Navigating the sea of kitchen design software can feel overwhelming, can’t it? With so many options, pinpointing that perfect solution for your specific needs can be daunting.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional crafting dream kitchens for clients, or a homeowner embarking on a personal kitchen makeover, the right software can make all the difference.
This comprehensive guide dives into the 14 best kitchen design software tools of 2024. From free options to professional-grade suites, we’ve got you covered. Discover how these tools can transform your kitchen design process, making it more efficient, creative, and profitable.
Jump ahead to:
Why the Pros Use Kitchen Design Programs – 3 Reasons
10 Key Features You NEED in Your Kitchen Design Software
7. HGTV Kitchen Design Software
12. Prodboard Online Kitchen Planner
Why the Pros Use Kitchen Design Programs – 3 Reasons
Professionals in the housing industry are increasingly turning to kitchen design software, and it’s not just about keeping up with technology. These programs revolutionize how they approach design.
- Streamlined Efficiency and Unparalleled Accuracy: Imagine cutting down design time while boosting precision. That’s what kitchen design software brings to the table. It’s not just about faster layouts, it’s also about ensuring that every measurement is spot-on. This blend of speed and accuracy is a game-changer for any project.
- Bringing Ideas to Life with 3D Visualizations: Clients often struggle to visualize a finished kitchen from 2D blueprints. That’s where kitchen design software comes in. It transforms sketches into realistic 3D models. These vivid renderings help clients see their future kitchen which makes decision-making smoother and more interactive.
- Collaboration Made Easy: Design is rarely a solo endeavor. The best kitchen design software fosters a collaborative environment, where sharing ideas and receiving client feedback is seamless. This open line of communication ensures that the final design truly reflects your client’s vision.
So what should you be looking for in kitchen design software?
8 Key Features You NEED in Your Kitchen Design Software
To choose the right kitchen design program, you need to consider a blend of features that matches your needs. Here are 8 you should look for:
- Realistic 3D Renderings: Top-notch software should offer high-quality 3D visualization. This allows designers and clients to see lifelike representations of the proposed spaces and makes it easier to visualize the end result. These renderings, when added to project proposals, help you convert more potential clients into paying customers!
- Intuitive User Interface: The ease of use is crucial. An intuitive interface saves time and lets you focus more on design than on figuring out how the software works.
- Fast Rendering Speeds: Cloud-based software with fast rendering capabilities ensures that you can make quick revisions and present ideas without unnecessary delays.
- Accurate and Detailed Drawing Tools: Precision is key in kitchen design. The best software provides tools for accurate measurements and detailed drawings.
- Extensive Product Libraries: A comprehensive library of appliances, fixtures and finishes is essential. This variety allows for more creativity and customization in your designs.
- Easy Collaboration and Sharing: Software that facilitates smooth collaboration between designers, clients and contractors streamlines the design process and enhances communication.
- Customer Support and Training Resources: Good software is backed by excellent customer support and ample training materials to help you make the most of its features. So look for companies that offer personalized support that is easy to contact.
- Cost-Effectiveness: A balance of features and pricing is crucial. The best software offers a range of functionalities at a reasonable price point.
Not sure which software has the best combination of those key features? Check out the #1 option in the next section.
14 The Top Kitchen Design Software
Here we’ve detailed the primary use cases, top features, and key information of 14 of the best kitchen design tools below, so you can choose the right one for you and your business.
1. Cedreo
Best for: Professional home builders, remodelers, and interior designers
With Cedreo, designers like you can quickly create detailed floor plans, produce stunning 3D renderings, and efficiently manage projects.
One of its most notable features is its high-quality, rapid 3D rendering capabilities, which helps you present realistic visualizations to clients with ease. This feature not only improves communication with your clients, but also aids in making faster design decisions. Also, Cedreo offers an extensive library of customizable design elements, catering to a wide range of styles and preferences. This makes it really easy for you to tailor designs to your client’s needs.
