How to Prepare for a Chief Architect Training Class


Scott Harris training a Chief Architect class.

Phillip Gibney Profile Image By Phillip Gibney

Chief Architect offers online and in-person training classes. These classes are an excellent way to increase your knowledge in the software, get your questions answered, connect with our staff, and network with industry peers. As a class participant, there are several things you can do to help prepare and ensure your success in a training class.

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Winners of the 2023 Design of the Year Contest


Chief Architect Software Design of the year winners, a collage of a Kitchen and Bath, Residential Design, and a Remodeling project.

2023 Chief Architect Design of the Year Contest Finalists


Modern kitchen space with dark accent base cabinets and full herringbone tile backsplash

Profile image of Danielle Schroeder By Danielle Schroeder

Chief Architect holds monthly design contests for customers to show off their work throughout the year. Designers with different backgrounds and design styles go head-to-head in the Kitchen, Bath and interiors, Residential, and Remodel/Addition categories.

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Top Home Improvement Projects to Build Equity and Increase Value


A render of the silverton sample plan designed in Chief Architect Software.

Phillip Gibney Profile Image By Phillip Gibney

For many, a home is not just a place to live, it’s also a way to build wealth and financial security. A common strategy for millions of homeowners looking to increase their home’s value is to complete home improvement projects. When considering which projects to pursue, estimating the project’s return on investment (ROI) early in the planning process is essential.  The ROI for a given home improvement project helps predict how much your home value might increase based on how much money you spend on the project. This is important because it can help you prioritize which home improvement projects to undertake based on your goals.  For example, if you spend $30,000 on a home project and this project increases the long-term value of your home by $30,000, then the ROI is 100%; however, if it increases the value of your home by $15,000, the ROI will only be 50% and may have you reprioritizing your list of home improvement projects. In this article, we will discuss home improvement projects that consistently have the best ROI and learn how 3D home design software can help ensure your next project is a success.

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Chief Challenge: B-52’s Tribute Project


Chief Architect Challenge Graphic

Derek's Profile Image by Derek Pedersen

The Chief Architect Challenge is a design exercise crafted to test your skills and encourage learning with fun and unique projects. The theme for this series is the B-52’s. How many design elements can you recreate in 10 minutes? Chief Architect staff will judge the entries – architectural elements are more important than colors & materials. Each Chief Challenge winner will receive a Limited-Edition Chief Architect Gear care kit.

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2024 Interior Design Trends That Will Transform Your Space


Modern home design with shed roof

Profile image of Danielle Schroeder By Danielle Schroeder

Welcome to the world of interior design, where trends constantly evolve and influence how we shape our living spaces. As we step into 2024, it’s time to explore the exciting interior design trends that will dominate the year.

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7 Principles of Home Design


3D rendering exterior modern farmhouse with pergola

Derek's Profile Image by Derek Pedersen

Home design can be a complex and multifaceted process that involves careful consideration of many different factors. From the practical and functional aspects of the space, such as flow and storage, to the more esthetic elements, such as color and texture, designing a home requires a thoughtful and intentional approach. The principles of home design provide a framework for creating a living space that is comfortable, functional, and visually appealing. By understanding these principles and incorporating them into the design process, it is possible to create a home that meets the specific needs and preferences of the occupants, while also being sustainable and environmentally responsible.

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How to Prepare for Chief Academy


Students in the Advanced Residential class at Chief Academy.

Author, Kerry Hansen By Kerry Hansen

Chief Architect is proud to have Chief Academy back and in person this year! Chief Academy is an excellent way to get inspired. Spend two and a half days learning new skills to increase your knowledge of the software. Connect with our staff, network with industry peers, test drive new products, get answers to your questions, and more. As a class participant, there are several things you can do to help prepare and ensure your success during your time at Chief Academy.

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Harnessing the Power of Chief Architect Software to Create a Pet-Friendly Home Design


Built in pet space with bed and additional storage for treats and other essentials.

Profile image of Danielle Schroeder By Danielle Schroeder

As pets become integral members of our families, designing homes that accommodate their needs and well-being has gained significant importance. Home design software offers a powerful toolset for envisioning, planning, and executing pet-friendly design solutions. By leveraging the capabilities of these software tools, homeowners and designers can create aesthetically pleasing, functional, and safe living spaces that cater to the needs of both humans and their beloved pets.

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Creating a Functional Home Using Chief Architect Software for Efficient Space Planning


Dollhouse floor plan view using Chief Architect

Profile image of Danielle Schroeder By Danielle Schroeder

We spend a significant portion of our lives in our homes. Our living spaces should be designed to be comfortable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing. Residential space planning can help you achieve an organized and well-planned living space.

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