Do’s and Don’ts of Starting a Custom Home Build
Avoid common mistakes and plan with confidence If you’re thinking of building a custom home, you’ve probably come across conflicting advice about where to start. Should you hire a builder first or work with a designer? Should you get full plans before talking to contractors? Is cost-plus or fixed-price better? I’ve seen these questions come up often online, and the answers can be confusing, especially for first-time builders. Here’s a clear, practical guid, rooted in real-world experience, to help you move forward with confidence and avoid common (and costly) mistakes when planning your custom home. DO: Start With a Realistic Budget Before hiring anyone, you need a clear sense of what homes actually cost to build in your area. Custom homes are not priced the same as production or tract homes. Visit finished homes and ask for cost per square foot ranges. Check recent custom builds on real estate sites for market comparisons. Be sure to include land prep, design fees, engineering, and contingency in your financial planning. “We thought we’d build for $500,000, but by the time we included the site work and everything on our wishlist, the budget had crept toward $800,000.” DON’T: Expect Accurate Pricing Without Plans or Selections Builders can’t price what they don’t know. If you don’t provide a full design and finish selections, they will base their bid on the most affordable materials they typically use, which may not match your expectations. Expect quotes to reflect the lowest-cost options available, like builder-grade tile or laminate counters. Once you upgrade, costs can climb fast. Without defined specs, even a detailed bid can be wildly off base. “We thought we were getting a deal until we saw the fine print. The finishes were nothing close to what we wanted, so every room ended up over budget.” “We made our selections ahead of time, and it gave our builder accurate numbers. Plus, we had time to find discounts on higher-end products.” DON’T: Skip the Contract It may seem like a shortcut to work informally or on good faith, but not having a written contract is one of the riskiest decisions you can make in a custom build. A contract protects both you and your builder. It outlines expectations, payments, deadlines, and how to handle changes or disputes. If something goes wrong, a handshake won’t protect you in court. “We had a great relationship with our builder, but we still signed a detailed contract. When a dispute came up about scope, the contract made it easy to resolve.” “I would never recommend building without a contract. It’s not about trust, it’s about clarity and protection.” DO: Understand Contract Types and Choose What Fits You There are two main ways builders price their services, and each has its pros and cons. Fixed-Price Contract: A set price for the full project Builder carries the risk of price increases Good for predictable budgeting Cost-Plus Contract: You pay the actual construction cost plus a builder’s fee Offers transparency, but can lead to variable totals You carry more financial risk if prices rise or scope expands “We chose cost-plus with a fixed fee so we knew what the builder was earning, and we had flexibility to make decisions along the way.” “Fixed-price gave us peace of mind because we knew exactly what to expect. Our builder had realistic allowances and we stayed within budget.” DON’T: Get Stuck on the Builder’s Profit Margin Some homeowners fixate on how much the builder is making, but margin alone doesn’t tell the whole story. Builders have overhead, liability, and staff to support. A higher margin might come with better service, faster timelines, and experienced crews. Focus on total cost, quality of finishes, and contract terms. “We interviewed a builder who was very open about their fee structure and costs. That transparency built trust and helped us make informed choices.” “Instead of asking how much profit they make, we looked at what we were getting for the money, and the results speak for themselves.” DO: Make Material Selections Early The more product decisions you make before final pricing, the more accurate your bids and timelines will be. Choosing tile, flooring, plumbing, and lighting early helps builders plan accurately. You’ll be able to shop for deals, avoid backorders, and lock in pricing. Selections affect every trade, so deciding early keeps the build running smoothly. “Our designer helped us choose all our finishes before construction, and we ended up saving money by catching some great sales.” “We saw other people stress out about allowances and delays. Planning ahead meant we avoided all of that.” DON’T: Assume the Cheapest Builder Is the Best Deal A low bid might look appealing, but it could come with compromises. Builders may use unrealistic allowances that lead to constant upgrades. They might cut corners to stay profitable or lack experience managing custom builds. If communication is poor early on, expect bigger issues down the line. “The cheapest bid we received left out a ton of things we assumed were included. Once we added those back in, it wasn’t a deal at all.” “Our builder wasn’t the cheapest, but their process was clear and the quality was exceptional. That peace of mind was