The recently released version 8.0 of Chief Architect offers users a number of new features. One aimed specifically at remodelers lets users create custom materials lists for entire plans or subsets of plans. The user defines any area on the plan, and the software generates a materials list specific to that area.
Users also can import existing plans as well as create new ones. The CAD-to-Walls feature automatically converts 2-D computer-aided design lines from other drawing programs into 3-D walls, doors, windows and railings. Automatic Framing and Automatic Roof Generation permit great flexibility in designing and displaying almost any style of roof. The program contains more than 7,000 symbols, textures and images (doors, windows, cabinets, plumbing, furniture, etc.) and includes manufacturer-specific symbol libraries. If users need even more symbols, a custom symbol wizard uses imported 3-D DWG and DXF files to create them.
This newest version of Chief Architect also offers customizable default and preference settings for nearly every tool, and can accurately lay out and display a building site with a 2-D contour map or a 3-D surface representation. It permits setting different casing sizes for interiors and exteriors of doors and windows. And it includes the ICBO IRC Checklist, which provides a comprehensive list of standard building codes.
Plans can be displayed and printed in three dimensions, complete with dramatic “lighting” effects and exterior features such as fences, sidewalks and landscaping, to provide clients with a realistic view of the completed project. Visit www.chiefarchitect.com for more information.