Cedreo’s intuitive interface is also designed for quick learning. That means even if you are new to 3D design, you can become proficient at using the software with minimal training.
This ease of use, combined with advanced features like intelligent drawing tools and a comprehensive product library, makes Cedreo a top choice for professionals looking to elevate their kitchen design offerings.
Pros:
- Intuitive interface suitable for quick learning and use
- High-quality, fast 3D rendering for realistic visual presentations
- Extensive, customizable product library for diverse design needs
- Integrates with CostCertified for streamlined estimating
- Full-featured interior design software
Cons:
- No option for producing or editing .DWG files
Top Features:
- Create a full set of 2D and 3D plans in as little as 2 hours
- Get high-quality 3D renderings in 5 minutes or less
- Access a library of 10,000+ customizable home decorations and materials
- Import blueprints
- Alter light orientation
- Intelligent tools to streamline your workflow
- Share kitchen design projects within teams
- Get one-to-one training sessions and phone support
Cedreo’s combination of user-friendliness and advanced capabilities makes it an invaluable tool for professionals who want to create impressive, efficient kitchen designs faster than ever!
Try it for FREE today! Or see all of our pricing options.
2. Planner 5D
Best For: Homeowners, DIY enthusiasts, and amateur designers.
Planner 5D is a versatile kitchen design tool that caters to both casual users, like homeowners and DIY enthusiasts, and professionals seeking a straightforward design solution. Its main appeal lies in its simplicity and ease of use which makes it a go-to choice for those who are new to kitchen design.
You can start from scratch or choose from a variety of templates to kickstart your kitchen projects. Planner 5D operates on a drag-and-drop interface so it’s easy to manipulate and place design elements. The software also supports basic 3D rendering, helping users visualize their kitchen layouts in a more tangible way.
It has a surprising amount of features for the price, but if you’re doing anything more than simple DIY products, you may find that it’s missing some of the essential features you need.
Pros:
- Highly intuitive and user-friendly, good for beginners
- Cross-platform availability enhances accessibility
- Library of design elements for creative freedom
Cons:
- Limited advanced features for complex, professional-grade design
- The free version has restrictions, meaning you’ll need to upgrade for full functionality
Top Features:
- HD visualizations
- User-generated design catalog with 3,000+ items
- 2D and 3D design modes
- Automated furniture arrangement
3. Roomstyler
Best For: Hobbyists and individuals looking for a simple tool for personal projects and idea generation
Roomstyler is an entry-level kitchen design tool, primarily suited for hobbyists or those tackling personal design projects. It offers a basic platform for users to experiment with different kitchen layouts and styles. Roomstyler’s strength lies in its simplicity, allowing users to quickly select and place items from a catalog of kitchen elements.
However, its simplicity can be a double-edged sword. For professionals or those looking for detailed customization and high-quality renderings, Roomstyler may fall short. It serves as a decent starting point for novices but lacks the capabilities required for comprehensive, client-facing projects.
Pros:
- Straightforward and easy to navigate, suitable for beginners
- Basic functionality for simple kitchen layout planning
- Add products from real brands
Cons:
- Limited design options and lower-quality renderings
- Not the best for professional use or detailed project planning
Top Features:
- Supports both 2D design and 3D rendering
- Furnishings from real-life brands
- User tutorial videos
4. Homestyler
Best For: Casual users and professional designers in the early stages of design exploration
Homestyler offers a generous amount of features ranging from 2D layouts to 3D visualizations. Its primary draw is the ability to create layouts quickly with easy-to-use tools.
It has a varied design library which includes some pieces from real brands that you can add to your designs. Homestyler also offers the ability to do virtual project walkthroughs.
While it is relatively easy to use, it would be nice if they had some more options for personalized support and learning, instead of relying on forums and generic contact forms.
