Hello from Surrey

[Jason M]

I'm planning to build a garden room (man cave/gaming room ? ). I've only started my research. I'm also considering self-build as turnkey options seem quite pricey. I'm glad I come across this forum.

 

I'd like to sketch some ideas - e.g. draw the basic shape to fit my garden, position windows, furniture etc. I was wondering if somebody could recommend any software for simple 3d drawing? So far I've tried AutoCAD - a way too complex for a beginner, then Sketchup which doesn't seem too difficult to use but still it will require some learning.

 

Any recommendations? 

[MikeSharp01]

Welcome to THE forum for self builders and like minded individuals. Sketchup is the best for the job you are looking at and can probably take you all the way, so give that a go.

[Ed Davies]

1 hour ago, Jason M said:

then Sketchup which doesn't seem too difficult to use but still it will require some learning.

 

I like SketchUp but, yes, it does require some learning as its use of the control, shift and mouse buttons is err… unique. It's well worth watching a few YouTube tutorials on the basics to avoid some frustration. I've two blog posts on tricks with using it, the second of which contains some links which might be helpful:

 

https://edavies.me.uk/2012/12/sketchup-component-layers/

https://edavies.me.uk/2014/01/sketchup-components-and-groups/

[Jason M]

Thanks for your suggestions guys. Since posting my question I've found some other options:

 

http://www.sweethome3d.com/ - this is also quite complex but comes with a lot of furniture options

https://gardenroomplanner.com/ - this is dead simple, generally something I was hoping for but there seems to be no furniture option

 

I've been playing with sketchup, I think I'm starting to get a hang of it ?

Edited November 13, 2019 by Jason M

[Ferdinand]

If you want to get to know your own project then I would start with graph paper an a pencil. Seriously.

 

I use SweetHome3d, but it is not really good for garden layouts etc imo in that things like construction lines etc are awkward.