoCAD Architecture features a variety of import/export features and is very compatible with most other leading CAD software.”
— AutoCAD Architecture review by a user in architecture & planning
“I somewhat dislike not being to render a finished design product like in REVIT Architecture, and still having to import/export plans in and out of the program to achieve a well-rounded product for the client.”
— AutoCAD Architecture review by Jack E.P.
“For smaller projects and simple floor plans and diagrams, AutoCAD Architecture is a great product. However, for more complex, smarter projects, look into other 3D programs such as Revit Architecture.”
— AutoCAD Architecture review by a user in architecture & planning
Product Name: AutoDesk Civil 3D
G2 Star Rating: 4.2 out of 5.0 stars
Number of Reviews: 113
Civil 3D from AutoDesk is a BIM solution designed for civil engineering design and construction companies, but its features can technically be used to create a 3D house plan. However, because Civil 3D provides users with a set of surveying and civil engineering tools, house plans will most likely not produce the detailed floor plans that more granular design companies prefer.
Image courtesy of AutoDesk Civil 3D
Civil 3D’s license can either be purchased as a monthly or yearly subscription
“As far as I know, it is one of the best software for drawings. It helps structural engineers and architects point out specific details [in] layouts and plans. [Helps deliver] more design alternatives in less time.”
— Civil 3D review by a user in civil engineering
“Everything is driven by styles, so it takes a long time to dig in deep to get the content and data to display correctly.”
— Civil 3D review by Eric D.
“I am creating floor plans for hotels, libraries, and schools. I've realized Civil 3D is not universal but the fact that it’s under AutoDesk allows it to be compatible with all of AutoDesk’s other products. That's the beauty of it; if you can’t get certain things in one software, you can get it in another and transfer it.”
— Civil 3D review by Saad S.
Product Name: AutoCAD LT
G2 Star Rating: 4.0 out of 5.0 stars
Number of Reviews: 105
AutoCAD LT is a 2D CAD drafting and documentation software that can be used on either a Windows or Mac operating system. Essentially, AutoCAD LT is the 2D version of AutoCAD, a stripped-down version with a lower price tag. However, AutoCAD LT still fulfills the technical diagramming and drafting needs of contractors and construction companies.
Image courtesy of AutoCAD LT
AutoCAD LT’s license can either be purchased as a monthly or yearly subscription.
“As always, this product is a must for anyone who is in an industry that requires planning and design for building structures, construction, and things of that nature. It is easy to use and offers a lot of features, some of which I haven't even discovered yet. It makes drafting and designing a lot faster, especially if you're making complex designs and floor plans.”
— AutoCAD LT review by Sheilla C.
“I think the hatch feature needs some tweaking. Often times the program won't hatch, thinking my lines don't meet up when in fact they do.”
— AutoCAD LT review by Jennifer B.
“If you're looking for a drafting tool to produce 2D drawings and you do not need 3D or customization, AutoCAD LT is the way to go.”
— AutoCAD LT review by User in Architecture & Planning
Product Name: SmartDraw
G2 Star Rating: 3.9 out of 5.0 stars
Number of Reviews: 23
SmartDraw is an org chart maker that offers an online floor plan creator for easy use, sharing and collaboration. SmartDraw’s chart and diagram templates are used to create visuals for businesses that are simple to present. Its floor plan creator can be used by anyone with an internet connection and comes equipped with architectural design symbols and file sharing applications.
Image courtesy of SmartDraw
“SmartDraw is easy to use and doesn't take long to learn. It is a product that can be used by a person beginning in CAD systems to do simple drawings and learn to draw simple floor plans … The product has useful help features and a good library of furnishings to show in the floor plan to help indicate size or scale.”
— SmartDraw review by a user
“There really isn't that much to choose from when you get down to it. Many of the graphics are so specific that I could never see myself ever having use for them. I also found that the graphics are so specific that customizing them is extremely hard. There were also many issues with choosing colors, margins, and text. I hate how it doesn't do spell check and how hard it is to find icons.”
— SmartDraw review by a user in nonprofit organization management
“Look at your use cases carefully. Do you do detailed flow charting? Visio is better. Do you do project planning with interdependencies? Project is better. Do you need to do a lot of quick and simple diagrams or mind maps? Then this tool can work for you.”
— SmartDraw review by a user in information technology and services
Product Name: Sweet Home 3D
G2 Star Rating: 3.9 out of 5.0 stars
Number of Reviews: 10
Sweet Home 3D is an open-source interior design application that can either be downloaded or used in a web browser. As its name implies, it allows users to view the finished 2D floor plans in 3D for context and presentation. Sweet Home 3D is designed to be used by non-professionals. The program runs on Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems.
Image courtesy of SweetHome 3D
“There are many good things about this software: it has thousands of models to create 3D interior models, is very easy to use, [and] the interface runs so smoothly. It is very light, but the graphics can be great. There is [a] browser version [that] runs very smoothly too. It has very good performance, and doesn't require a high-end computer. The best thing about Sweet Home 3D is the lightmap. It is a very cheap software, but so useful.”
— Sweet Home 3D review by Rebeca C.
“It does not comply with the parameters and requirements for projects with professional appearance. Its scope is limited, its preset tools are not flexible, and designing environments is a task that leaves you unsatisfied with the result… The gallery of objects available for insertion have a discontinued appearance; they do not correspond with the current market of available products.”
