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Better Homes and Gardens Home Designer Suite 8.0 Review (continued)
More User Submitted Better Homes and Gardens Home Designer Suite 8.0 Reviews
Date: 2008-06-05
Pretty sweet package for the money
I have not actually done a final design with this product yet, but have done some preliminary layouts. For the money I doubt that you will find a product that has close the usability and functionality. Like most design programs, it takes a bit of getting used to, I spent a couple of hours trying to get the grade for a driveway and surrounding ground correct. However I'm sure with more familiarity it would have taken no more than a few minutes.
The program does have some CAD capabilities, but that is certainly not its strength, I have used freeware more powerful for CAD work. But for interior and exterior architecting, being able to see what the finished design will look like (or at least some approximation) is invaluable.
This package is worth buying even if you are not sure if it is exactly what you want. You can always just use it for landscaping layouts (does a pretty good job at that).
Date: 2008-05-16
Limited Functionality
A little backgound info about me.
I have used 3d products in the past, including AutoCAD, 3DS Max, Lightwave, and others. I also have worked in construction and have certifications in several areas of construction and cabinet making.
I bought this program with the goal of creating a materials list for a shop I want to build.
Now for the review.
I found the video trainings helpful. The program is simple in design and easy to use. Some functionality is limited. Direct input of distance is a function that requires the next level up in the program which is double the price. I did make several designs of the shop for experimenting with the materials list. I found some items not as I expected. I will have to try some more experiments to see if I can get a work around. When creating a foundation under the shop, if the dimensions are longer than typically available dimensional lumber, it appears the program doesn't care. It will print that you need a 34 foot piece of lumber.
Overall, I don't think this program has lived up to my expectations, but I believe it has value in getting an idea of how a project will look. I am more interested in the details which is why I have given it only 2 stars.
Date: 2008-05-14
Awesome!
I looked at several software programs and downloaded many free trials and none came close to the power and ease of use of the Home Designer Suite 8.0. A few of the products I tried before HDS were more expensive and they just didn't match up. After using the program for 30 days, I think it would be a bargain at twice the price!
Date: 2008-05-11
Review
Great features once you learn how to use the program. Very helpful with the remodeling of my house and backyard.
Date: 2008-04-07
outstanding
i've owned this program for one week. i was initially concerned, as it did not come with a manual. well, after a week, i've found that a paper manual is not necessary to fully operate this program. i can not claim that i'm an expert after one week, but, i do re-assure you that this program is quite simple to operate, it offers possibilities that i never before imagined in my previous architecture program. this program is challenging, in that it offers so many options that i can spend hours looking through all of them. while $99 isn't cheap, especially compared to some of the other programs, i assure you that it is leaps ahead of my 3 year old 3D program. i haven't purchased other programs to know how it compares to other more recent products. i can say that it is phenomenal in comparison to three year old programs. i am very glad that i made this purchase and i would do it again, knowing what i know now, i might even pay more for it. it is likely to become one of my favorite toys. [after i've owned this program for a month or two, i'll submit an addendum so that you can read more of my findings.]
Better Homes and Gardens Home Designer Suite 8.0 Reviews Page: 3 of 3 Prev<< 1 2 3
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