The most popular interior design tools, organized by deliverable

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Organized by deliverables, this is a guide that hopefully helps designers find the right software for the right interior design deliverable & phase.

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The process for designing interior spaces is fragmented and requires interior designers to bring together disparate requirements into a cohesive spatial solution. Interior design software can help this process tremendously.

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Our list:

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Read on to see how each of these plays into each of the different deliverables of an interior designer.

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Presentations, Boards, Mood Boards & Material Boards

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A mood board in interior design is a visual tool that conveys the overall look, feel, and aesthetic of a design concept or project. It is a collage or presentation board that incorporates a variety of images, materials, textures, colors, patterns, and other design elements to capture the essence and mood of the intended design.

Key elements of a mood board include:

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Images: Mood boards feature a collection of images that represent the desired style, ambiance, and theme of the design concept. These images may include photographs of interior spaces, furniture pieces, decor items, architectural details, landscapes, textures, and patterns.
Materials and Textures: Mood boards often include samples or images of materials and textures that will be used in the design, such as fabrics, upholstery, flooring, wall coverings, finishes, and surfaces. This helps convey the tactile and visual qualities of the design elements.
Color Palette: Mood boards showcase the color scheme and palette of the design concept through swatches, paint chips, or images of colors found in nature, artwork, or design inspirations. Colors play a crucial role in setting the mood and atmosphere of the space.
Typography and Graphics: Some mood boards incorporate typography, lettering, or graphic elements to convey additional information, quotes, or branding associated with the design concept.
Themes and Inspirations: Mood boards often include annotations, notes, or captions that provide context, inspiration, and insights into the design concept. Designers may describe the intended mood, theme, influences, or objectives of the design to communicate their vision effectively.

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Mood boards serve as a visual reference and communication tool for designers, clients, and stakeholders, helping to convey design ideas, explore different concepts, and ensure alignment on the overall vision for a project. They provide a tangible and immersive representation of the design concept, fostering creativity, inspiration, and collaboration throughout the design process.

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List of Software for creating mood boards

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Powerpoint
Miro
Google Slides
Canoa

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Programming

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In the context of space planning, a program refers to a comprehensive document that outlines the requirements, objectives, and functional criteria for designing a specific interior space or building. The program serves as a blueprint for understanding the needs, goals, and constraints of the project, providing guidance for the development of space plans and design solutions.

Key components of a space planning program typically include:

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‍Functional Requirements: The program specifies the functional requirements of the space, including the intended use, activities, and functions that the space must accommodate. It identifies the types of rooms, areas, and functional zones needed to support the activities and operations of the space.
Spatial Relationships: The program outlines the desired spatial relationships between different rooms and areas within the space, indicating how they should be organized, connected, and arranged to facilitate efficient workflows and user interactions.
Space Allocation: It defines the desired allocation of space for each function, specifying the size, dimensions, and proportions of rooms and areas based on functional needs and user requirements.
Furniture and Equipment Requirements: The program identifies the furniture, fixtures, and equipment needed to support the activities and functions of the space. It specifies the types, quantities, sizes, and configurations of furniture and equipment required for each room or area.
User Needs and Preferences: The program takes into account the needs, preferences, and priorities of the users or occupants of the space, considering factors such as comfort, accessibility, safety, and aesthetics.
Budget and Schedule Constraints: The program establishes budgetary constraints and project timelines, outlining the financial resources and timeframes available for the design and implementation of the space plan.

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Space planning programs provide a structured framework for defining project objectives, setting design criteria, and guiding the decision-making process throughout the design and planning phases of a project. They help designers, architects, and clients align their expectations, communicate their vision, and develop tailored design solutions that meet the functional, aesthetic, and operational requirements of the space.

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List of software for programming:

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Powerpoint
Google slides
Miro
Canoa
AutoCad
Revit

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Space Planning & Layouts

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A space plan is a detailed layout or diagram that illustrates the organization, arrangement, and allocation of spaces within a building or interior environment. It provides a visual representation of how rooms, areas, and functional zones are organized and connected to one another within a space.

Key components of a space plan include:

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Room Layout: The space plan outlines the layout and dimensions of individual rooms, including their size, shape, and orientation within the overall space.
Spatial Relationships: It depicts the spatial relationships between different rooms and areas, indicating how they flow and connect to one another to create a cohesive and functional layout.
Traffic Flow: The space plan considers the flow of movement within the space, including pathways, circulation routes, and access points between rooms and areas. It ensures that traffic flow is efficient and unobstructed.
Furniture Placement: It specifies the placement and arrangement of furniture, fixtures, and equipment within each room, optimizing the use of space and ensuring ergonomic and functional layouts.
Functional Zones: The space plan delineates functional zones or areas within the space, such as living areas, dining areas, workspaces, storage areas, circulation zones, and service areas.
Access and Circulation: It identifies entry points, exits, doorways, corridors, and other circulation elements that facilitate movement throughout the space.

