6 answers
Jadyn
Student
Hueytown, Alabama
2
Questions
Asked
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What devices and types of programs should I learn to start using for interior design?
I wanted to save up for a computer that I can specifically use for Interior designing, so I wanted to know the best types of computers to get and where I might find them. I also wanted to to know what types of programs I need or should learn to use that will help me for college and actual career. Especially since I have a harder time understanding technological programs and I am unable to take a computer science course this year and my senior year.
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6 answers
Dr H
Dr. H's Research
1334
Answers
Australia
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey Jadyn, great question! Investing in the right tools early on will definitely set you up for success in college and your career. Since you mentioned struggling with tech programs, I'll break it down in a way that’s beginner-friendly.
But, Offf man I remember when I sat around with my brother to find a strong processing graphic laptop for him back in the days.... Now so far ago! 😏
So.... Interior design software requires strong processing power and graphics capabilities, so your computer should have:
Processor (CPU): At least Intel i7 / AMD Ryzen 7 (i9/Ryzen 9 is even better)
RAM: Minimum 16GB (but 32GB+ is ideal)
Graphics Card (GPU): A dedicated GPU (like NVIDIA RTX 3060/4060 or AMD Radeon 6700 XT)
Storage: 512GB SSD or more (1TB+ recommended if working with large files)
Screen: High-resolution IPS display (1920x1080 or higher) for color accuracy
Best Laptops I have been told lately 🤔
Windows: Dell XPS 15, ASUS ProArt Studiobook, MSI Creator Z16, Razer Blade 15
Mac: MacBook Pro (M2/M3 chip) – Great for some software, but some programs are Windows-only
Best Desktops:
Windows: Custom-built PC, Dell XPS Desktop, HP Z-Series
Mac: iMac 24” (M3) – If you prefer macOS
Best Interior Design Software (Beginner-Friendly)
Since you’re new to tech programs, I recommend starting with easier ones and gradually working your way up:
Easy to Learn (Great for Beginners)
SketchUp – Simple, user-friendly 3D modeling software
AutoCAD – Industry standard for floor plans, but has a learning curve
Canva / Adobe Illustrator – Great for mood boards & visual presentations
Intermediate Level
Revit – Useful for architectural designs (heavier software but important)
Blender – Free 3D modeling tool (good alternative to expensive programs)
Advanced Rendering Software (For Realistic Visuals)
V-Ray / Lumion / Enscape – High-quality rendering tools (for realistic images of designs)
Tip: Start with SketchUp & AutoCAD, then move to Revit & rendering tools once you’re comfortable.
Other Important Skills for Interior Design
Hand Sketching: Even with great software, quick sketches help communicate ideas fast.
Color & Material Theory: Learn about textures, lighting, and how colors interact.
Space Planning: Understanding layout and functionality is key.
Since you won’t take a computer science course, try YouTube tutorials, Coursera, or Udemy for beginner-friendly lessons.
Let me know if you need more advice—happy to help! Good luck we are here for you buddy! 🤗
Start with SketchUp & AutoCAD (they’re the most used & easiest to learn).
Save for a laptop/desktop with at least an i7/Ryzen 7, 16GB RAM, and a dedicated GPU.
Watch free online tutorials & practice sketching to improve design thinking.
Consider a used/refurbished high-performance laptop if budget is tight.
But, Offf man I remember when I sat around with my brother to find a strong processing graphic laptop for him back in the days.... Now so far ago! 😏
So.... Interior design software requires strong processing power and graphics capabilities, so your computer should have:
Processor (CPU): At least Intel i7 / AMD Ryzen 7 (i9/Ryzen 9 is even better)
RAM: Minimum 16GB (but 32GB+ is ideal)
Graphics Card (GPU): A dedicated GPU (like NVIDIA RTX 3060/4060 or AMD Radeon 6700 XT)
Storage: 512GB SSD or more (1TB+ recommended if working with large files)
Screen: High-resolution IPS display (1920x1080 or higher) for color accuracy
Best Laptops I have been told lately 🤔
Windows: Dell XPS 15, ASUS ProArt Studiobook, MSI Creator Z16, Razer Blade 15
Mac: MacBook Pro (M2/M3 chip) – Great for some software, but some programs are Windows-only
Best Desktops:
Windows: Custom-built PC, Dell XPS Desktop, HP Z-Series
Mac: iMac 24” (M3) – If you prefer macOS
Best Interior Design Software (Beginner-Friendly)
Since you’re new to tech programs, I recommend starting with easier ones and gradually working your way up:
Easy to Learn (Great for Beginners)
SketchUp – Simple, user-friendly 3D modeling software
AutoCAD – Industry standard for floor plans, but has a learning curve
Canva / Adobe Illustrator – Great for mood boards & visual presentations
Intermediate Level
Revit – Useful for architectural designs (heavier software but important)
Blender – Free 3D modeling tool (good alternative to expensive programs)
Advanced Rendering Software (For Realistic Visuals)
V-Ray / Lumion / Enscape – High-quality rendering tools (for realistic images of designs)
Tip: Start with SketchUp & AutoCAD, then move to Revit & rendering tools once you’re comfortable.
