Things You'll Need:
- Computer with Internet access
-
Step 1
Go to Google and download the freeware version of SketchUp to your computer. Install it onto your system.
-
Step 2
Learn the building codes and zoning requirements for the area where you are planning to build your house. You will also want to know if the are any covenants or other community restrictions on how you design your house. For example, in some historic districts will only let you paint your house white. If you design does not conform to local requirements and restrictions, you may have to make major changes well into the project, which can be expensive.
-
Step 3
Draw out your ideas on paper before you start working in SketchUp. While these drawings will not be what you want to show to the professional you hire, they will help to guide you as you work. Draw each floor on a separate sheet. Scan your sheets into the computer.
-
Step 4
Open Google SketchUp. In the view you will see a 2D figure that you can delete if you wish. Now select "Camera" in the menu. From the dropdown options select "Standard Views" and click "Top." Now select "File" from the menu and click "Import." Place the image you imported onto the ground surface.
-
Step 5
Select the "Line" tool from the toolbar on the left. Use it to trace the outer shape of the first floor design into the view. Then draw in the inner lines as well. Now select the "Push/Pull" tool and use it to raise the walls of your design to the correct height.
-
Step 6
Select the "Paintbucket" tool and use it to add textures and colors to the walls and floors of you design by clicking in the surfaces. Now click on the "Add Models" icon and in the dialog that opens select furnishings and add other items that with which you would like to decorate your. Repeat this process for each of your floors. You now have a 3D version of your house you can show to your professional.