worth it.” DO: Build the Right Team Ultimately, it’s about people. Whether you work with a builder-led team, a designer, or an architect, success comes from clear communication and mutual respect. Choose professionals who listen, educate, and collaborate. Ask for referrals and visit their past projects. Trust your instincts, but don’t skip due diligence. “We talked to clients who had worked with our builder before. Every single one said they’d do it again, and that gave us confidence.” “A great team doesn’t just build the house, they guide you through every step and protect your investment.” Final Thought There’s no single right way to build a custom home, but there are definitely better ways to plan. Start with clarity. Ask the hard questions. Choose the team that fits your vision and values. With the right guidance, experience, and planning, building your dream home can be an exciting, empowering process, especially when you’re working with someone who understands how to bridge design and construction effectively. Annilee B. Waterman is a nationally Certified Professional Building Designer and Registered Interior Designer with over 25 years of experience helping clients bring their design visions to life with clarity, confidence, and creativity. For homeowners managing their own builds or renovations, Annilee provides the professional guidance, floor plans, 3D visualizations, and technical drawings needed to turn ideas into real, buildable solutions. Her process helps clients avoid costly mistakes, communicate clearly with contractors, and move forward with a solid plan. For architects, designers, and builders, Annilee acts as a trusted partner offering expert 3D modeling, rendering, and drafting support that enhances presentations, streamlines approvals, and helps projects run more smoothly. With a background that includes fine art, film set design, teaching, and architectural visualization, Annilee brings both precision and imagination to every project. She specializes in designing homes that balance timeless architectural style with the realities of modern living, always with an eye toward beauty, function, and buildability. Working entirely remotely, she uses cutting-edge software, virtual reality, and AI-enhanced tools to provide immersive design experiences that allow clients to explore and refine their spaces long before construction begins. Annilee is known for her collaborative approach, clear communication, and dedication to thoughtful, well-crafted design. Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form. Name * FirstLast Email *What Can I Help You With? *Where, generally, are you located? * Are You a Homeowner or Trade Professional? Home Owner Trade Professional Other Submit
Hiring a Designer vs. Architect for Your Custom Home: What You Need to Know
Do You Really Need an Architect for Your Custom Home? Why Hiring a Skilled Designer May Be the Better Fit for Your Project When you set out to design your dream home, one of the first big decisions you’ll face is who to hire: an architect, a designer, or work directly with a design-build team. While architects absolutely have a vital role in the construction world, it’s important to understand that you don’t always need a full architectural service (and the 50-page plan set that often comes with it) to design and build a beautiful, code-compliant, functional home. In fact, for many homeowners — especially DIY-minded clients or those working closely with a trusted builder — hiring an experienced custom home designer can be the perfect solution, offering major advantages in flexibility, efficiency, and cost savings. Here’s why. 1. Not Every Home Requires a Full Architectural Plan Set When people imagine home design, they often picture elaborate architectural blueprints packed with hyper-detailed specifications. However, a basic, well-developed set of home design plans — outlining the design intent and ensuring code compliance — is often more than enough for a skilled builder and their trades to execute beautifully. Good builders, framers, plumbers, electricians, and roofers already know their craft. They make real-time decisions on the job site every day, adapting materials and methods to the site conditions, availability, local codes, and best building practices. You don’t need a 50-page plan set to build a house.You need: A clear design vision Basic code compliance (egress, ceiling heights, lot coverage, etc.) Floor plans, elevations, and basic MEP (mechanical, electrical, plumbing) layouts Beyond that, collaboration with your builder — and starting with thoughtfully prepared house plans for builders — is where the real magic happens. 2. Over-Specification Can Drive Up Construction Costs — Without Adding Real Value One challenge many homeowners face with traditional architecture services is over-specification. Architects sometimes include specifications and structural requirements far exceeding standard building practices or what local conditions actually demand. While this can be appropriate for highly complex or unusual projects, for the average custom home, it often leads to: More expensive quotes from builders More complex permitting processes Confusion over materials and methods Strain on your construction budget, before you even break ground As industry experts have pointed out, many times this “overbuilding” happens because architects need to protect their liability, or because they are removed from the day-to-day realities of the design-build process. (In some cases, compensation structures tied to project costs can create further pressure to over-design.) Meanwhile, a residential designer who works collaboratively with builders focuses on right-sized solutions — balancing beauty, functionality, and practicality without unnecessary overreach. 