Photo cut

Best Free Architectural Design Software Picks in 2024

Architectural design software is highly central in the designs of buildings, structures, and spaces. With architectural design tools, one can come up with almost any size and purpose space without the construction company's help. Free architecture software ensures how a property will look after construction. They can be able to design a house, an apartment, an office, or a playground, and you're able to draw this as a 2D drawing or even 3D architectural design. Professional-grade quality costs, but there are also excellent free options from which aspiring architects, students, and DIY enthusiasts can turn architectural design ideas into reality. Below we show you the top 8 free architectural design software.

Download the app, NOW!

Trusted by teams around the world
A collage of top free architectural design software options from 2024, showcasing user-friendly interfaces and features.
Trusted by teams around the world

Step 1

Step 2

Step 3

8 Best Free Architectural Design Software in 2024 | PhotoCut

Top 8 Free Architectural Design Software

PhotoCut

Screenshot of a web page displaying a photo editor app interface with various editing tools and options visible.

PhotoCut is one of the best free architectural design software that specializes in 2D and 3D architectural design, it offers a user-friendly interface with abundant tools to edit architectural design. Using the AI architecture generator on PhotoCut, you can sketch and render detailed floor plans experiment with a full variety of materials and textures, and check out what your projects look like in 3D. It also provides lighting simulation features that allow you to analyze the impact of natural and artificial light on your architectural design projects.

PhotoCut is, therefore not only an architectural design tool but also gives an AI image generator that would come in handy to the designer. The AI image generator is specially designed with algorithms and processes that produce some nice and realistic images based on user text inputs. The most fantastic feature here is that the AI image generator is very simple to use and does not, in any way, require technical skills to get things done. Simply input your specifications, and let the AI do the rest of the work for you.

Now, you can imagine simple specifications where interior design concepts could be developed. You don't have to waste time and effort generating multiple design options and exploring all possibilities before finalizing your architectural project with the PhotoCuts AI image generator.

Pros:

  • It can be accessed for free.
  • Iterative design architecture.
  • Integrated effects, color grading compositor.
  • Powerful built-in photo editing tools and graphic elements help you customize your architectural design.

SketchUp

A collage showcasing top free 3D design software options, featuring user-friendly interfaces and creative tools.

SketchUp is a free architectural design software that can be used to create and edit 2D and 3D architectural projects, interior models, furniture, and landscapes. It provides a user-friendly interface and a wide range of tools for creating architectural designs. Users can use the title blocks to draw plans, facades and sections, and building details, and complete them.

SketchUp offers a range of architecture design tools for modeling, texturing, and rendering, making it a valuable resource for both beginners and experienced architects. It isn’t difficult to learn and generates clear 3D pictures. Each object, surface, and material has a unique texture. Its straightforward interface will appeal to architects, designers, builders, and engineers at any stage of architecture design.

Pros:

  • It assists you with layer management animations and 3D models.
  • Layer management, animations, and 3D models.
  • Lighting effects, textures, customizable palettes
  • Offers exchange repository

Cons:

  • The free version is only offered on web browsers.
  • Recognition of uneven shapes and rendering.

Blender

Download the free version of Blender 4.2 LTS, a powerful tool for 3D modeling and animation.

Blender is a powerful open-source free architectural design software that provides comprehensive 3D modeling and compositing capabilities. While it may have a steeper learning curve compared to other software, Blender offers advanced features for architectural design visualization. It allows for precise modeling, realistic rendering, and even animation of architectural design. With its vast array of tools and plugins, Blender empowers architects to create stunning and immersive visualizations.

This flexible tool will work well for both bigger architecture design firms and self-employed professionals and students. It is highly customizable and can be enhanced with a variety of free community-developed extensions.

Pros:

  • Free, cross-platform, open-source
  • Geometric modeling as per 3D architectural design models
  • Animation toolset, simulation, and compositing

Cons:

  • Unusual selection system

FreeCAD

Download free CAD software for design and drafting projects, enhancing your creative workflow effortlessly.

FreeCAD is a free three-dimensional modeling program that has many architectural design functionalities. Since FreeCAD is modular, users can customize it using plugins and workbenches. In BIM tools, the software ensures that architects can provide exact measurements and content with smart three-dimensional models. For architectural design purposes, FreeCAD would be best used on complex structures and simulation of how those individual elements could collaborate to form entire and visualize its work.

FreeCAD is a great tool for professionals and hobbyists, as it can be applied in designing, architecture building, machine building, etc.

Pros:

  • Customizable modular architecture.
  • Geometry kernel, parametric model.
  • It is free and open-source with cross-platform.

Cons:

  • Need to open Bluetooth all the time.
  • IFC export isn’t fully implemented

SweetHome 3D

Screenshot of the game website showcasing its layout and design elements.