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Space plans are essential tools in interior design, architecture, and facility planning, serving as blueprints for designing and organizing interior environments effectively. They help designers and planners visualize spatial layouts, optimize space utilization, and ensure that design solutions meet the functional requirements and user needs of the space. Additionally, space plans provide valuable guidance for construction, renovation, and interior design projects, facilitating coordination and communication among architects, designers, contractors, and clients.

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List of software commonly used for space planning:

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AutoCad
Revit
Bluebeam
Canoa
Hypar

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Detail Design, Plans, Sections, Elevations & RCPs

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In interior design, plans, elevations, and reflected ceiling plans are essential architectural drawings used to communicate design concepts, spatial relationships, and construction details.

Here's a brief overview of each:

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Floor Plans (Plans): Floor plans are horizontal drawings that illustrate the layout and spatial organization of a space from a bird's-eye view. They show the arrangement of walls, doors, windows, built-in elements, furniture, and fixtures within a room or building. Floor plans provide a detailed representation of the floor layout and are essential for understanding circulation patterns, functionality, and zoning within the space.
Elevations: Elevations are vertical drawings that depict the vertical surfaces, such as walls, cabinetry, and architectural features, within a space as viewed from different angles. Elevations provide a clear representation of the height, scale, proportions, and visual composition of the interior elements. They convey design details, material selections, and aesthetic considerations that may not be apparent in floor plans alone.
Reflected Ceiling Plans (RCP): Reflected ceiling plans are drawings that depict the ceiling layout and features as viewed from below. They illustrate the location of lighting fixtures, ceiling fans, HVAC vents, sprinklers, architectural details, and other elements mounted on the ceiling. Reflected ceiling plans also indicate ceiling heights, soffits, bulkheads, and any other ceiling features that impact the spatial experience of the room. The term "reflected" implies that the drawing shows the ceiling as if it were reflected onto a mirror placed on the floor, providing a comprehensive view of the ceiling layout.

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Together, plans, elevations, and reflected ceiling plans form a set of architectural drawings that enable interior designers, architects, contractors, and clients to visualize the proposed design, understand spatial relationships, and coordinate construction details effectively. These drawings serve as essential communication tools throughout the design and construction process, guiding the implementation of the design vision and ensuring the successful realization of the project.

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List of software commonly used to create plans, elevations and reflected ceiling plans:

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AutoCad
Revit
SketchUp
Arcol
Rayon

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Furniture & Accessories Plans

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A furniture plan is a detailed layout or diagram that specifies the placement and arrangement of furniture within a given space. It is an essential component of interior design and space planning, providing a visual representation of how furniture pieces will be positioned to optimize functionality, traffic flow, and aesthetic appeal.

A furniture plan typically includes the following elements:

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Room Dimensions: The dimensions of the room or space where the furniture will be placed are outlined on the plan, including the length, width, and height.
Furniture Layout: The plan depicts the location and orientation of each furniture item within the space. This includes sofas, chairs, tables, beds, cabinets, and other furnishings.
Furniture Schedule: The schedule lists the quantity, categories, products and product tags necessary to identify, locate and properly quote a furniture layout.
Clearances and Traffic Flow: Consideration is given to clearances around furniture pieces and pathways for movement within the space. Adequate space is allocated to ensure comfortable circulation and accessibility.
Scale and Proportion: The scale and proportion of furniture items are carefully considered to ensure they are in harmony with the size and scale of the room. Oversized or undersized furniture can disrupt the visual balance of the space.
Functionality: The furniture plan takes into account the functional requirements of the space and the activities that will take place within it. Furniture is arranged to support these activities and optimize usability.
Aesthetic Considerations: Design elements such as balance, symmetry, and focal points are incorporated into the furniture plan to create a cohesive and visually appealing arrangement.

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Furniture plans are typically created by interior designers or space planners using design software or hand-drawn sketches. They serve as a roadmap for furniture placement during the design and installation process, helping designers and clients visualize the final layout of the space and make informed decisions about furniture selection and arrangement.

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Here's an example of a furniture plan made with Canoa.