Other Important Skills for Interior Design
Hand Sketching: Even with great software, quick sketches help communicate ideas fast.
Color & Material Theory: Learn about textures, lighting, and how colors interact.
Space Planning: Understanding layout and functionality is key.
Since you won’t take a computer science course, try YouTube tutorials, Coursera, or Udemy for beginner-friendly lessons.
Let me know if you need more advice—happy to help! Good luck we are here for you buddy! 🤗
Dr recommends the following next steps:
William Vvuko
Retired engineer salary in
27
Answers
Moyo, Northern Region
Updated
William’s Answer
Dear Jadyn,
Thanks for your question. As you may be aware, interior designing is an essential part of our lives as it affects how we live, work, play & heal. Creating comfortable homes, functional work places & beautiful public places is not only an art, but it's also a science.
Knowledge of textiles, materials, color, modeling techniques, graphic design, architecture, decorative arts, ergonomics, lighting designs & furniture forms the bedrock for the trade. Space planning skills are equally important. It's imperative that the interior designer has this knowledge & skills set before considering computer applications. This way, one is able to meet specific customer needs using the essential basic principles.
To improve productivity & efficiency, software applications are essential. 3-D models, especially, are essential for visualizing & communicating ideas effectively.
Yoga has ably elaborated the specifics of what you require to be able to do computer aided designs.
Thanks for your question. As you may be aware, interior designing is an essential part of our lives as it affects how we live, work, play & heal. Creating comfortable homes, functional work places & beautiful public places is not only an art, but it's also a science.
Knowledge of textiles, materials, color, modeling techniques, graphic design, architecture, decorative arts, ergonomics, lighting designs & furniture forms the bedrock for the trade. Space planning skills are equally important. It's imperative that the interior designer has this knowledge & skills set before considering computer applications. This way, one is able to meet specific customer needs using the essential basic principles.
To improve productivity & efficiency, software applications are essential. 3-D models, especially, are essential for visualizing & communicating ideas effectively.
Yoga has ably elaborated the specifics of what you require to be able to do computer aided designs.
Vasudha Thakur
Quality assurance
1
Answer
Ludhiana, Punjab, India
Updated
Vasudha’s Answer
Software & Programs
3D Modeling & Rendering
SketchUp – Easy to learn for 3D modeling.
AutoCAD – Industry standard for drafting and floor plans.
Revit – Useful for BIM (Building Information Modeling).
3ds Max + V-Ray – For advanced rendering and photorealistic designs.
Blender – Free alternative for modeling and rendering.
Floor Plan & Layout Design
Floorplanner – Beginner-friendly for creating room layouts.
SmartDraw – Good for detailed floor planning.
Interior Visualization
Lumion – Real-time 3D rendering for interior and landscape design.
Enscape – Plugin for SketchUp/Revit for real-time rendering.
Twinmotion – Good for interactive walkthroughs.
Color & Material Selection
Adobe Photoshop & Illustrator – Useful for creating mood boards.
Canva – Quick and easy mood board creation.
Palette Generator (Coolors, Pantone Studio) – Helps in choosing color schemes.
Devices
Laptop or Desktop – A powerful computer with a good GPU (graphics card) is essential for rendering 3D models.
Tablet with Stylus – An iPad with Apple Pencil or a Wacom tablet can be useful for sketching ideas.
Laser Distance Measurer – Helps in measuring room dimensions accurately.
VR Headset – Optional but useful for immersive 3D walkthroughs.
3D Modeling & Rendering
SketchUp – Easy to learn for 3D modeling.
AutoCAD – Industry standard for drafting and floor plans.
Revit – Useful for BIM (Building Information Modeling).
3ds Max + V-Ray – For advanced rendering and photorealistic designs.
Blender – Free alternative for modeling and rendering.
Floor Plan & Layout Design
Floorplanner – Beginner-friendly for creating room layouts.