3. Builders Are Experts in Construction Methods, Local Codes, and Permitting Realities Another key point: Builders and their trades know local codes, site conditions, and best construction practices better than anyone. Good builders: Select the best materials for the region Adapt framing, foundations, and roofing to the specific site Stay current with evolving local code requirements Work regularly with local permit departments and inspectors Navigate the realities of what is actually required for approvals By focusing your home design process around the builder’s expertise — supported by a clear and thoughtful set of permit-ready house plans — you create a more streamlined, realistic, and affordable building process. 4. Working with a Designer Can Save Time, Money, and Headaches A great designer delivers a solid, detailed design foundation — without overcomplicating the path to construction.Hiring a designer instead of a full-service architect often means: Faster design timelines Lower up-front costs More budget flexibility for construction and finishes Better adaptability if changes are needed during the build For many homeowners, especially those interested in DIY home builder plans or flexible custom homes, this approach reduces stress and keeps the focus where it belongs: creating a home that fits your vision, your needs, and your budget. 5. When Do You Need an Architect? Of course, there are situations where hiring a licensed architect is appropriate, such as: Highly complex structures Large-scale commercial or mixed-use projects Projects requiring extensive structural engineering from the outset Jurisdictions that mandate an architect’s stamp for permit approval However, in many areas, custom home plans can be submitted with a stamp from other qualified design professionals, such as a Certified Professional Building Designer (CPBD), or with engineering stamps when required. For most new custom homes, an experienced house designer working alongside your builder and an engineer can meet all code requirements, permitting needs, and construction best practices — without the extra layers of complexity and cost. Final Thoughts Architects bring immense value to the world of design and construction — but hiring an architect isn’t the only path to a successful, beautiful, and buildable home. If you want a creative, thoughtful, and highly functional design that fits your lifestyle — without the weight (and expense) of over-specification — working with a professional custom home designer and a qualified builder can be a smart, efficient choice. By trusting a team that focuses on design intent, builder collaboration, and practical construction realities, you can bring your dream home to life — beautifully, affordably, and without unnecessary complexity. Ready to Start Your Custom Home Design Journey? I’m Annilee B. Waterman, a Certified Professional Building Designer (CPBD) and Registered Interior Designer with over 25 years of experience designing custom homes across a wide range of styles and sizes. I specialize in creating thoughtful, buildable house plans for construction that blend creativity, functionality, and real-world expertise. My approach is collaborative, streamlined, and focused on setting you and your builder up for success. I love working with friendly, down-to-earth people who are excited about creating something special. Whether you’re designing a full custom home, a kitchen or bath, or a vacation getaway, I work closely with you to create a design that fits your needs, your budget, and your vision. If you’re ready to explore designing your custom home with a fresh, practical approach, check out my services to learn more about how I can help bring your dream to life! Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form. Name * FirstLast Email *What Can I Help You With? *Where, generally, are you located? * Are You a Homeowner or Trade Professional? Home Owner Trade Professional Other Submit
Mountain Retreat: Metaverse Showhouse Prototype
