Top 9 SketchUp Alternatives Every Interior Designer Should Know

Are you tired of the limitations of SketchUp and ready to discover tools that can take your designs to the next level? As an interior designer, you’ve likely used, or at least heard of, SketchUp for 3D modeling. While SketchUp is a well-known choice among interior designers for 3D modeling software, there are many reasons why you might seek an alternative. In today’s blog post, we’ll explore the reasons why you should consider other programs similar to SketchUp and break down 9 of the most popular apps and programs like Sketchup to choose from instead.

Why seek an alternative to SketchUp?

While SketchUp has its strengths, exploring other tools can offer you many advantages, including additional features, a more intuitive interface, greater flexibility, and potentially more cost-effective solutions. 

While SketchUp is a solid choice for 3D modeling, certain software alternatives offer increased functionality, which can help you streamline your business operations, increasing efficiency, productivity, and output. For example, in addition to creating renderings for your designs, some programs also enable you to manage other aspects of your projects, including billing and sourcing. All-in-one software saves you the hassle of toggling back and forth between different platforms, as well as the expense of investing in multiple programs.

9 SketchUp alternatives to try

Check out these great alternatives to SketchUp.

1. DesignFiles

DesignFiles is an all-in-one platform for interior designers, offering a range of tools to manage everything from moodboards and renderings to billing and sourcing. This platform enhances workflow efficiency by consolidating multiple functions into a single, cloud-based solution.

Features:

• Comprehensive project management tools
• Moodboard creation and rendering capabilities
• Integrated billing and invoicing system
• Centralized sourcing and procurement
• Client collaboration and communication portal
• Cloud-based for access from anywhere

Pricing:

DesignFiles offers 2 plans, including the eDesign Plan, which is $49 per month, the Full Service Plan, which is $69 per month.

Reviews:

DesignFiles has received 4.6 stars and 535 reviews on Capterra.

2. AutoCAD

AutoCAD is a leading CAD software known for its precise 2D and 3D drafting tools, widely used in architecture and interior design. It offers a comprehensive set of features for detailed design and documentation, but does not include any project management functionality.

Features:

• Advanced 2D and 3D drafting and design tools
• Precise and detailed architectural drawings
• Extensive library of materials and textures
• Collaboration tools for team projects
• Integration with other Autodesk products

Pricing:

A monthly AutoCAD subscription costs $250, while an annual subscription costs $2,030.

Reviews:

AutoCad has received 4.6 stars and 3,029 reviews on Capterra.

3. Foyr

Foyr allows interior designers to create 3D models and renderings. It includes 50,000 models and doesn’t require any previous CAD or modeling training, however, it doesn’t include any project management tools.

Features:

• 3D modeling and rendering
• Extensive library of furniture and decor items
• Easy drag-and-drop interface
• Real-time collaboration and sharing
• Cloud-based access

Pricing:

The Basic Plan is priced at $59 per month and includes 30 renders per month. With the Standard plan, you’ll receive 1,620 renders per year for $89/month. Yearly discounts are also available. 

Reviews:

Foyr has received 3.9 stars and 19 reviews on Capterra.

4. Onshape

Onshape is a cloud-based CAD platform that supports real-time collaboration and comprehensive data management. It works well for designers who need advanced modeling tools and seamless team collaboration, but it has a steep learning curve.

Features:

• Cloud-based CAD platform
• Real-time collaboration and version control
• Advanced 3D modeling tools
• Integrated data management
• Access from any device with an internet connection

Pricing:

Onshape offers a free plan with limited features and a standard plan for $1,500 per year, which includes all the features of the free plan, plus unlimited private storage and direct, in-product support. The Professional plan includes even more features and costs $2,500 per year.

Reviews:

Onshape has received 4.5 stars and 313 reviews on Capterra.

5. MyDoma Studio

MyDoma is a software platform that interior designers can use to both manage design projects and create designs via 3D rendering capabilities.  

Features:

• Product clipper
• 3D Rendering
• Embeddable design packages
• Purchase orders and invoices
• Client communication portal
• Contractor management
• Mood board tool
• Time tracker for projects

Pricing:

MyDoma’s starter package costs $39 per month, while the professional package for solo designers is $69/month. Teams of up to 3 people will pay $99 per month, while larger teams must contact MyDoma for custom pricing. Annual subscribers get 15% off.

Reviews:

MyDoma has received 4.2 stars and 79 reviews on Capterra.

6. HomeByMe

HomeByMe is an online 3D home design tool that allows users to create detailed interior designs easily. It offers realistic renderings and a large catalog of furnishings, making it ideal for visualizing home projects. HomeByMe does not offer any project management features.

Features:

• User-friendly 3D modeling and rendering
• Extensive catalog of furniture and home decor items
• Realistic rendering and virtual tour capabilities
• Easy drag-and-drop interface
• Cloud-based for easy access

Pricing:

The Free Plan includes basic features, while a more comprehensive plan costs $29 per month

HomeByMe has received 3.9 stars and 12 reviews on Capterra.