SmartDraw – Good for detailed floor planning.
Interior Visualization
Lumion – Real-time 3D rendering for interior and landscape design.
Enscape – Plugin for SketchUp/Revit for real-time rendering.
Twinmotion – Good for interactive walkthroughs.
Color & Material Selection
Adobe Photoshop & Illustrator – Useful for creating mood boards.
Canva – Quick and easy mood board creation.
Palette Generator (Coolors, Pantone Studio) – Helps in choosing color schemes.
Devices
Laptop or Desktop – A powerful computer with a good GPU (graphics card) is essential for rendering 3D models.
Tablet with Stylus – An iPad with Apple Pencil or a Wacom tablet can be useful for sketching ideas.
Laser Distance Measurer – Helps in measuring room dimensions accurately.
VR Headset – Optional but useful for immersive 3D walkthroughs.
Yoga Dwi Pradana
I don't have a job
10
Answers
Batu, East Java, Indonesia
Updated
Yoga Dwi’s Answer
That’s great that you’re planning ahead! Since interior design relies heavily on 3D modeling, rendering, and drafting, you’ll want a computer that can handle demanding software. Here’s a breakdown of what you need:
Best Computer Specs for Interior Design
Processor (CPU) – At least an Intel Core i7 or AMD Ryzen 7 (i9/Ryzen 9 if budget allows).
RAM – Minimum 16GB, but 32GB+ is ideal for smooth multitasking.
Graphics Card (GPU) – A dedicated GPU, like NVIDIA RTX 3060/4060 or AMD Radeon RX 6700 XT, is important for rendering.
Storage – SSD (512GB or more) for fast performance (consider 1TB if working with large files).
Display – A high-resolution (1920x1080 or higher) IPS monitor for color accuracy.
For a laptop, consider models like:
MacBook Pro (M2/M3 Chip) – Good for design work, though some programs are Windows-only.
Dell XPS 15/17 – Powerful Windows option.
Asus ProArt Studiobook – Made for creatives.
MSI Creator Z16 – High performance for 3D modeling.
For a desktop:
Custom-built PC (if comfortable building one).
Dell XPS Desktop or HP Z Series (pre-built options).
Apple iMac 24” (M3) – If sticking with macOS.
Best Programs for Interior Design
AutoCAD – Industry standard for drafting floor plans.
SketchUp – Beginner-friendly 3D modeling software.
Revit – Useful for architectural and structural design.
3ds Max – Great for rendering and detailed modeling.
Adobe Photoshop & Illustrator – Useful for presentations and mood boards.
Blender – Free alternative for 3D modeling and rendering.
Enscape / V-Ray / Lumion – High-quality rendering tools for realistic visuals.
Since you find tech programs challenging, start with SketchUp and AutoCAD, as they have a gentler learning curve. YouTube tutorials, free online courses (like Coursera or Udemy), and beginner-friendly guides can help.
Best Computer Specs for Interior Design
Processor (CPU) – At least an Intel Core i7 or AMD Ryzen 7 (i9/Ryzen 9 if budget allows).
RAM – Minimum 16GB, but 32GB+ is ideal for smooth multitasking.
Graphics Card (GPU) – A dedicated GPU, like NVIDIA RTX 3060/4060 or AMD Radeon RX 6700 XT, is important for rendering.
Storage – SSD (512GB or more) for fast performance (consider 1TB if working with large files).
Display – A high-resolution (1920x1080 or higher) IPS monitor for color accuracy.
For a laptop, consider models like:
MacBook Pro (M2/M3 Chip) – Good for design work, though some programs are Windows-only.
Dell XPS 15/17 – Powerful Windows option.
Asus ProArt Studiobook – Made for creatives.
MSI Creator Z16 – High performance for 3D modeling.
For a desktop:
Custom-built PC (if comfortable building one).
Dell XPS Desktop or HP Z Series (pre-built options).
Apple iMac 24” (M3) – If sticking with macOS.
Best Programs for Interior Design
AutoCAD – Industry standard for drafting floor plans.
SketchUp – Beginner-friendly 3D modeling software.
Revit – Useful for architectural and structural design.
3ds Max – Great for rendering and detailed modeling.
Adobe Photoshop & Illustrator – Useful for presentations and mood boards.
Blender – Free alternative for 3D modeling and rendering.
Enscape / V-Ray / Lumion – High-quality rendering tools for realistic visuals.