Mountain Cabin – The Beginning In 2020, I had my first taste of virtual showhouses when I participated in the Seasonal Living Magazine Virtual Showhouse. I designed the home and built the 3D architectural model and environment. It was created using panoramic images to simulate a 3D environment—a different technology, but it set me on the path to exploring virtual spaces. By 2021, the buzz around the Metaverse was growing, especially after Sandbox Alpha launched, and virtual land sales were making headlines. But here’s the thing—no one in my industry was talking about it. No one was experimenting, no one was building, and no one was even considering the potential of immersive virtual showhouses. I felt like I was venturing into uncharted territory. There was no roadmap, no playbook, and no community to lean on. It was both thrilling and terrifying. But the idea of being a pioneer was too exciting to pass up, even if it meant figuring it all out on my own. I started experimenting with Sandbox’s creator tools and quickly realized that the Metaverse was all about 3D modeling—and that was right up my alley. I then discovered Spatial, a platform for hosting immersive virtual experiences, and I knew I’d found my playground. A virtual showhouse felt like the perfect proof of concept. It was risky, and a little scary, but I was hooked. Building the Mountain Cabin Metaverse Showhouse There was no blueprint, just a lot of trial and error. I spent countless hours figuring out how to optimize 3D models, texturing, and lighting while developing a workflow from my main design software, Chief Architect. I wanted a seamless process from creating buildable plans to exporting multi-platform models. This even led me down the rabbit hole of learning game development in Unity. I was essentially building the plane as I was flying it, testing the limits of digital environments and learning new workflows along the way. Somewhere in this whirlwind of creativity, I got playful and added a “This Space Available for Brand Sponsorship” sign in the virtual showhouse. It was just an experiment, but it sparked some interesting conversations about the commercial possibilities of virtual environments. I didn’t realize it at the time, but this little experiment was about to open some pretty big doors. 2022: Teaching and Gaining Recognition In September 2022, I started teaching my Metaverse Workshops to help designers, architects, and others in the design and construction industry learn about the Metaverse. I used the Mountain Cabin as a virtual tour destination, showing them firsthand what was possible with digital spaces. The response was incredible. People were excited to explore the virtual showhouse, and it sparked great conversations about the future of design. It was during this time that Leslie approached me with the idea of working as my PR agent, pitching virtual showhouses and showrooms to her industry connections. Wanting to gain more exposure, I decided to submit the Mountain Cabin to Interior Design Magazine’s Metaverse Architecture Awards. I didn’t expect much, so when it became a finalist, I was beyond excited. This recognition was a game-changer. It gave me credibility as an innovator in virtual design and showed the industry that digital showhouses could be more than just conceptual ideas—they could be immersive experiences with real-world impact. April 2023: Sparking Interest at Dallas Market Center Around this time, Dallas Market Center (DMC) was considering doing something related to tech education. The buzz around virtual design—and my recognition as a finalist—caught their attention. Leslie, who was working as my PR agent, pitched the idea of a Metaverse showhouse to DMC, using the Mountain Cabin as the proof of concept. She positioned herself as the client liaison and project manager, while my work provided the creative and conceptual groundwork. It was the perfect storm of timing and visibility. The Mountain Cabin had proven that immersive digital spaces could capture attention, and DMC saw the potential to bring that experience to their audience. January 2024: The DMC Metaverse Lighting Trendhouse Fast forward to January 2024, and the DMC Metaverse Lighting Trendhouse was unveiled at Lightovation. Seeing it come to life was surreal. All the workflows, immersive design ideas, and sponsorship concepts I’d experimented with in the Mountain Cabin were now fully realized in a digital showhouse integrated into a major industry event. I could see the Mountain Cabin’s DNA in every part of the Trendhouse. It was the proof of concept that showed just how powerful Metaverse showhouses could be, and it was incredible to see that vision come to life on such a grand stage. Reflecting on the Journey Looking back, I can see how pivotal the Mountain Cabin project was. It started as an experiment—a way for me to learn the ropes of Metaverse design—but it grew into something much bigger. It became a prototype that demonstrated the power of digital environments and eventually led to a groundbreaking collaboration with Dallas Market Center. What I love most about this journey is that it all started with curiosity and a willingness to figure things out as I went along. There was no blueprint, no guarantees, just the excitement of exploring something new. And that’s what makes virtual design so thrilling—it’s about imagining possibilities and then bringing them to life. Looking Forward The Mountain Cabin was just the beginning. There’s still so much to explore in virtual design, and I’m excited about what’s next. From immersive digital experiences to new ways of storytelling, the possibilities are endless. I’m grateful for the journey so far, and I can’t wait to see where this adventure leads next. Who knows what the next experiment will inspire? Curious to Learn More? Want to check out the Mountain Cabin project or learn more about virtual showhouse design? Take a look at my portfolio or reach out—I’d love to chat about the future of digital spaces.
