It is the dream of many people to design and build their own homes. Unfortunately for many, the dream has remained beyond their reach. It can be a daunting task, but with the help of online tools, it is becoming far easier for those that never thought it possible to realize their dream and design and build their dream home!
Here are a few ways that technology can be used to help you design and build your dream home.
Buying land for your self-build
Finding a suitable plot used to involve speaking with various realtors, but now there are numerous sites dedicated to finding you the ideal plot for your new build. Simply select the area and characteristics of the plot you are looking for, and you will be presented with a range of potential plots for your project.
Finding the right builder for your dream home
There are so many sites devoted to finding you a suitable plot, and by using similar sites, finding the right builder is easier than ever. The sites allow users to search listings based on the trades needed, and it is also possible to read genuine reviews written by confirmed customers. If they have built plenty of projects, that can prove that they are trustworthy, but also their track records will show whether the builder has delivered on all their promises. You should also have a look at their references and ask them any questions that are worrying you at all!
Floorplan creation software
Although printing blueprints are still important, you can save a lot of time with online drafting tools. Drafting is also an essential part of building a house. These days there are many different programs available that can help you create professional-looking plans with speed and accuracy. Some drafting software programs allow you to export the plan directly into CAD (computer-aided design) and then 3D modeling software, which can greatly simplify the process of creating detailed drawings of the house.
Not all software is created equal – what should you look for in a design tool? If we remove the cost of the software from the equation, what do you need from a good design tool?
Access
These days if it’s not in the cloud, then the data is pretty much inaccessible. As part of your project, you will be liaising with many professionals. Make sure you can access your design from anywhere.
Support
We may like to think we can solve any problems on our own. Unfortunately, we all run into problems and need software support. It’s worth looking at how your chosen company offers support.
Training
Any software package comes with a learning curve, with the right training options, the time it takes to learn new skills can be reduced.
Online color scheme generators
There are literally thousands of interior design styles available, and it is easy to become confused about what direction to go. Again technology can help streamline the process, and there are many free and paid-for color scheme generator services available.
Color Generators
A color generator will help you identify a color or color palette. For example, you can upload an image, and the tool will identify all of the colors. Or you can select a color and get the tool to create a palette of complementary hues.
Color Visualizer
A color visualizer allows you to create a virtual room that you can color in with your chosen color scheme so you can compare different decoration ideas. For example, you can upload photographs of your property interiors, and the tool will provide you with a 3D model you can move around and color in. Or you can select different room layouts, and the tool will show you what the rest of the room looks like.
Land Information Systems
In addition to designing the build and decoration of your home, you will need to consider the build’s location and the soil’s composition so that any challenges are understood at the design stage. This technology is very helpful if your dream home is located in an area where it isn’t easy to access information on the property.
Self-build Home Building Kits
Many companies now sell self-build house kits, also known as prefabricated house. The kits come with all the materials and instructions for building a home. Self-build kits range from simple garden sheds to complete homes.
Benefits of a self-build kit home include:
- Shorter construction time
- Up-to-date standards
- Made to fit your budget
- Reduced construction waste
- Potentially a reduced environmental impact
This is an excellent way for those who would like to learn how to build a home without starting from scratch.
Online construction material calculator
Online calculation tools can help you quantify the building materials needed for your project as well as do cost comparisons can be extremely helpful. The more you know about different products, the easier it will be to make a decision on which material to use for your project. A good tool will also allow you to search for local suppliers.
Project management software
A good project management tool will help you and your team stay on track and ensure that nothing will be lost under the tonnes of paper. It will also help you identify the order in that jobs need to be completed. Knowing how long an electrician will need to complete electrical works will help avoid booking the services of the decorators too early. This will help reduce rework and avoid delays.
Managing a building project requires a lot of organization, and most people lack this skill. A good project management tool will help with the organization. No matter whether you use your cell phone, tablet, or laptop to plan and manage your project – a good project management tool is a great help.
Conclusion
It is getting easier and easier to plan, source, and complete designs for your self-build project online. These tools and technology are making the whole process easier and cheaper, making the dream of building your own home a reality for far more people than ever before. So why not let your imagination free and start on that dream project you have always wanted?
