Introduction
Whether you’re an architecture student, budding interior designer, or homeowner looking to renovate, having access to quality design software doesn’t need to break the bank. In today’s digital age, there are dozens of powerful free and open source programs that offer core 3D modeling, CAD drafting, visualization, and collaboration tools to bring your design visions to life. In this post, we’ll explore 15 of the best free interior design software options on the market based on features and community popularity.
Methods of Evaluation
To determine the top 15 free interior design software programs, we evaluated each option based on the following conventional criteria: features and tools available, ease of use, file compatibility with industry standard formats, customization and extensibility through plugins or scripting, online/offline capabilities, and overall community support through user base, documentation, and forum activity. Additionally, we factored in modern ranking signals like number of monthly website visitors and backlinks, keyword trends, and traffic from popular digital design resources to identify the most relevant and widely adopted solutions.
1. SOLIDWORKS Edu
SOLIDWORKS Edu is a 3D CAD design and engineering software offered by Siemens for educational purposes. With SOLIDWORKS Edu, students and educational institutions can access the industry-leading 3D CAD tools for free during their education.
Pros: Some key advantages of SOLIDWORKS Edu include:
– 3D parametric design engine for easy part modeling
– Educational license provides free access for learning
– Includes advanced rendering and analysis tools to explore designs
Cons: The main disadvantage is that SOLIDWORKS Edu is only available for educational purposes – organizations and commercial users need a paid license.
Pricing: SOLIDWORKS Edu is offered completely free of charge to qualified students and educational institutions. This helps remove financial barriers and allows hands-on experience with professional 3D CAD tools during the learning process.
Some key stats about SOLIDWORKS Edu include:
– Available for free to qualified students and educational institutions
– Full-featured 3D CAD toolset same as paid commercial SOLIDWORKS
– Includes parametric design, assembly modeling, simulation, rendering and other tools
2. Blender
Blender is a free and open-source 3D creation suite available for all major operating systems including Windows, MacOS, and Linux. Initially developed as a 3D animation package, Blender has grown into a fully-fledged 3D content creation software with modeling, rigging, animation, simulation, rendering, compositing and motion tracking functionality. Over the past few decades, it has developed into a professional level 3D content pipeline.
Pros: Some of the main advantages of Blender include:
– Fully-featured 3D content creation software at no monetary cost
– Large community support and regular updates
– Ability to work with numerous file formats including OBJ, FBX and others
– Powerful modeling tools for hard surface and organic modeling
– Extensive animation tools for rigging, character animation, motion capture etc
– Cycles renderer for photorealistic rendering
– Integrates with plugins/addons that provide Premium/Pro features
Cons: The key disadvantage of Blender is its notably steeper learning curve compared to paid alternatives. As a free and open source project developed by volunteers, it may lack some streamlined workflows and integrated functionality found in commercial packages. The interface also takes time to become familiar with.
Pricing: Blender is completely free to use without any subscription or licensing fees. While it offers professional-grade 3D modeling, animation, and rendering capabilities – there are no rental or ongoing costs associated with owning and using the software.
Some key facts about Blender include:
– Free and open source software available for all major operating systems
– Actively developed by its user community since 1995
– Used widely for 3D animation films, visual effects, art, visualizations, research and architectural applications
– Rendered feature films like Big Buck Bunny, Sintel, Tears of Steel and many other award winning shorts
BlenderThe Freedom to Createblender.org
3. Inkscape
Inkscape is a popular free and open-source vector graphics editor, allowing you to create Scalable Vector Graphics (SVG) files. SVG allows for resolution-independent, lossless scaling of images – meaning graphics created in Inkscape can be scaled to any size without loss of quality.
Pros: Some key advantages of using Inkscape include:
– It’s completely free and open source
– Excellent for technical drawings and digital illustrations that require scalability
– Supports many advanced drawing tools like Bézier curves, blending, extensions for adding new functionality
– Imports and exports major file formats like SVG, PDF, PNG, JPEG
Cons: The main disadvantage is that as an open source project, it lacks some features found in paid alternatives like Adobe Illustrator. For example, its interface may not be as polished or intuitive for beginners compared to paid options.
Pricing: Inkscape is completely free to download and use, with no limits on commercial or personal use. There is no paid subscription available – development is supported by donations from users.
Some key facts about Inkscape include:
– Used by over 1 million users worldwide
– Available for Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems
– Actively developed by a volunteer team of programmers
– Free to download and use for both personal and commercial projects
4. DraftSight
DraftSight is a free 2D CAD software developed by Dassault Systèmes. It allows users to view, edit and create 2D technical drawings.
Pros: Some key advantages of DraftSight include:
– It is completely free to use with no time limits or watermarks.