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List of software commonly used for creating furniture plans:

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AutoCad
Canoa
CET

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Furniture Schedules

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A furniture schedule is a comprehensive document in interior design and project management that provides detailed information about each piece of furniture specified for a particular space. This document serves as a reference guide for all stakeholders involved in the design, procurement, and installation of furniture.

The content of a furniture schedule can vary, but it typically includes the following key elements:

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Item Description: A clear and concise description of each furniture item, including its type (e.g., chair, table, desk), style, and any distinguishing features.
Manufacturer or Supplier: The name of the manufacturer or supplier of the furniture item.
Model or Style Number: A unique identifier assigned to the specific model or style of the furniture.
Quantity: The number of units of each furniture item to be included in the space.
Dimensions: Exact measurements of the furniture item, including height, width, depth, and any other relevant dimensions.
Materials: Information about the materials used in the construction of the furniture, such as wood, metal, upholstery fabric, etc.
Finish: Details about the finish or color of the furniture item, if applicable.
Location: The intended location or placement of each furniture item within the space, as indicated on the furniture plan.
Other Notes or Specifications: Any additional notes or specifications relevant to the furniture item, such as special features, customization options, or assembly instructions.
Budget and Cost Information: The cost of each furniture item, along with the overall budget for the entire furniture package.
Warranty Information: Details about any warranties or guarantees provided by the manufacturer, including duration and coverage.
Certifications: Details about manufacturing, material and supply chain certifications provided by the manufacturer and usually completed by a third party.

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Furniture schedules are essential for coordinating the procurement and installation of furniture, ensuring that the specified items align with the design intent, meet quality standards, and are delivered and installed according to the project timeline. They provide a centralized and organized reference for designers, clients, contractors, and suppliers involved in the project.

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List of software commonly used for creating product schedules:

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Spec
Canoa
Revit
Excel or Google Sheets
Airtable

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Lighting Schedules

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A lighting schedule is a detailed document that provides information about the lighting fixtures specified for a building or interior space. It serves as a reference guide for architects, designers, contractors, and other stakeholders involved in the design, installation, and maintenance of lighting systems.

Key components of a lighting schedule typically include:

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Fixture Description: A description of each lighting fixture, including its type (e.g., recessed downlight, pendant light, track light), model, and manufacturer.
Fixture Location: The intended location or placement of each lighting fixture within the space, as indicated on lighting plans or architectural drawings.
Quantity: The number of units of each lighting fixture required for the project, based on the lighting design and illuminance requirements of the space.
Wattage: The power consumption of each lighting fixture, measured in watts, which indicates the amount of energy consumed when the fixture is in use.
Light Source: Information about the type of light source used in each fixture, such as incandescent, fluorescent, LED, or halogen.
Color Temperature: The color temperature of the light emitted by each fixture, measured in Kelvin (K), which indicates the perceived warmth or coolness of the light.
Color Rendering Index (CRI): The color rendering index of each fixture, which measures its ability to accurately render colors compared to natural daylight.
Control System: Details about any lighting control systems or dimming controls associated with each fixture, including specifications for switches, dimmers, sensors, and programmable settings.
Emergency Lighting: Information about emergency lighting fixtures and exit signs installed for safety and code compliance purposes.
Energy Efficiency and Sustainability Features: Specifications for energy-efficient lighting fixtures, such as ENERGY STAR certification, DLC (DesignLights Consortium) qualification, or compliance with other energy efficiency standards and green building certifications.
Cost Information: The cost of each lighting fixture, including installation and maintenance costs, along with the overall budget for the lighting package.

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Lighting schedules help ensure that lighting designs meet the functional, aesthetic, and regulatory requirements of the space while also providing guidance for procurement, installation, and commissioning activities. They facilitate coordination among project stakeholders, streamline the specification process, and help minimize errors and discrepancies during the construction and implementation phases of a project.

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A list of commonly used software for creating lighting schedules:

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AutoCad
Revit
Excel

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Finish Schedules

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A material schedule is a comprehensive document that lists and describes the materials to be used in a construction project or interior design endeavor. It serves as a reference guide for architects, designers, contractors, and suppliers, providing detailed information about the types, quantities, specifications, and sources of materials required for the project.