SweetHome 3D is a free architecture software specifically designed for interior design. It is not strong in architectural modeling features compared with other programs but can draw extremely detailed interior spaces. SweetHome 3D can offer a plentiful library of furniture, textures, and objects to be used immediately when drawing up and visualizing interior layout ideas. Moreover, you can even make good quality accurate 3D rendering for a realistic preview.

Users can import a property plan or start drawing a new one, enjoy drawing walls or edit existing ones, and add doors, windows, and furniture. Besides, the free architectural design software enables users to import additional 3D models from other sources and export plans to various widespread formats.

Pros:

  • Multilingual, open-source, and expandable via plugins.
  • One can be able to print and export PDFs, bitmaps, and videos.
  • Update colors, texture, size, and orientation of furniture.

Cons:

  • The scope and development of environments are restricted.

AutoCAD

Image of AutoCAD software interface showcasing its versatility for design work anywhere.

AutoCAD is a cool architecture software that lots of architects, engineers, and construction workers use. The full version costs money, but there's a free web version called AutoCAD Web App. This version has all the tools you need to make awesome drafts and technical drawings. It's perfect for architects who want professional-grade drafting tools without spending a ton of money.

This free software uses special design elements like windows and doors to make 3D floor plans look realistic and cool.

Pros:

  • You can customize the browser and tool palettes.
  • You can import Revit grids.

Cons:

  • It's only free for students and teachers.

SmartDraw

A screenshot of online architecture software showcasing design tools and features for creating building plans and models.

SmartDraw is another awesome architecture design software. It's great for making diagrams, floor plans, and schematics quickly and easily. You can connect it to other tools like Trello and Visio to make your workflow smoother. Plus, you can print your drawings in different formats.

SmartDraw has lots of templates and symbols made just for architectural design. It's perfect for creating design plans, electrical layouts, and landscape designs.

Pros:

  • Has a powerful architecture design toolset.
  • Easy quick start architecture design templates.
  • Rich architectural symbol library.

Cons:

  • Only works on Windows or in a web browser.

FloorPlanner

Home design software website showcasing user-friendly tools for creating and visualizing interior and exterior designs.

FloorPlanner is a fun free architecture software that lets you make 2D and 3D floor plans. You can even share interactive versions of your plans online. There's a cool "automatic finishing" feature that helps you decorate rooms easily. Your finished floor plans will look super professional and ready to show off.

This software has lots of cool features that make designing quick and easy. The Google Chrome and iPad apps are a nice touch, and the drag-and-drop function is really helpful. You can easily switch between design elements, floors, and viewing options.

Pros:

  • 3D, 360°panorama, VR walkthroughs
  • Interactive 2D and 3D floor plan
  • Furniture image library

Cons:

  • The free version only supports one project

Conclusion

If you're into architecture design, these free software options are perfect for you. Try out different features and let your architectural ideas come to life with these cool tools. Have fun designing!

Stunning Quality

You might also be interested in

PhotoCut - A Game Changer!

Explore endless tools and templates at your fingertips to customize your new image using the PhotoCut app. They love us. You will too.

Affordable and easy to use

"Photocut has revolutionized the way I approach photo editing. It's an absolute game-changer! The results are impressive, and the ease of use is a huge plus. I can't recommend it enough."

- Sarah T.
Designer at BRIX Templates

High quality photos

"I was skeptical at first, but Photocut has exceeded my expectations. It's like having a professional photo editor at your fingertips. The quality and speed are unbeatable!"

- Mark S.
Designer at BRIX Templates

A game changer!

"Photocut is a lifesaver for my online store. I used to spend hours editing product images, but now I can do it in minutes, and the results are fantastic. A must-have tool for e-commerce."

- John Carter
Designer at BRIX Templates

Explore our free tools

Make your pictures pop with features that are completely free.
SEE ALL TOOLS

Do you want to see everything in detail? Try the Best Image Enhancer for crystal clear images

Make your pictures pop with features that are completely free.

AI Sharpness Enhancement

Enhance the sharpness and details of your blurry or out-of-focus photos with our photo quality enhancer. It can help you improve the overall quality of the images.

AI Noise Reduction

Improve the quality of your smartphone photos by removing noise and artifacts easily.

AI Portrait Enhancement

Our powerful image enhancer is capable of automatically detecting faces and applying natural, refined facial enhancements.

AI Photo Restoration

Restore old photos by repairing tears, scratches, and damage. Easily convert to HD quality.

AI Image Enlargement

Instantly enlarge and improve image resolution by 200% without losing any clarity or detail.

AI Color Correction

Improve online image quality by adjusting colors and tones for clarity and vibrance.