– Compatible with the most commonly used DWG file format.
– Includes parametric drafting tools for creating customizable drawings.
– Simple and intuitive interface making it easy for both beginners and professionals.
– Allows basic 3D modeling in addition to 2D drafting.
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that it only supports basic 3D modeling capabilities and not advanced 3D modeling features available in paid CAD software.
Pricing: DraftSight is completely free to download and use with no subscription or licensing fees. The software is freely available on the Dassault Systèmes website.
Some key stats about DraftSight include:
– Over 10 million downloads worldwide
– Compatible with DWG and DXF file formats
– Used across various industries like engineering, architecture, manufacturing etc.
– Available on both Windows and Mac operating systems.
5. TinkerCAD
Tinkercad is a free, browser-based 3D modeling tool created by AutoDesk. Launched in 2011, Tinkercad provides an easy to use interface that enables users to design 3D models using geometric primitives without needing to know CG or programming languages.
Pros: Some key advantages of using Tinkercad include:
– It’s completely free to use with no hidden costs or premium subscriptions required.
– Easy to use interface makes it suitable for beginners and professionals alike with no prior 3D modeling experience needed.
– Web browser based so it can be accessed from any computer without additional software downloads.
Cons: The main disadvantage of Tinkercad is the limitation in features compared to paid professional 3D modeling software. Advanced tools like solid modeling, parametric constraints, and complex assemblies are not supported.
Pricing: Tinkercad is free to use for both personal and commercial purposes. There are no charges or hidden costs for any of its features.
Some key stats about Tinkercad include:
– Used by over 15 million students, educators, makers and designers worldwide each month.
– Supports collaboration allowing multiple users to work on the same design project simultaneously.
– Models can be exported in .STL format which is compatible with 3D printing.
6. Lucidchart
Lucidchart is an online diagramming software that allows users to create a variety of visuals such as flowcharts, mockups, and UML diagrams. Founded in 2006, Lucidchart is one of the pioneers in online diagramming and visual collaboration. With over 15 million users, it provides an accessible and intuitive interface to bring ideas to life through visuals.
Pros: Some key advantages of Lucidchart include:
– Wide range of visually appealing templates for creating flowcharts, floor plans, network diagrams, and more
– Ability to import CAD files directly into diagrams
– Real-time collaboration allows multiple users to work on diagrams simultaneously
– Presentation quality outputs that can be exported to PNG, JPG, PDF and more formats
Cons: A potential disadvantage is that the free plan only allows access to basic features and has limitations such as maximum file size of 2MB and 2 concurrent editors. For advanced capabilities, an annual paid subscription is required.
Pricing: Lucidchart offers the following pricing plans:
– Free Plan: Allows access to basic features but with limitations
– Personal: $9.95/month billed annually
– Business: $15/month billed annually
– Enterprise: Custom pricing for larger teams
Some key stats about Lucidchart include:
– Over 15 million users worldwide
– Available online with apps for Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android
– Integrates with over 100 tools like Google Docs, Dropbox, Box, and Microsoft Office
– Supports over 50 diagram types including organization charts, network diagrams, and floor plans
7. MakerBot Print
MakerBot Print is 3D printing software developed by MakerBot, a leader in desktop 3D printing. The software is designed to work seamlessly with MakerBot’s line of 3D printers to simplify the 3D printing process.
Pros: Some key advantages of MakerBot Print include:
– Easy to use interface makes 3D printing accessible
– Remote printing and camera monitoring from any device
– Optimized profiles take the guesswork out of settings
– Seamless integration with MakerBot printers for reliable results
Cons: A potential disadvantage is that MakerBot Print is designed specifically for MakerBot printers only, so it may not be compatible with other printer brands.
Pricing: MakerBot Print is free to download and use. It includes basic functionality for preparing, slicing, and printing 3D models on MakerBot desktop 3D printers.
Some key stats about MakerBot Print include:
– Works with all MakerBot desktop 3D printers
– Intuitive interface for preparing, slicing, and printing 3D models
– Camera functionality allows monitoring prints remotely
– Over 30 optimized printer profiles for quality prints
8. Reallusion HomeStyler
Reallusion HomeStyler is an interior design software that allows users to design and decorate home interiors in 3D. Users can visualize their home renovation and decorating projects virtually before making any purchases or changes to their real homes. Reallusion HomeStyler offers an easy-to-use interface and has a large catalog of high-quality 3D furniture, appliance, decor and plant assets to design realistic home interiors.
Pros: Some key advantages of using Reallusion HomeStyler include:
– Easy to use interface suitable for beginners as well as professionals
– Large catalog of vector-based, photorealistic 3D assets for furniture, appliances, decor etc.
