July 13, 2021

Chief Architect Software has released a new version of its architectural 3D home design software, Chief Architect X13. The software offers powerful new features including real-time ray trace rendering that produces photo realistic results in less than 30 seconds.

Chief Architect X13 select new features include:

• 3D Walkthroughs have a new preview panel, so you can see and interact with the walkthrough before recording
• A new clay 3D rendering technique for abstract style views is available
• Advanced Framing features for horizontal framing, balloon walls, header placement, and corner framing control
• Construction Lines — create a column grid with callouts to reference between floors and elevations
• Cabinets have options for extended stiles, face frame overlap control, and face items can be dimensioned, including cabinet openings.

“In our newest version of Chief Architect, we spent a lot of time on 3D rendering – improving the speed, quality, and overall performance,” said Scott Harris, vice president sales and marketing. “While you’ve been able to generate immediate 3D renders for the past several years, you can now achieve photo quality renders in seconds – previously, that may have taken hours.

“In addition to 3D improvements, there’s been a lot of development in the area of framing, construction line grids, and detailed cabinet editing. All of these improvements are aimed at helping designers produce construction documents much more efficiently.”