Since you find tech programs challenging, start with SketchUp and AutoCAD, as they have a gentler learning curve. YouTube tutorials, free online courses (like Coursera or Udemy), and beginner-friendly guides can help.
Natalie Goodman, NCIDQ NEWH
Commercial and Hospitality Interior Design
7
Answers
Boulder, Colorado
Updated
Natalie’s Answer
Hi Jadyn,
Good question. I am a professional interior designer and would suggest that it would be better to work on drawing skills. I find that most interior designers graduating these days do not know how to communicate thought through drawing.
Interior design is about problem solving. Being able to quickly communicate ideas in sketches is something that is becoming a lost art. Today, we rely a little too much on computers to visualize, but the human hand shows creativity and thoughtfulness.
Learning SketchUp is a good start. You will need a computer that can handle 3d graphics, like a gaming computer. They are a bit more expensive than a standard computer. I built my computer, which is the best route. There are websites that specialize in custom computers. Going this route ensures that you are getting the best option for your application.
Hope this helps. I would encourage sketching over software to start your journey.
Best of luck,
Natalie
Good question. I am a professional interior designer and would suggest that it would be better to work on drawing skills. I find that most interior designers graduating these days do not know how to communicate thought through drawing.
Interior design is about problem solving. Being able to quickly communicate ideas in sketches is something that is becoming a lost art. Today, we rely a little too much on computers to visualize, but the human hand shows creativity and thoughtfulness.
Learning SketchUp is a good start. You will need a computer that can handle 3d graphics, like a gaming computer. They are a bit more expensive than a standard computer. I built my computer, which is the best route. There are websites that specialize in custom computers. Going this route ensures that you are getting the best option for your application.
Hope this helps. I would encourage sketching over software to start your journey.
Best of luck,
Natalie
Julie Ann Shahin
Interior Designer/Business Owner
8
Answers
Irondequoit, NY
Updated
Julie Ann’s Answer
Hi Jadyn,
You're asking a fantastic question! I took every art class I could in high school, but looking back, I wish I had taken drafting too. When I found myself in a drafting class, I had to rely on a fellow student to teach me the basics. Remember, it's never too late to learn something new, and you're already on the right path by asking questions!
I recently got a new laptop, and it's a gaming laptop that I absolutely love—my HP Omen is amazing. It's got everything I need and more. Here’s what it includes:
- **Operating System:** Windows 11 Home
- **Processor and Graphics:** Intel® Core™ i7 with NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 4050
- **Memory:** 16 GB DDR5 RAM
- **Storage:** 512 GB SSD
- **Display:** 16.1" FHD, perfect for gaming and design
- **Webcam and Audio:** HP True Vision camera and DTS:X® Ultra sound
- **Keyboard:** Full-size with backlighting
There are also some cool upgrade options if you want even more power. Plus, it charges super fast (the one con is that as a gaming laptop, the battery lasts about 4 hours) which is perfect for staying productive or gaming on the go.
The laptop even has eco-friendly features, like recycled materials in the keyboard and speaker. It's a win for both tech lovers and the planet!
Keep pursuing your interests, and don't hesitate to explore new skills. You've got this!
Take art classes and learn to draw
Take drafting classes
Look at the HP Omen
You're asking a fantastic question! I took every art class I could in high school, but looking back, I wish I had taken drafting too. When I found myself in a drafting class, I had to rely on a fellow student to teach me the basics. Remember, it's never too late to learn something new, and you're already on the right path by asking questions!
I recently got a new laptop, and it's a gaming laptop that I absolutely love—my HP Omen is amazing. It's got everything I need and more. Here’s what it includes:
- **Operating System:** Windows 11 Home
- **Processor and Graphics:** Intel® Core™ i7 with NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 4050
- **Memory:** 16 GB DDR5 RAM
- **Storage:** 512 GB SSD
- **Display:** 16.1" FHD, perfect for gaming and design
- **Webcam and Audio:** HP True Vision camera and DTS:X® Ultra sound
- **Keyboard:** Full-size with backlighting
There are also some cool upgrade options if you want even more power. Plus, it charges super fast (the one con is that as a gaming laptop, the battery lasts about 4 hours) which is perfect for staying productive or gaming on the go.
The laptop even has eco-friendly features, like recycled materials in the keyboard and speaker. It's a win for both tech lovers and the planet!
Keep pursuing your interests, and don't hesitate to explore new skills. You've got this!
Julie Ann recommends the following next steps:
I meant to say that when I was thrown into a drafting class in COLLEGE, I had to find someone to teach me the basics.
Julie Ann Shahin