6 replies to this topic

[Kenneth Volanti]

Hello,

 

I've used the software a while ago but I'm about to get back into it and start working on designing homes. I was wondering if I can get some direction and opinions on the recommended best order in creating a home. I have pretty much only used AutoCAD to do my home plans in the past but want to start making Softplan my primary software. Do you start on the floor plan first then continue with foundation and roof from there. Or do you start working on the foundation first. Is there good video training that someone would recommend that gives best procedures in Softplan?

 

Also, I would like to learn how to customize Softplan so that my finished drawings will look a specific way. Customize the fonts, dimensions, title blocks, etc.

 

Please help and thank you in advance.

 

Ken

[Chris Robinson]

I have been using SP for many years but mainly as a 2d cad program until last year when I ungraded to SP+.

Your question is a very good one. I have found that is best to start on your main floor plan, then upper floor and last basement. Get all of your floor systems and wall heights in before you do the roof. 

If I have already designed the floor plans, I only draw the perimeter walls or walls that effect the roof until the roof has been done then I go back and add all of the doors, windows and interior walls. That is just the way I do it. I am sure others with much more experience with the current program have better ideas.

 

Good luck.  

[Jon Davis]

I Agree with Chris. This is how I typically approach a new drawing:

 

1. First Floor

    1a. Site plan if required, and MBL's must be followed. Might as well make sure it fits before you draw the rest of the thing...

2. Second Floor/Loft/Bonus (as applicable) This includes floor system.

    2a. Basement goes here, if there's a basement.

3. Roof

4. Elevations.

5. Go through revisions with clients.

Once finalized, or at least really close

6. Electrical if required.

7. Foundation plan last of all. That way, I only have to draw it once, and don't have to make changes to it every time walls are moved on the first floor plan. I also include toilet location, and kitchen sink if it's in the island on this plan. Best to give the plumbers an accurate dimension off the edge of block, as opposed to them having to add it all up across the floor plan to find it.

[David Zawadzki]

In the Help manual, Softplan has a step by step process you can follow.

[Don Gibbons]

SoftPlan also has a 'Watch us draw this house' video in the tutorial videos.

[Steve and Carla Farnam]

Copied from the Softplan Help menu; 

Attached Files

•  Steps in Creating a Residential Plan.pdf   127.8KB   55 downloads

[David Zawadzki]

Copied from the Softplan Help menu; 

What I find interesting is that in 5.5 hours since the pdf was posted by Steve and Carla, 17 people have downloaded the pdf… even though it is in the help manual in the program???