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Chief ArchitectLive Home 3D

Best for: Builders, remodelers and designers producing residential home plans

Best for: Homeowners and designers planning floor plans and interiors on a Mac

Paid

Subscription at $1,995 per year or $229 per month, with a downloadable trial.

 Free + paid options

A free version is available, with paid upgrades sold on the website.

Windows, macOS macOS
  • Automatic generation of roofs, foundations and framing
  • Produces dimensions, schedules and materials lists from the model
All 4 strengths
  • Automatic generation of roofs, foundations and framing
  • Produces dimensions, schedules and materials lists from the model
  • Focused specifically on residential design
  • Trial version available
  • 2D floor plans and a walkable 3D view in one app
  • Roof Assistant with 12 roof templates
All 4 strengths
  • 2D floor plans and a walkable 3D view in one app
  • Roof Assistant with 12 roof templates
  • Sunlight simulation based on the house's location
  • AI rendering up to 8K resolution
  • Expensive subscription aimed at professionals
  • Specialised for homes rather than general-purpose CAD
  • This edition is for macOS
  • Full features require a paid purchase
Downloadable app Downloadable app
Not open source Not open source
License not stated License not stated
Not stated if an account is needed Not stated if an account is needed
Not stated if it works offline Not stated if it works offline
Sources

Catalog checked September 24, 2026
Sources

Catalog checked October 2, 2026

“Not stated” means we have not confirmed it. Features can vary by device and plan.