Pros:
- Intuitive interface, good for beginners and casual users
- Basic tools for initial layout and design visualization
- Virtual project walkthroughs
- Use furniture from real brands
Cons:
- Limited personalized support options
Top Features:
- Supports both 2D and 3D floor plans
- Vast furniture library that includes thousands of furniture products from world-famous brands
- Immersive visualizations for walking through your design
5. SmartDraw
Best For: Businesses needing quick schematic diagrams and basic 2D layouts
SmartDraw is a diagramming tool with capabilities that extend to basic kitchen design. It’s best suited for businesses that require quick schematic diagrams rather than detailed, 3D kitchen designs.
SmartDraw offers a variety of templates, which can be useful for creating simple layouts swiftly. However, it lacks the specialized features and 3D rendering capabilities of dedicated kitchen remodeling software like Cedreo.
While it’s a great choice for creating basic floor plans and organizational charts, when it comes to creating visually detailed and client-ready 3D kitchen designs, SmartDraw may not be the best choice.
Pros:
- Easy to use for basic diagramming and layout needs
- Useful for quick schematic drawings and organizational charts
Cons:
- Lacks specialized features for detailed kitchen design
- No 3D renderings
Top Features:
- Detailed and accurate 2D designs
- 4,500+ templates and 34,000+ symbols
- Simple, easy-to-use interface
6. ProKitchen Software
Best For: Designers and showrooms specializing in kitchens
ProKitchen Software is a niche tool, tailored specifically for professional kitchen designers and showrooms. It offers a range of targeted features, including an extensive product catalog linked to real cabinet and appliance manufacturers. Just keep in mind that you may have to pay extra for the full catalog.
It also has some unique tools that let you give clients a virtual tour of your kitchen project using the virtual reality headset.
It also has a nice variety of tutorial videos to get you started as well as a PK University with online training (at the time of writing the trainings cost $625).
Pros:
- Extensive product catalog for detailed planning
- Specialized features suited for professional kitchen design
- VR showroom using Oculus Quest virtual reality
Cons:
- Full catalog of products to use in your designs only available with the most expensive plan
- Slower rendering speeds and lower quality compared to leading software
- Not useful if you design more than just kitchens
Top Features:
- Detailed product and materials library for customization
- Specific tools tailored for kitchen design professionals
- Compatible with both MacOS and PC
- Design with products and appliances from real brands
7. HGTV Kitchen Design Software
Best For: Individual consumers
HGTV Kitchen Design Software is geared towards homeowners and DIY enthusiasts, particularly those who are fans of HGTV’s design shows. The software offers a user-friendly interface that makes it easy for beginners to create basic kitchen designs.
You can draw inspiration from various HGTV-style templates and apply them to your projects. It also offers a nice range of creative tools and a wide selection of materials, paint and fabrics, countertops, cabinets, appliances, flooring, and more.
However, when it comes to professional-level design and detailed customization, HGTV Kitchen Design Software has its limitations. It lacks the advanced tools and high-quality rendering capabilities that are essential for professional users.
Pros:
- Simple and intuitive, great for beginners and HGTV enthusiasts
- Offers inspiration through HGTV-style design templates
Cons:
- Limited in professional-grade tools and customization
- Lower-quality renderings, not ideal for detailed presentations
Top Features:
- Supports 2D and 3D design
- Technical support and how-to tips included
- Simple, drag-and-drop software
8. IKEA 3D Kitchen Planner
Best For: Individual consumers planning a kitchen with IKEA products
The IKEA 3D Kitchen Planner is a tool specifically designed for individuals planning to purchase and install IKEA kitchen products. It’s an ideal solution for customers who already have a preference for IKEA’s product range and style.
The software lets you select and place IKEA products into your kitchen layout and then provides a basic visualization of how IKEA items will fit into your space. While it serves as a helpful tool for planning out IKEA kitchens, its utility is limited outside of this specific purpose.