— Sweet Home 3D review by Michael S.
“Definitely consider other products on the market and look at more expensive products. The price increase for a better product might be worth it for some consumers. On the other hand, the program does work fairly well without too many bells and whistles. It can be a great bargain for those on a budget.”
— Sweet Home 3D review by Bruce E.
Product Name: Draft it Free
G2 Star Rating: 5.0 out of 5.0 stars
Number of Reviews: 1
Draft it, from cadlogic, is a full-featured, 2D CAD drawing software that provides architects with 3D modeling, drafting, and detailing tools. Draft it equips architects with powerful drawing tools and supports the import of AutoCAD files and various design components and symbols. Users can leverage Draft it’s four editions to get the most bang for their buck.
Image courtesy of cadlogic
“A user-friendly 2D architectural CAD platform. [Provides] basic floor plan diagramming capabilities. Great for non-technical staff to cut their teeth on. Supports imperial and metric units.”
— Draft it review by Corinne H.
“Layering tools are not intuitive. Automatic 3D Model Viewer is not exactly automatic.”
— Draft it review by Corinne H.
“Try it before you spend thousands on another package. Determine exactly what tools you must have and what you're willing to pay for them.”
— Draft it review by Corinne H.
Product Name: Floorplanner
G2 Star Rating: 4.0 out of 5.0 stars
Number of Reviews: 1
Floorplanner makes it easy to create floor plans in 2D and 3D and then share interactive versions of those floor plans online. Floorplanner comes equipped with an “auto-furnish” feature that lets you easily decorate rooms within your floor plan. Floorplanner’s completed floor plans look professional and polished, ready for presentation.
Image courtesy of Floorplanner
“FloorPlanner is a great tool for quick, easy designs with lots of features. Its apps in Google Chrome and iPad are a great addition to the web tool. The drag and drop function in the design view is amazing. The navigation between design features, floors, and view options are a big plus.”
— Floorplanner review by Margie A.
“New features, like the new dashboard, need more attention; it's still very buggy and doesn't quite work all the time.”
— Floorplanner review by Margie A.
Product Name: RoomSketcher (formerly RoomSketcher Home Designer)
G2 Star Rating: 3.5 out of 5.0 stars
Number of Reviews: 1
RoomSketcher (formerly RoomSketcher Home Designer) design application allows users to create floor plans and home designs in 3D. Both professionals and individuals can use RoomSketcher’s floor plans, 360-degree view photos, and interactive 3D walkthroughs. RoomSketcher users can rely on floor plans that come equipped with accurate measurements, render those plans in 3D and panorama, and even customize the finished home design with custom colors and textures.
Image courtesy of RoomSketcher
“The ease of use in the program to make spaces for clients to review.”
— RoomSketcher review by Rachel T.
“Some of the features [need to] be adjusted to make it [easier] to use.”
— RoomSketcher review by Rachel T.
“The product needs to improve on speed.”
— RoomSketcher review by Rachel T.
Product Name: PlanningWiz Floor Planner
G2 Star Rating: 3.5 out of 5.0 stars
Number of Reviews: 1
PlanningWiz offers both floor plan design services and a floor planner solution. The software can be used when designing both indoor or outdoor spaces. PlanningWiz is designed to handle the intricacies that specific industries might require when planning blueprints. It also offers tailored editions for designers in specific industries like property development or recreational facilities.
Image courtesy of PlanningWiz
“The application is a WYSIWYG, which means ‘What You See Is What You Get’ so for people used to drawing things in PowerPoint or similar programs, it can be very friendly.”
— PlanningWiz Floor Planner by Juan Pablo A.
“The software is missing a premium look and feel and, depending on your version, your number of saved plans can be limited. Sharing is available only by saving a plan or downloading it in medium resolution unless you have a business account. Some more ‘help’ options are also missing. You have to figure out how to use it, although it is very easy to use.”
— PlanningWiz Floor Planner by Juan Pablo A.
“Great for quick design planning. Make sure to check on the limitations for the different plans. Also, keep in mind that the look and feel might not be the most polished and the plans can then be downloaded to be shared.”
— PlanningWiz Floor Planner by Juan Pablo A.
Product Name: Roomle 3D Floor Planner
G2 Star Rating: N/A
Roomle is a digital, 3D configurator that helps furniture designers advertise and display their stock. Roomle’s 2D and 3D room planning module helps real estate agents and interior designers use high-quality, engaging visuals to create interactive floor plans. Roomle’s floor planner supports virtual walkthroughs and easy sharing capabilities.
Image courtesy of Roomle
Determine what kind of software will best suit your floor plan needs. Are you an architectural firm who needs to create high-quality renderings of potential floor plans for your commercial real estate client? Are you a homeowner who wants to plan a renovation? Are you a real estate agent who needs to create and maintain both 2D and 3D floor plans to share with potential buyers?
Once you’ve determined your design needs, you must figure out your budget and your absolute “must haves.” Free floor plan solutions offer comparable functionality to paid floor plan software. It’s just a matter of whether your needs will be met with a scaled-down version of design tools.
Curious about the American software business? Check out our roundup on American Software Business today!
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