– Cloud-based so designs can be accessed from any device anytime
– Integrated room measurements tool for precision in floor plan layout
– Ability to visualize designs in 3D from any angle before implementing changes
Cons: A potential disadvantage is that as a free version, there are some limitations such as watermark on renderings, smaller asset library and export options compared to paid tiers.
Pricing: Reallusion HomeStyler offers both free and paid subscription plans:
– Free Plan – Allows basic room designing with watermarks on renderings
– Professional Plan – $9.99/month – Removes watermarks, access to full library
– Enterprise Plan – Custom pricing – For professional firms and developers
Some key features and stats of Reallusion HomeStyler include:
– Online cloud-based design platform with mobile app access
– Over 5,000 3D furniture, decor and appliance assets to choose from
– Real-time rendering engine for photorealistic 3D visualization
– Room measurements tool to lay out designs to scale
– Library of customizable room designs and themes
9. Ashampoo Home Design 3
Ashampoo Home Design 3 is an interior design software that allows both professional designers and home owners to plan and design room layouts in 2D and 3D. It provides a wide range of functionality to help visualize potential home improvement projects.
Pros: Some key advantages of Ashampoo Home Design 3 include:
– Beginner-friendly interface that is easy to learn
– Large library of high-quality 3D assets to include in designs
– Powerful yet user-friendly tools for 2D/3D room planning
– Integrated landscape design functions for exterior design
– Freehand drawing tools for custom furniture and fixtures
Cons: A potential disadvantage is that as free software, it has less advanced and professional features compared to paid interior design programs.
Pricing: Ashampoo Home Design 3 is available completely free to download and use with no time limitations or premium upgrades required.
Some key stats and features of Ashampoo Home Design 3 include:
– Support for both 2D and 3D interior and exterior design
– Over 4,000 professional furniture, object and plant templates
– Ability to import and export major file types like DXF and PDF
– Easy-to-use tools and interface designed for beginners
10. SmartDraw
SmartDraw is a leading interior design software that provides users with the tools needed for floor planning, home remodeling, and space planning projects. In business since 1991, SmartDraw offers a comprehensive set of features for drafting floor plans, designing home layouts, and visualizing interior designs.
Pros: Some key advantages of SmartDraw include: it offers free basic floor plan templates that can be used to draft initial layout concepts, it includes collaboration tools that allow teams to work together remotely in real-time, users can import floor plans as images to trace over or extract dimensions, basic 3D renderings are provided to help visualize design ideas.
Cons: A potential disadvantage is that some of the more advanced features like 3D room design, photorealistic renders, and detailed materials/furniture libraries require a paid premium plan.
Pricing: SmartDraw offers both free and paid premium plans. The free plan provides access to basic floor plan templates and export/sharing features. Premium plans start at $14.95/month and unlock additional templates, collaboration capabilities, 3D modeling tools, and integrated materials libraries.
Some key stats about SmartDraw include: used by over 35 million people worldwide, available on Windows and Mac desktops as well as the web, offers over 6,000 templates and clip art images for various design projects, integrates collaboration tools like commenting and file sharing.
11. Materialize Magics
Materialize Magics is an interior design software that utilizes 3D printing technology to help designers create prototypes and visualizations of their design concepts. Founded in 1990 and headquartered in Belgium, Materialize Magics has become a leader in 3D printing software over the past 30+ years.
Pros: Some key advantages of using Materialize Magics include:
– Ability to 3D print prototypes and models for a tangible experience
– Sophisticated analysis tools to optimize and test designs
– Wide file format support for quick design transfers
– Intuitive interface optimized for 3D design workflows
Cons: A potential disadvantage is that the software is better suited for industrial uses rather than basic home/hobby 3D printing due to its complexity and price. It may have a steeper learning curve compared to more beginner-friendly options.
Pricing: Materialize Magics offers both perpetual licensing and subscription plans for its software. Pricing varies based on selected modules and seat quantities with quotes available for enterprise solutions. It also provides free educational and startup program licenses.
Some key stats about Materialize Magics include:
– Used by over 10,000 companies worldwide
– Has printed over 100 million 3D printed parts
– Supports all major 3D printer formats
– Integrates with popular 3D design software like AutoCAD, SolidWorks, etc.
12. FreeCAD
FreeCAD is a free and open-source parametric 3D modeler made primarily for product design and engineering. Unlike other interior design software that costs money or has limited free versions, FreeCAD is completely free to use without limitations.
Pros: Some key advantages of using FreeCAD include:
– It’s completely free both for personal and commercial use
– Being parametric means the 3D models can be easily modified later
– Large active community for help and support
– Open source means the code is auditable and customizable
– Support for collaborative workflows through a built-in document system
Cons: The main disadvantage of FreeCAD is that it does not have as many tools and features as paid interior design software. The interface and tools are more geared toward engineering than interior design workflows.