Pros:
- Tailored for planning kitchens with IKEA products
- Straightforward and easy for IKEA customers to use
Cons:
- Limited to IKEA product range
- Basic rendering and design tools
Top Features:
- Modern products make it easy to design
- Generate a shopping list so you know exactly what you’ll need to buy and how much the final project will cost
- Option to hire a kitchen designer from IKEA to help (for a fee)
9. SketchUp
Best For: Professional designers and architects who need a versatile 3D modeling tool
SketchUp is popular for its versatility and is widely used by professionals in architecture and design, including kitchen design. Its strength lies in its detailed 3D modeling platform for creating intricate and precise designs.
However, its broad scope means it’s not exclusively focused on kitchen design (or interior design for that matter), which can be a drawback for those seeking specialized home building and remodeling design features. The learning curve for SketchUp can be steep for beginners, particularly for those who have not used 3D modeling software before.
However, if you’ve got some 3D experience or are willing to commit to learning it, SketchUp gives you one of the largest ranges of capabilities short of full-on 3D CAD software.
Pros:
- Powerful 3D modeling capabilities let advanced users create detailed, high-quality designs
- Highly versatile, suitable for a range of professional design needs
- Expandable with additional plug-ins and extensions (most are for purchase)
Cons:
- Steep learning curve, especially for beginners
- Not exclusively focused on kitchen design, which can be overwhelming
Top Features:
- Advanced 3D modeling tools
- Extensive functionality for various design applications
- Large library of user-generated 3D models
10. Coohom
Best For: Interior designers and remodeling professionals
Coohom aims to be an all-inclusive interior design solution. It offers a wide range of tools like 3D modeling, video tours, detailed construction drawings, and team collaboration.
While Coohom is user-friendly and offers a wide range of tools for kitchen and interior design, make sure you read the fine print. The base price may not seem like much, but you do have to pay more for better customer support and advanced options.
Pros:
- Extensive toolset
- 3D images, panoramas, and videos
- Nice range of tutorials, some of which focus on kitchen and bath design
Cons:
- Lack of clarity with their pricing
- Need to pay extra for better customer support
- Need to pay extra for kitchen and bath custom furniture design
Top Features:
- Easy-to-use interface
- 3D modeling capabilities
- High-quality renderings
- Upload your own 3D models
11. Foyr
Best For: Professionals who need an interior design solution
Foyr is a cloud-based interior design software that offers a range of tools suitable for both professionals and new users. Its main advantage is the convenience of cloud-based operation, allowing users to access their designs from anywhere and harness the power of Foyr’s servers for fast renderings.
Foyr provides a decent selection of features for kitchen design, including 3D visualizations and a library of design elements. However, while it offers a nice range of interior design features, it stops there. So if you are a builder, remodeler, or designer who also tackles landscape designs, patio designs, or home additions, you’ll want to look elsewhere for your software.
Pros:
- Cloud-based for easy access and collaboration
- Suitable for a range of interior design purposes, including basic kitchen design
- Design library with 1,000s of objects, including kitchen cabinets
Cons:
- Limited to interior design, so it may not be for you if you do more than just interior projects
Top Features:
- Cloud-based software
- Extensive design library
- Smart tools make it easy to accurately place furniture and decorations
12. Prodboard Online Kitchen Planner
Best For: Online retailers looking for a planning tool to add to their website
Prodboard Online Kitchen Planner is designed primarily for online retailers who need a straightforward, web-based tool for kitchen planning they can integrate into their own website. Integrate the tool into your website, upload your own product catalog, set the prices, and then customers can design kitchens using your own products.
Pros:
- Upload your own product catalogs
- Integration via API onto your own website
Cons:
- Low quality renderings
- Generic material options
- Limited to certain interior design types
Top Features:
- Easily check the cost of furniture in the design
- Also includes a closet planner option
13. 2020 Kitchen Design
Best For: Professional kitchen and office designers looking for comprehensive planning tools.
