Architectural Designs

Can someone recommend a good Architectural software program for a novice to play around with?

I thought I'd try designing a few things for fun (not professionally), but I've never attempted it before. Is there a program which isn't too complicated, but allows me to develop my skills? Please, tell me about one ONLY if you have used it yourself. I don't need any sales pitches.

Public Comments

1. There are hundreds of Architecture programs out there, but I would recommend the Better Homes & Gardens series for someone that wants to just do it for fun. Mostly since they are really user friendly. not that expensive, they work really well have a lot of features, tons of support options on the main homepage and they are powered by the same engine as the Chief Architect series which is renown for its usability and professionalism. The prices range from $59 US for a basic home designer software up to 495 for a more detailed and more powerful design program. If you have the money to waste (since your only doing it for fun) you can go for the Chief series the most current is C.A. X3 which has tons of features and is easy to learn, with massive amounts of support and user forum information, the downside is the cost at around US$2000 a copy it is a major investment in software. You can PM me if you want to know more.
2. By far the easiest and most intuitive is Google Sketch Up, and it is free and easily downloaded from their site. There is a massive following and support community, with hundreds of video tutorials walking you through every feature. Perfect for basic architectural and visually representative purposes. Don't expect a builder to run with your plans however, as that is not what it is supposed to do (Google have had to tread a fine line with other CAD software that charge $$$). Give it a shot, you have nothing to lose.
3. Not knowing where your learning curve is. I can only assume you have not worked with a CAD program. Also not knowing exactly what your planning on working on. There are free programs to get your feet wet. I would start off with a basic program like Project Dragonfly http://www.homestyler.com/designer before attempting a more robust program like Google sketch up where you need to understand the principals of design- also a free version. The link I posted will help you get used to 2 and 3d rendering and placement it's very intuitive. Your next step up would be Design workshop lite http://www.artifice.com/free/dw_lite.html before google sketch up. These programs mentioned are all free...I have used the Better homes and garden suite also and find the elevation to be cumbersome. Go forth design and enjoy!!!