Key components of a material schedule typically include:

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Material Description: A clear and concise description of each material, including its type, category, and purpose within the project.
Quantity: The amount or quantity of each material required for the project, specified in units such as square meters, cubic meters, linear meters, or pieces.
Specifications: Detailed specifications for each material, including quality standards, grade, size, thickness, color, texture, finish, and other relevant attributes.
Manufacturer or Supplier: The name and contact information of the manufacturer, supplier, or distributor of each material.
Product Code or Model Number: A unique identifier assigned to each material, such as a product code, model number, or SKU (stock keeping unit).
Source or Origin: Information about the source or origin of each material, including the country of manufacture, production facility, or quarry.
Cost Information: The cost of each material, including unit cost, total cost, and any additional expenses such as shipping, handling, or taxes.
Lead Time: The lead time or delivery schedule for each material, indicating the expected time frame for procurement, delivery, and installation.
Substitutions and Alternatives: Any approved substitutions or alternatives for specific materials, along with guidelines or criteria for evaluating and approving substitutions.
Compliance and Certifications: Information about regulatory compliance, certifications, and standards applicable to each material, such as environmental certifications, fire ratings, or safety standards.
Special Instructions or Notes: Any special instructions, requirements, or considerations related to the use, handling, or installation of specific materials.

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Material schedules help ensure that construction projects and interior design projects are executed efficiently, accurately, and according to specifications. They facilitate communication and coordination among project stakeholders, streamline the procurement process, and help prevent errors, delays, and cost overruns associated with material selection and sourcing. Additionally, material schedules provide a valuable record of materials used in the project for future reference, maintenance, and renovation purposes.

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A list of software commonly used to create finish schedules:

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Revit
AutoCad
Canoa
Excel

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3D Visualization

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3D renderings in interior design are realistic visualizations or computer-generated images that depict how a space will look once the design concept is implemented. These renderings provide clients, designers, and stakeholders with a detailed and lifelike representation of the proposed interior design, including furniture, finishes, lighting, and other elements.

Key features of 3D renderings in interior design include:

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Realism: 3D renderings aim to simulate real-world environments with high levels of detail and realism. They can accurately depict materials, textures, lighting conditions, and spatial relationships, providing clients with a clear understanding of how the final design will appear.
Visualization: 3D renderings enable clients and stakeholders to visualize the interior design concept from various perspectives, angles, and viewpoints. They offer a comprehensive view of the space, allowing for better comprehension and appreciation of the design proposal.
Design Exploration: Interior designers use 3D renderings as a tool for exploring different design options, layouts, and configurations. By creating multiple renderings with different design elements, colors, and finishes, designers can evaluate and refine the design concept before finalizing the plans.
Communication: 3D renderings facilitate communication and collaboration among designers, clients, architects, and other project stakeholders. They serve as effective visual aids for discussing design ideas, soliciting feedback, and making informed decisions about the project.
Marketing and Presentation: 3D renderings are valuable marketing tools for interior designers and design firms. They can be used in presentations, marketing materials, websites, and social media platforms to showcase the firm's capabilities, attract clients, and promote design projects.

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Overall, 3D renderings play a crucial role in the interior design process by helping to communicate design concepts, validate design decisions, and bring design visions to life in a visually compelling and immersive way.

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List of software for creating 3D visualizations

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ROM Budgets

A rough order of magnitude (ROM) budget and cost analysis in interior design involves assessing the financial aspects of a project to ensure that it stays within budget constraints while meeting the desired design objectives. Here are key components typically included in a budget and cost analysis:

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Project Scope: Define the scope of work, including the size and complexity of the project, the scope of design services required, and any special considerations or client requirements.
Cost Estimates: Provide detailed estimates of the costs associated with various aspects of the project, including design fees, materials, furnishings, fixtures, equipment, labor, permits, taxes, and contingency funds.
Material Costs: Identify and quantify the costs of materials required for the project, such as flooring, wall finishes, cabinetry, countertops, hardware, lighting fixtures, and textiles. Obtain quotes from suppliers and vendors to estimate material costs accurately.
Furniture and Fixture Costs: Determine the costs of furniture, fixtures, and equipment (FF&E) specified for the project, including seating, tables, storage units, accessories, and decorative items. Consider factors such as style, quality, durability, and lead times when estimating FF&E costs.
Labor Costs: Estimate the costs of labor required for various aspects of the project, such as construction, installation, fabrication, painting, electrical work, plumbing, and other specialized services. Factor in labor rates, project duration, and any subcontracting or outsourcing arrangements.
Contingency Funds: Allocate a contingency budget to account for unforeseen expenses, changes in scope, design revisions, delays, and other unexpected circumstances that may arise during the course of the project. The contingency fund helps mitigate risks and ensures that the project remains financially viable.
Profit Margins and Overhead: Incorporate profit margins and overhead costs into the budget to cover the firm's operating expenses, salaries, insurance, overhead costs, and desired profit margins. Profit margins vary depending on the firm's business model, market conditions, and client preferences.
Budget Tracking and Monitoring: Implement systems and processes for tracking and monitoring project expenses, comparing actual costs against budgeted amounts, identifying variances, and implementing cost-saving measures as needed. Regularly update the budget and communicate any changes or deviations to stakeholders.