7. Blender

Blender is a free open-source software program offering 3D modeling, rendering, and animation capabilities. It offers a versatile toolset and a large and active community. While Blender is a powerful tool for 3D modeling and animation, its steep learning curve and complexity may be overwhelming for interior designers focused primarily on practical design tasks.

Features:

• Open-source 3D modeling, rendering, and animation 
• Toolset for modeling, sculpting, and texturing
• Advanced rendering engine with real-time preview
• Animation and rigging capabilities
• Wide range of add-ons and plugins

Pricing

Blender is a free software platform.

Reviews

Blender has received 4.7 stars and 927 reviews on Capterra.

8. Coohom

With Coohoom, interior designers can create floor plans and 3D renderings software, as well as access a model library with hundreds of items in unique categories, including styles like Neoclassic, Asian, Art Deco, and more. It doesn’t include any project management features.

Features:

• Custom modeling
• Construction drawings
• 3D floor planner
• 3D modeling
• AI home design software

Pricing:

Pay $25 per month for the Pro plan, which includes access to the entire model library for up to 200 projects. The Premium plan is priced at $83 per month, and encompasses unlimited projects. 

Reviews

Coohom has received 5 stars and 1 review on Capterra.

9. Homestyler

Homestyler is an app that mostly caters toward the homeowner audience, though interior designers can also use it. It lets you create 3D floor plans and visualize different design options, offering a realistic visualization of how furniture and other objects will ultimately appear in a given space. 

Features:

• Cloud based 3D floor planner
• 3D rendering
• 100,000+ 3D models and materials

Pricing:

Homestyler offers a free plan through which you can access their 3D models and materials. The Pro plan (starting at $4.90 per month), lets you remove the Homestyler watermark from your designs.

Reviews

Homestyler has received 4.5 stars and 2 reviews on Capterra.

Why interior designers choose DesignFiles

DesignFiles is an all-in-one software platform specifically crafted for interior designers, offering a comprehensive suite of tools that cater to every aspect of the design process. Its appeal lies in the ability to manage everything seamlessly in one place, from moodboards and renderings to billing and sourcing. Here’s why many interior designers are choosing DesignFiles:

Comprehensive project management

DesignFiles allows you to organize and track every phase of your design projects, from initial concept to final execution. With features like client collaboration tools, task management, and project timelines, you can ensure that all aspects of your projects are meticulously planned and executed. This level of organization not only enhances efficiency but also improves client communication and satisfaction.

Efficient moodboard and rendering tools

DesignFiles offers intuitive tools for crafting moodboards, enabling you to easily drag and drop images, fabrics, and materials to create cohesive visual presentations. Additionally, its rendering capabilities enable you to produce high-quality visualizations that bring your design ideas to life. You can use these renderings to give clients a realistic preview of the final outcome of their project, which facilitates better decision-making and approvals.

Streamlined billing and invoicing

DesignFiles’ integrated billing and invoicing system simplifies the financial aspects of your projects by allowing you to create and send invoices directly from the platform. You can track payments, manage your budget, and generate financial reports with ease. By consolidating financial management within the same platform you use for design, you reduce the risk of errors and save valuable time that would otherwise be spent on administrative tasks.

Centralized sourcing and procurement

Sourcing and procurement are critical components of any interior design project. DesignFiles provides tools for managing product catalogs, creating shopping lists, and tracking orders. You can maintain a centralized repository of product information, including images, specifications, and pricing, making it easier to compare options and make informed decisions. This centralization not only streamlines the procurement process but also ensures that all team members have access to up-to-date information.

Client collaboration and communication

Effective communication with clients is essential for the success of any design project. DesignFiles offers a client portal where clients can view project updates, provide feedback, and approve designs. This collaborative environment fosters transparency and ensures that clients are kept in the loop throughout the project. The ability to gather client feedback directly within the platform helps prevent misunderstandings and allows for quicker revisions and approvals.

Time and cost savings

An all-in-one platform like DesignFiles not only reduces your software expenses but also saves you the hassle of managing and integrating various tools. With everything you need housed in a single platform, you can streamline your workflow, reduce duplication of effort, and enhance overall productivity. You can redirect the time saved toward more creative and strategic aspects of your projects, ultimately leading to better outcomes for your clients.

Enhanced mobility and flexibility

DesignFiles is cloud-based, meaning you can access your projects and data from anywhere, at any time. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for designers who need to work on-site, meet with clients at various locations, or collaborate with remote team members. The ability to work seamlessly across different devices ensures that you remain productive, regardless of your location.

Community and support

In addition to its extensive features, DesignFiles boasts a supportive community of users and a dedicated customer support team. The platform offers a number of resources, including tutorials, webinars, and a knowledge base, to help you get the most out of its tools. This support network ensures that you can quickly resolve any issues and continue to work efficiently.

Frequently asked questions

Each of these alternatives offers unique features that can enhance your interior design projects, so the best choice will depend on your specific requirements and design style.

Want a SketchUp alternative that is easy to use and helps streamline interior design projects? Check out DesignFiles.