Historic Homes & Buildings
Visualization, Design & Consulting for Historic Places Historic preservation is more than a profession—it’s a dedication to safeguarding the stories and craftsmanship of the past while adapting them for the present. My work focuses on blending historic charm with modern functionality, whether through custom home designs in celebrated historic districts, consulting with property owners to unlock the potential of their historic properties, or crafting visualizations that bring preservation projects to life. I strive to bring history to life in meaningful and innovative ways, honoring architectural heritage while embracing the needs and aspirations of today. Historic Reconstruction Principal Designer: Custom Homes in Fairmount Historic District I have had the privilege of creating custom-designed homes for historic infill in Fort Worth’s Fairmount neighborhood—the largest historic district in the southwestern United States. This area boasts one of the nation’s richest collections of early 20th-century housing, with subdivisions platted between 1883 and 1907. Over the years, I have successfully completed more than 30 projects in Fairmount, all approved by the Texas Historical Commission. This achievement reflects my commitment to preserving the neighborhood’s unique architectural heritage while designing homes that harmonize with its historic charm. Historic Fairmount One of my designs was featured in the prestigious Fairmount Tour of Historic Homes, an annual event that showcases the neighborhood’s architectural heritage. Bringing Historic Neighborhoods to Life: Thoughtful Infill Design Infill properties offer an exciting opportunity to honor the architectural character of historic neighborhoods while addressing the needs of modern families. In my work designing new homes for historic districts like the Fairmount Historic District in Fort Worth, I strive to create homes that seamlessly integrate into their surroundings, preserving the neighborhood’s unique charm and sense of continuity. Each project begins with extensive research into the neighborhood’s history and architecture. I carefully study the design details, materials, and proportions of existing homes to craft new designs that emulate the surrounding architecture. From rooflines and window placements to exterior materials and decorative elements, every aspect of my designs is thoughtfully considered to ensure the new homes complement their historic neighbors. These infill homes are not merely replicas; they are designed to meet the needs of today’s families with modern layouts, energy-efficient features, and updated amenities. By blending timeless architectural elements with functional, livable spaces, I create homes that respect the past while embracing the future. The result is a cohesive neighborhood aesthetic that enhances both the community’s historic identity and its livability. This custom home that I designed was featured in the 2014 Fairmount Tour of Historic Homes. Visualization Artist: Collaborating with Preservation Experts In my role as a rendering artist, I collaborate closely with preservation architects and developers to create detailed visual representations of historic properties. These visualizations assist in planning and executing preservation projects, ensuring that every detail aligns with historical accuracy and aesthetic value. These images are used for presentations, marketing and the approval process for Landmark Commission. Notable Collaberations: Alicia Quintans, AIA, JQAQ Alterier ArchiTexas Proxy Properties, Dallas Ron Siebler, Preservationist Crafting Custom New Home Designs with Historic Charm Beyond historic districts, I specialize in designing custom homes that evoke a historic feel. By integrating traditional architectural elements and materials, I create new residences that honor the timeless beauty of historic architecture while providing modern comfort and efficiency. Consultant: Guiding Historic Property Owners As a consultant, I guide homeowners and business owners through the complexities of owning and working with historic properties. I provide insights into preservation processes, possibilities for adaptive reuse, and compliance with preservation standards, helping clients make informed decisions that respect and enhance the historical significance of their properties. Board Member: Wylie City Council Historic Review Commission My tenure as Vice-Chair of the Wylie City Council Historic Preservation Board provided invaluable insight into preservation policies and the importance of fostering community engagement. This leadership role not only deepened my commitment to protecting architectural heritage but also shaped my approach to collaborating with property owners and municipalities to ensure thoughtful and effective preservation practices. As Vice-Chair, I played an active role in monthly public meetings where citizens presented their building projects for review. I carefully evaluated plans, materials, and architectural details, contributing my expertise to board discussions and offering tailored recommendations to guide these projects. In addition to leading project reviews, I collaborated with city officials to revise and update the city’s historic preservation ordinance, ensuring that the regulations remained relevant and effective in safeguarding Wylie’s historic character. This leadership experience enhanced my ability to balance preservation goals with the practical needs of property owners, fostering solutions that honor the past while supporting the community’s growth and development. Preservation Committee for Historic Stonehaven Stonehaven: Preserving a Historic Texas Landmark The vision for Stonehaven is to transform this historic home into a museum celebrating local Texas history, serve as the headquarters for the Wylie Historical Society, and function as a community center for small events and educational programs. Listed