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By conducting a comprehensive budget and cost analysis, interior designers can establish realistic financial targets, allocate resources effectively, manage project finances efficiently, and deliver value to clients while achieving design excellence within budget constraints.

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An example of a project in Canoa.

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A list of software commonly used for rough order of magnitude (ROM) budget preparation:

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Excel
Canoa
Internal Tools

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Sourcing & Procurement

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Sourcing and procurement in interior design refer to the processes of selecting, acquiring, and purchasing materials, furnishings, fixtures, equipment, and other elements needed to bring a design concept to life. These processes are integral to the successful execution of interior design projects and involve several key activities:

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Material Sourcing: Interior designers identify and source materials such as flooring, wall finishes, cabinetry, countertops, hardware, textiles, lighting fixtures, and decorative elements that align with the design concept, client preferences, and project requirements. Designers may work with suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, and specialty vendors to source materials that meet quality, aesthetic, and budgetary criteria.
Product Selection: Designers research, evaluate, and select products and furnishings that meet the functional, aesthetic, and performance requirements of the project. This involves considering factors such as style, durability, sustainability, maintenance, and cost-effectiveness when selecting products and materials.
Vendor Management: Designers establish relationships with vendors, suppliers, manufacturers, and subcontractors to procure materials and products for the project. They negotiate pricing, terms, and delivery schedules, manage vendor relationships, and coordinate procurement activities to ensure timely delivery and installation of materials and furnishings.
Order Processing: Designers generate purchase orders, contracts, and procurement documents to formalize agreements with vendors and suppliers. They manage the procurement process, track orders, monitor delivery schedules, and coordinate logistics to ensure that materials and products are delivered to the project site on time and within budget.
Quality Control: Designers oversee quality control processes to ensure that materials, furnishings, and products meet specified standards, specifications, and design requirements. They inspect incoming materials, conduct quality assessments, and address any issues or discrepancies to maintain quality and consistency throughout the project.
Cost Management: Designers manage project budgets, monitor expenses, and control costs related to sourcing and procurement activities. They track expenses, compare actual costs against budgeted amounts, identify cost-saving opportunities, and implement strategies to optimize project finances and maximize value for clients.

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Overall, sourcing and procurement play a critical role in the interior design process, enabling designers to acquire the materials, furnishings, and products needed to realize the design vision, meet client expectations, and deliver successful interior design projects. Effective sourcing and procurement practices contribute to project efficiency, cost-effectiveness, quality, and client satisfaction.

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List of software for sourcing & procurement:

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Pinterest
Material Bank
Designer Pages
Spec

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Sustainability Certifications

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Including sustainability certifications in a furniture schedule is crucial for promoting environmentally friendly and socially responsible practices in interior design projects. Sustainability certifications indicate that the furniture items meet specific environmental, social, and ethical standards set by recognized organizations or governing bodies.

Some common sustainability certifications for furniture include:

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Forest Stewardship Council (FSC): FSC certification ensures that wood products come from responsibly managed forests that adhere to strict environmental and social standards, including conservation, community engagement, and worker rights.
Cradle to Cradle (C2C) Certification: C2C certification evaluates products based on their environmental impact throughout their entire lifecycle, from material sourcing to disposal. It considers factors such as material health, recyclability, renewable energy use, and social fairness.
Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS): GOTS certification verifies that textiles and fabrics used in furniture production meet stringent organic and sustainable criteria, including organic farming practices, eco-friendly processing, and fair labor practices.
LEED Certification: While primarily used for building construction, LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification also applies to interior design projects. It evaluates the environmental performance and sustainability features of buildings and interiors based on criteria such as energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and material selection.
Sustainable Furnishings Council (SFC) Certification: SFC certification recognizes companies and products that adhere to sustainable practices in the furniture industry, including responsible sourcing, manufacturing, and business operations.

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Including sustainability certifications in a furniture schedule helps designers and clients make informed choices about the environmental and social impacts of the furniture selected for their projects. It promotes transparency, accountability, and sustainability throughout the supply chain and encourages the adoption of eco-friendly practices in interior design and furniture manufacturing.

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