Best Apps for Exterior House Design: Top Picks for Your Next Project

When it comes to designing the exterior of your house, the right app can make all the difference. Whether you're looking to remodel, repaint, or start from scratch, a variety of tools can help you visualize and plan your dream home. Here’s a comprehensive look at the best apps for exterior house design, each with its unique features and advantages.

1. Houzz

Houzz is a versatile platform renowned for its extensive collection of home design photos and renovation ideas. With its user-friendly interface, you can browse through millions of images, save your favorites, and even connect with professionals. The app offers a “View in My Room” feature, allowing you to see how different exterior designs and colors will look on your own home. This can be incredibly useful for visualizing potential changes before committing to them.

Features:

• Large database of design photos
• Professional directory
• "View in My Room" feature
• Integration with shopping options

2. Home Design 3D

Home Design 3D is an intuitive app that lets you create detailed 3D models of your home’s exterior. This tool is particularly useful for experimenting with different layouts, colors, and materials. You can easily drag and drop elements, and the app provides a comprehensive view of both 2D and 3D designs. It also supports VR mode for an immersive experience.

Features:

• 3D modeling
• Drag-and-drop functionality
• VR support
• Comprehensive material library

3. Porch

Porch is an app designed to help homeowners with their renovation projects by connecting them with local professionals. Its exterior design tool allows you to explore different design options and find inspiration based on your preferences. You can also use the app to request quotes and manage your renovation projects.

Features:

• Local professional connections
• Design inspiration
• Quote requests
• Project management tools

4. Sherwin-Williams ColorSnap® Visualizer

If you're focused on selecting the perfect paint color for your home’s exterior, Sherwin-Williams ColorSnap® Visualizer is an excellent choice. The app allows you to upload a photo of your home and experiment with various paint colors. You can see how different shades will look in different lighting conditions and even save your favorite palettes for future reference.

Features:

• Color visualization
• Photo upload and editing
• Light condition simulation
• Palette saving

5. Magicplan

Magicplan is a versatile app that helps with both interior and exterior design by allowing you to create floor plans and measure spaces using just your smartphone. For exterior projects, you can use it to create accurate layouts, plan landscaping, and visualize various design elements. The app also supports exporting plans in various formats.

Features:

• Space measurement
• Layout creation
• Landscape planning
• Export options

6. Planner 5D

Planner 5D is another robust tool that offers detailed 2D and 3D modeling for your home’s exterior. The app provides a wide range of design elements, from architectural features to landscaping options. You can customize every aspect of your design and view it from different angles. Additionally, the app’s user-friendly interface makes it accessible for both beginners and professionals.

Features:

• Detailed 2D and 3D modeling
• Customizable design elements
• Multiple viewing angles
• User-friendly interface

7. iScape

iScape is specifically geared towards landscape design. If your exterior design involves a significant landscaping component, this app will help you visualize garden layouts, plant placements, and outdoor features. You can import photos of your yard, experiment with different plants and hardscapes, and see how your ideas will look in real life.

Features:

• Landscape visualization
• Plant and hardscape options
• Photo import
• Real-life simulation

8. DreamPlan Home Design Software

DreamPlan Home Design Software is a comprehensive tool for both interior and exterior design. It offers a range of features, including 3D modeling, material selection, and landscaping options. The app is designed to be intuitive and easy to use, making it a great choice for homeowners who want to create detailed designs without a steep learning curve.

Features:

• 3D modeling
• Material and color selection
• Landscaping options
• Intuitive interface

9. Autodesk Homestyler

Autodesk Homestyler is a free app that allows you to create and visualize exterior home designs in a simple and effective way. You can experiment with various design elements, materials, and colors. The app also offers a range of pre-designed templates and inspiration galleries to help you get started.

Features:

• Design templates
• Color and material experimentation
• Inspiration galleries
• Free access

10. Exterior Home Design

Exterior Home Design is a specialized app that focuses solely on the exterior aspects of your home. It offers a range of tools for visualizing different design options, from siding and roofing to landscaping and outdoor features. The app’s straightforward interface makes it easy to explore various design possibilities and see how they will impact your home’s curb appeal.

Features:

• Exterior design focus
• Siding and roofing options
• Landscaping tools
• User-friendly interface

Choosing the Right App

When selecting the best app for your exterior house design, consider your specific needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a comprehensive design tool with 3D capabilities, Home Design 3D or Planner 5D might be ideal. For those focused on paint colors, Sherwin-Williams ColorSnap® Visualizer is a top choice. If connecting with professionals is important, Porch is a great option.

Conclusion

Each of these apps offers unique features that can assist in designing and visualizing your home’s exterior. By choosing the right tool, you can streamline the design process, experiment with different ideas, and ultimately achieve a stunning result that enhances your home’s curb appeal.