Free landscape design software is a great option for homeowners who want to visualize what their finished garden or property would look like, but who may not be able to afford to hire a professional. These programs often have a simple user interface and are designed with the average person in mind, making them suitable for most users. There are also more sophisticated programs available, but these usually require a higher level of technical expertise to use effectively.
One such program is Better Homes and Gardens’ Home Outside. This is a free, downloadable application that can be used on iPhones and iPads. This is targeted at homeowners and DIY enthusiasts, and offers a comprehensive range of features that help to make the design process quick and simple. It also helps the user to understand the possibilities that their property could offer, enabling them to more easily decide whether they should pursue a landscaping project.
Another popular choice is Trimble SketchUp, which is primarily a 3D modeling and rendering software. It is highly flexible, allowing designers to create pretty much any landscape they can imagine. There is a free in-browser version and a paid subscription for designers who require more advanced tools.
There are also several free landscape design apps on the market that can be downloaded to mobile devices. These are typically simpler and more basic than their desktop counterparts, but still offer a good level of functionality. For example, the iScapes app can be used on iPhones and iPads and allows users to quickly plan and visualize their gardens and outdoor spaces. It can even be used to present plans to contractors so that they have a clear idea of what the final result will be.
The iScapes app has the added advantage of being compatible with Apple Pencil, which makes it easier to create detailed drawings. It is easy to use and the graphical results can be very realistic. Another app that is similar in function is Structure Studios’ LandScape, which is a 2D landscape design program. This can be used with virtual reality headsets such as the Oculus Rift, and allows the user to walk around their designs. It can also be used to show off the results of a landscape design project in a 3D presentation.
iScapes and LandScape both come with extensive libraries of plants and other objects that can be placed in the designs. They also allow for the creation of pathways, fences, pools and decks. In addition, they can be used to create topographic landscapes and reshape terrain. They can be used by both novice and seasoned landscape designers.
While there are many free landscape design software options available, it is worth remembering that these programs tend to be less flexible than their more expensive counterparts. They are also unlikely to have the latest 3D rendering capabilities and may not include a large object library. For this reason, it is often preferable to purchase paid software that offers a wide range of features.