Pricing: FreeCAD is completely free to download and use without any limitations. There are no monthly or annual subscription fees.
Some key stats about FreeCAD include:
– Over 10 years in development
– Used by over 2 million users worldwide
– Support for all major 3D file formats like STEP, IGES, STL, OBJetc.
– Runs on Windows, Mac and Linux
– Python scripting for automation and customization
FreeCAD: Your own 3D parametric modelerFreeCAD, the open source 3D parametric modelerfreecadweb.org
13. Edraw Max
Edraw Max is a free and easy-to-use diagramming and vector graphic software for professionals and home users. It allows users to create professional-looking flowcharts, mind maps, organization charts, network diagrams, floor plans, and more. The free version of Edraw Max provides users with a rich set of features and templates to visually communicate complex information simply and effectively.
Pros: Main advantages of using Edraw Max include: visual communication tool for explaining complex subjects simply; rich library of pre-made floor plan templates to get started quickly; large furniture and electrical symbols library for floor plans; advanced rendering and layered features for detailed architectural and engineering drawings; ability to collaborate and share diagrams online in real-time.
Cons: The free version of Edraw Max has some limitations compared to the paid versions such as: watermarked output files; limited number of editable elements in diagrams; lack of premium technical support.
Pricing: Edraw Max offers both free and paid versions. The free version provides full access to basic diagramming features while the Standard, Professional and Enterprise editions starting from $99/year offer additional advanced capabilities, technical support and no watermarks on output files.
Some key stats and features of Edraw Max include: more than 30 diagram types and 550 templates; over 5,000 vector symbols and icons; real-time collaboration and sharing capabilities; advanced rendering features for detailed floor plans; import/export to over 20 file formats.
14. ArchiCAD
ArchiCAD is a building information modeling (BIM) software developed and sold by Graphisoft. Launched in 1987, it was one of the first BIM software solutions on the market. ArchiCAD allows architects, designers, engineers, and contractors to design, view, document, and manage building projects in 3D.
Pros: Key advantages of using ArchiCAD include:
– Full-featured BIM software for 2D and 3D architectural design
– Real-time collaborative tools allow teams to work together seamlessly on projects
– Ability to generate high-quality photorealistic renderings and visualizations directly from 3D models
– Extensive built-in library of spec sheets and materials to choose from
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that the upfront investment in a commercial ArchiCAD license may be prohibitive for some small firms or independent architects on a budget. However, a free 45-day trial is available to demo the full capabilities.
Pricing: Pricing for ArchiCAD starts at around $1,000 for an individual license. Discounted educational and commercial volume licenses are also available. As mentioned, a free 45-day trial can be downloaded from the Graphisoft website without any obligations.
Some key stats and facts about ArchiCAD include:
– Over 500,000 licensed users globally across 140 countries
– Supports all major architectural project phases from conceptual design to construction drawings and documentation
– Integrates directly with other Graphisoft solutions like AECOsim Building Designer for MEP modeling
ArchiCADGraphisoft Solutions Graphisoft Services Help & Supportgraphisoft.com
15. OpenSCAD
OpenSCAD is a free and open-source 3D modeling software focused on constructive solid geometry (CSG). It offers a script-based user interface to describe objects using CSG primitives like cubes, cylinders, spheres etc and to perform Boolean operations like union, intersection and subtraction on them.
Pros: The main advantages of using OpenSCAD include:
– It’s completely free to use with no restrictions
– Supports Boolean operations which makes it easy to combine 3D objects
– Uses a scripting language interface which offers flexibility and parametric modeling abilities
– Great for complex mechanical parts and objects with plenty of customizable parameters
Cons: The key disadvantage is that OpenSCAD does not have a graphical user interface for interactively modifying designs. Everything must be done through code scripts which has a learning curve for non-programmers.
Pricing: OpenSCAD is completely free and open source. There is no commercial licensing or pricing required to download and use the software.
Some key stats about OpenSCAD include:
– Free and open source software available for Windows, Mac and Linux
– Used by engineers, designers and hobbyists for 3D printing and prototyping
– Large community support with over 25,000 stars on GitHub
Conclusion
Whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned pro, there’s a capable free interior design software for any budget. This list covers 2D CAD, 3D modeling, visualization, floor planning, rendering, and collaboration tools to help bring your interior projects to life without breaking the bank. The top programs offer robust tools rivaling paid competitors while empowering creative individuals and small businesses through open source values. Be sure to explore demo versions and vibrant user communities as you find the perfect match to unleash your design potential.