FAQ’s

FAQ’s

I'm looking for a comprehensive guide on how to use a free photo editor. Can you recommend any resources?

I recommend checking out our detailed step-by-step guide on How to Use a Free Photo Editor. It covers everything from downloading and installing to using the essential tools and techniques for enhancing your photos.

How can I edit the background of an image using free software?

To learn how to edit the background of an image using free software, visit this comprehensive guide: How to Use a Free Photo Editor to Edit Photo Backgrounds.

I need to remove the color from an image and make it transparent. Can I do this for free and how?

Yes, you can use several free tools to remove color and make your image transparent. One such tool is PhotoCut. It's easy to use:
Step 1: Go to Remove Color From Image With AI for Free.
Step 2: Download the app or directly upload your image.
Step 3: Select 'Remove Background' (make sure the 'Transparent' option is checked).
Step 4: Download the resulting transparent image.

How do I edit a photo professionally using a free online tool?

For detailed guidance on professional photo editing using free online tools, please refer to our comprehensive documentation at Remove any person from the photo using AI. This guide covers advanced techniques for removing unwanted elements, adjusting color balance, and enhancing image quality. By following the step-by-step instructions, you can achieve professional-level results without breaking the bank.

How can I edit my transparent images further?

You can use a free photo editor such as Transparent Background Maker using AI to further enhance your transparent images. This allows you to crop, resize, add text, adjust colors, and apply various effects to your images.

How can I remove multiple people from a photo using AI?

Most of the free AI tools only allow you to remove one person at a time. However, there are some paid tools that allow you to remove multiple people. One popular option is PhotoCut, for more information on how to use free photo editors to remove people from photos, you can refer to this comprehensive guide on Remove any person from the photo using AI for Free.

How do I use a Free Transparent Background Maker using AI?

To use a Free Transparent Background Maker using AI, follow these general steps:
Step 1: Choose a suitable tool, such as a free Transparent Background Maker using AI.
Step 2: Upload your image to the tool's website or app.
Step 3: Wait for the AI to process the image and remove the background.
Step 4: Download the processed image with a transparent background.
Step 5: If desired, you can then use the image in your projects or designs.

How can I use a Background Editor to edit the background of a photo?

To edit the background of a photo using a Background Editor, follow these general steps:
Step 1: Open the Edit Background of the Photo article to learn the step-by-step process.
Step 2: Download the app.
Step 3: Use the background removal tool to isolate the foreground subject from the background. This may involve selecting the subject manually or using an automatic detection feature.
Step 4: Once the background is isolated, you can replace it with a new image, color, or pattern, or remove it entirely.
Step 5: Adjust the settings and options provided by the software to fine-tune the appearance of the edited photo.
Step 6: Save the edited photo to your desired location.

How can I enhance the quality of my images without losing detail or resolution?

AI technology has revolutionized image enhancement, allowing you to improve clarity, remove noise, and scale images to higher resolutions without sacrificing image quality. Discover how AI can enhance your images by visiting this comprehensive guide: Enhance Image Quality with AI & Get Higher Resolution Image.

How can I remove unwanted objects or people from my photos for free?

There are several free online tools that allow you to remove unwanted objects from photos. One highly recommended tool is Remove Unwanted Objects for Free.
This tool is easy to use and provides accurate results. It allows you to manually select the unwanted objects and remove them from the photo. You can also use the automatic detection feature to identify and remove unwanted objects automatically.Here are the steps on how to use Remove Unwanted Objects for Free:
Step 1: Upload your photo to the tool.
Step 2: Use the tools to manually select and remove the unwanted objects.
Step 3: Or, use the automatic detection feature to identify and remove unwanted objects.
Step 4: Download the edited photo.The tool is completely free to use and does not require any subscription or registration.

How can I get started with the free AI Photo Editor?

To start using the free AI Photo Editor, simply click on the following link: Free AI Photo Editor
Once you have clicked on the link, you will be taken to the editor where you can upload your photo and begin editing. The editor is user-friendly and provides a wide range of AI-powered features to enhance your photos.

How can I easily erase the background of any image for free?

You can use online tools like Background Eraser to erase the background of any image for free. Click here to access Background Eraser.

How can I effectively clean up my images using AI for free?

To effortlessly cleanup your images using AI at no cost, I recommend visiting our comprehensive guide on 'Picture Cleanup with AI - Cleanup Pictures for Free'. This valuable resource provides step-by-step instructions on utilizing powerful AI tools to remove unwanted objects, enhance colors, and optimize your images for various purposes.

How can I create a rounded profile picture for free?

Visit our website Create your rounded profile picture for free - Round PFP for a simple and easy-to-use tool that allows you to create rounded profile pictures in just a few simple steps. Our user-friendly interface makes it effortless to customize your profile picture in a matter of seconds. Whether you want to crop an existing image or use our pre-designed templates, we provide you with the freedom to create the perfect rounded profile picture for any platform.

