We’ve been living in our house for almost nine years now, and for the last two, I kept bringing up the idea of a small extension — nothing huge, just enough space to make the kitchen and dining area feel less cramped. My wife liked the idea in theory, but we never quite agreed on what it should look like, how big it should be, or whether it was even worth the hassle.
At some point, I decided to take a more practical approach and started looking for a way to visualize different extension options myself. I didn’t want to sketch on paper or use a free online tool that just gives you cartoon-like boxes. I needed something a bit more serious, but still manageable for someone who doesn’t do this professionally.
That’s when I came across Plan7Architect Pro 5.
Trying Out Different Ideas
I bought the software with one goal in mind: to compare a few extension layouts — side, rear, and a small wraparound — and see what might actually work with the existing structure.
Getting started was easy. I installed it, watched a couple of tutorial videos, and within an hour I had a rough version of our current house drawn. Once the base was there, I started duplicating the layout and experimenting.
One version added a rear extension with a large window front. Another tested a side entrance version with a small mudroom. I even did one with a flat roof and one with a pitched roof — just to see how they’d look.
The 3D View Made All the Difference
What really helped was the 3D view. I could walk through the house and see exactly how the new part would feel — how much light would come in, how the space would connect to the rest of the rooms, and where things like doors and storage could go.
This wasn’t just useful for me — it was the turning point for my wife. I showed her the different versions, and she could instantly see how each one would feel. It stopped being an abstract “maybe someday” thing and started looking like a real possibility.
Her favorite? The version with a glass corner and open kitchen. Mine too, honestly.
More Than Just Drawing Walls
I was surprised by how detailed the planning could get. I was able to:
- adjust wall thickness and roof angles,
- play with different window styles,
- add furniture to test layout flow,
- and even show how the new area would connect to our outdoor space.
It also helped us figure out how the extension would affect light in adjacent rooms. I wouldn’t have thought of that without the 3D simulation.
Exporting Plans for the Next Steps
Once we settled on our preferred layout, I exported the floor plan and a few 3D views. I didn’t need full construction documents — just something to share with a local contractor to get an estimate and see if the structure was feasible.
The PDF exports looked clean and accurate. You can label rooms, add dimensions, and even switch between 2D and 3D views in the printout.
Final Verdict
I didn’t use Plan7Architect to build a house or draw official blueprints — I used it to explore real ideas in a visual, flexible way and make decisions with my partner. And it worked.
It helped me move from vague “what ifs” to concrete proposals. It made the planning process clearer, less stressful, and — surprisingly — even enjoyable.
If you’re thinking about extending your house and want to explore your options properly before spending money on consultations, Plan7Architect is well worth the investment. And if you’re like me and need to convince someone else? A well-made 3D plan speaks louder than words.