2020 Kitchen Design is a comprehensive software aimed at professional kitchen designers. It offers a wide array of features, including an extensive product catalog and sophisticated design tools. The software is known for its detailed planning capabilities and is often used for creating intricate kitchen designs.
However, the complexity of 2020 Kitchen Design can also be its drawback, as it comes with a significant learning curve and may feel overwhelming for beginners or those looking for a more straightforward tool.
Pros:
- Extensive feature set for detailed kitchen planning
- Comprehensive product catalog for customization
- High-quality renderings
Cons:
- Steep learning curve and complex interface
- Expensive
- Desktop software (not cloud-based)
Top Features:
- Advanced design and planning tools
- Detailed product and material library
14. Chief Architect
Best For: Professional architects and designers requiring detailed architectural features
Chief Architect is a robust software package geared towards professionals in architecture and design. It offers detailed tools for creating comprehensive kitchen designs as part of larger architectural projects. Use it to create material lists, 3D models, framing plans, and other types of drawings.
Its strength lies in its architectural precision and advanced customization options. However, this focus on detailed architectural aspects means it might be more complex and feature-heavy for users solely interested in kitchen design. And the software’s extensive capabilities are accompanied by a steep learning curve.
Pros:
- High-level architectural precision for detailed projects
- Advanced customization and design tools
Cons:
- Complex and feature-heavy for users focused solely on kitchen design
- Steeper learning curve, not ideal for quick or straightforward projects
- 3D renderings can be hard to create and are of lower quality than easy-to-use 3D programs like Cedreo
Top Features:
- CAD-like software tools for drawing lines, polylines, arcs, etc.
- Create mechanical drawings for HVAC, electrical and plumbing
- Choose from a variety of 3D rendering styles like watercolor and line drawing
Start Creating Better Kitchen Designs Today
The kitchen is one of the most important rooms in the home, as it’s where many families spend the most amount of time together. To make sure it is perfect, choosing the right kitchen design software is critical.
As a starting point, we recommend checking out the companies that stood out to you the most from this list. Chances are, they offer a free trial or demo option so you can take it for a test drive before deciding to invest your money. If you are looking for something more simple, like just simply virtual staging, there are programs for that as well.
For those who seek a balance of ease-of-use and professional capabilities, Cedreo stands out. Its benefits for kitchen design and remodeling professionals include:
- Quick and efficient design process with user-friendly tools
- High-quality 3D renderings that bring your ideas to life
- Extensive customizable library to suit any style or requirement
Want to see how Cedreo can help you create and sell more kitchen design projects? Get started now or get in touch with our sales team today.
Kitchen Design Software FAQs
Can I Make 3D Designs with Kitchen Remodel Design Tools?
Yes, most modern kitchen design tools offer 3D design capabilities, allowing you to create detailed, lifelike visualizations of your kitchen remodel.
Are There Virtual Kitchen Design Tools that Integrate With Specific Cabinet Retailers?
Yes, some kitchen design tools (like IKEA 3D Kitchen Planner and ProKitchen Software) integrate with specific cabinet retailers, making it easier to plan and visualize using actual products from these suppliers.
How Do Kitchen Cabinet Design Programs Help in Creating Organized Kitchens with Smart Storage?
Kitchen cabinet design programs enable you to experiment with different storage solutions and layouts, helping to optimize space and create a more organized kitchen.
How Do I Plan a New Kitchen Layout?
Planning a new kitchen layout typically involves assessing your space, determining the workflow (considering the classic kitchen triangle), and using design software like Cedreo to visualize and tweak your plan.
Can I Design My Kitchen Online?
Yes, many kitchen design software options (like Cedreo) are available online, allowing you to design and visualize your kitchen remodel anywhere you have wifi.
What are the 3 Main Types of Layouts for Kitchens?
The three main types of kitchen layouts are the U-shape, L-shape, and galley layout, each offering different advantages depending on your space and needs.