How do I instantly remove the background from an image for free using AI?

With our AI-powered instant background remover, you can remove the background from any image in just a few clicks. Simply upload your image to our website or mobile app, and our AI will automatically detect and remove the background, leaving you with a transparent background image. You can then use this image for any purpose, such as creating social media graphics, website banners, or product images. Click here to try our instant background remover for free.

How can I remove the background from an image for free?

Here's a free and easy-to-use online tool that will help you remove the background from any image instantly: Free Image Background Remover - Remove Bg for Free

How can I add a brown background to my image for free?

There are several free online tools that you can use to add a brown background to your image. One popular option is add a brown background to your image for free. This tool allows you to change the background color of your image to any color you want, including brown. Simply upload your image to the tool, select 'Change Background Color' from the left-hand menu, and then choose the desired brown shade from the color palette. You can then download the edited image with the new brown background.

How can I remove the background from an image quickly and easily?

To quickly and easily remove the background from an image, you can use an online removal tool like Remove Background. Simply upload your image to the website, and it will automatically remove the background in seconds.

How can I create a rounded profile picture for free?

You can easily create a rounded profile picture for free using our online profile picture rounding service at Create your rounded profile picture for free - Round PFP.
Follow these steps:
Step 1: Upload your desired image.
Step 2: Select the rounding shape (circle or square).
Step 3: Adjust the rounding radius to your preference.
Step 4: Preview your rounded profile picture and click 'Download.'

What is PhotoCut Pro and what are the benefits of subscribing to it?

PhotoCut Pro is a powerful image editing software that empowers you to effortlessly remove and replace backgrounds. By subscribing to PhotoCut Pro, you unlock a myriad of premium features, including:-
-Background removal with AI-powered accuracy
- Advanced cutout tools for fine-tuning your edits
- A vast library of backgrounds to enhance your compositions
- Batch processing capabilities to save time and streamline your workflow.

Discover the Transformative Power of PhotoCut Pro: A Comprehensive Guide to Background Removal

How can I quickly and easily crop my photos using a free image cropper tool?

You can use the 'Free Image Cropper: Easily Crop Photos within seconds' tool to quickly and easily crop your photos. This tool offers a user-friendly interface and a variety of cropping options, allowing you to achieve the desired result in just a few seconds. To get started, simply upload your photo, select the desired cropping area, and apply the changes. The tool supports various image formats and provides high-quality output. For more detailed information and a step-by-step guide, you can refer to our comprehensive article on the topic: Free Image Cropper: Easily Crop Photos within seconds.

How can I add a plain white background to my image for free?

You can add a plain white background to your image for free using various online tools and software. One such tool is Add Plain White Background to your image. This tool allows you to upload your image, automatically remove the existing background, and replace it with a plain white background. The process is simple and user-friendly, and the best part is that it's completely free.

How can I easily add a white background to my passport photo to meet government requirements?

To add a white background to your passport photo, follow these steps:
Step 1: Use a photo editing software such as Photoshop, Paint.NET, or Canva.
Step 2: Open your passport photo in the software.
Step 3: Create a new layer behind the photo.
Step 4: Fill the layer with white using the paint bucket tool.
Step 5: Adjust the opacity of the white layer to blend it with the photo.
Step 6: Crop the photo to the required size and save it in the appropriate file format.

For more detailed instructions and additional tips, refer to our comprehensive article:
How to Add White Background to Passport Photo

How can I add a light blue background to my image without having to pay?

There are several free online tools that allow you to easily add a light blue background to your image. One popular option is Free Online Photo Editor. This user-friendly tool offers a wide range of editing options, including the ability to change the background color of your image. By following the step-by-step instructions provided in our comprehensive article, you will be able to add a light blue background to your image with professional-looking results in just minutes.

What are the most important trends to keep in mind for clothing flat lay photography in 2024?

To stay ahead of the curve in 2024, consider these key trends:
Use of natural light: Natural light enhances realism and creates a soft, inviting atmosphere.
Minimalist backgrounds: Clear and uncluttered backgrounds draw attention to the clothing and reduce distractions.
Interesting textures and patterns: Incorporating fabrics with different textures and patterns adds visual interest and depth.
Attention to detail: Pay meticulous attention to elements such as wrinkles, folds, and accessories to showcase the craftsmanship and allure of the garments.
Use of props: Props like flowers, jewelry, or books can enhance storytelling and create a personalized touch.

For more in-depth insights and inspiration, be sure to explore our comprehensive article on
Clothing Flat Lay Photography Ideas You Need to Know for 2024 (Updated)