on the Texas Historical Commission’s landmark registry, Stonehaven had been owned by the same family for over a century before the 40-acre property was sold to a developer. To ensure the preservation of this important piece of local heritage, we secured permission from the Landmark Commission to relocate the house to the entrance of the new neighborhood, giving it a prominent and accessible position for the community. As a member of the Wylie Historical Society and the city’s Historical Commission, I worked closely with the developer to guide the relocation and oversee the initial renovation efforts. We enlisted the expertise of H.D. Snow and Son House Moving, Inc., a renowned family-owned business featured on the TV show Texas Flip N Move, to execute the complex move. Once the house was relocated, I collaborated with the developer to select historically accurate paint colors for the exterior, ensuring the structure retained its authentic charm. The developer also secured the building with a new roof, painting, and porch restoration, preparing it for its full rehabilitation. The City of Wylie has since taken over restoration efforts, continuing the work to bring Stonehaven’s vision to life. This project represents a meaningful collaboration between preservation advocates, city officials, and developers, ensuring Stonehaven remains a celebrated part of Wylie’s history for generations to come. Contributing Writer for Circa Old Houses My passion for historic preservation extends beyond design and restoration—into storytelling. I had the privilege of contributing to Circa Old Houses as the author of the Texas Treasures series, where I explored and reviewed vintage and historic homes for sale across Texas. Through these articles, I highlighted the unique architectural details, history, and charm of each property, aiming to inspire readers to appreciate and preserve these timeless treasures. Working directly with Elizabeth Finkelstein, founder of Circa Old Houses, I brought my love of historic homes and storytelling to life in each piece. From Victorian gems to mid-century modern masterpieces, I shared the stories behind these properties, connecting readers with the rich architectural heritage of Texas. This experience not only deepened my understanding of historic homes but also allowed me to connect with a wider audience, fostering a shared appreciation for the beauty and history that these homes represent. Writing for Circa Old Houses remains one of my most rewarding experiences, combining my design expertise with a passion for sharing the stories of our architectural past. https://circaoldhouses.com/category/texas-treasures/ Annilee Waterman is a Certified Professional Building Designer and Registered Interior Designer with over 20 years of experience blending historic charm with modern functionality. She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Texas at Austin and a Bachelor of Science in Interior Design from Texas State University. Annilee’s extensive credentials, including NCIDQ certification and membership in The American Institute of Building Design, reflect her deep commitment to excellence in the field. Specializing in custom home designs for historic districts, Annilee has earned approval from the Texas Historical Commission for more than 30 projects, demonstrating her expertise in architectural preservation. She is also a skilled visualization artist, creating detailed renderings that support preservation efforts and enhance project planning. As a consultant and former Vice-Chair of the Wylie City Council Historic Preservation Board, Annilee guides clients through preservation processes, balancing respect for history with modern needs. With her education, technical expertise, and passion for storytelling, Annilee creates timeless spaces that honor the past while embracing the future. 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Quick Start Guide: Midjourney’s Edit Tool
1. Accessing MidJourney’s Edit Feature Navigate to the Edit Tab: On the main MidJourney website, find the “Edit” tab and select “Edit New Image.” Upload Your Image: Choose to upload either from a URL or directly from your computer. 2. Retexture a Sketch for Enhanced Realism Prepare Your Image: Upload a sketch or initial render, like a 3D screenshot from software such as Chief Architect. Create Your Prompt: Describe the intended result with specific details. For example, “a photo of a French country cottage surrounded by trees with a lush flower garden; stone cottage with slate tile roof.” Submit for Retexture: Switch to the “Retexture” window, and click “Submit Retexture.” MidJourney will provide four retextured options for you to review. 3. Saving and Upscaling Your Selected Image Pick Your Favorite: Select the versions you prefer and send it to “Upscale” for higher resolution. Save to Gallery: Be sure to save your selections to your gallery; otherwise, they may disappear over time. 4. Retexture a Photo for Color Adjustments Upload a Real Estate Photo: For example, a client’s bathroom photo. Modify Details with a Prompt: For instance, “a photo of a vintage bathroom with Sherwin Williams aristocratic peach walls, white ceiling, tile, cabinets, and marble countertop.” Apply and Choose Your Result: MidJourney will generate color options while preserving the overall room layout. Select and upscale the desired outcome. 5. Testing Different Colors for Comparison Re-enter the Edit Panel: Return to the same image, change the paint color in your prompt (e.g., “light lavender”), and submit again. Review Options and Save: Explore various color outcomes, save the preferred versions, and upscale as needed. 6. Using the Edit Tool to Modify Specific Elements Select the Image and Open in Edit Mode: For example, a kitchen rendering. Mask the Area You Want to Change: Use the brush tool to erase specific parts, like light fixtures, adjusting brush size for precision. Enter Your New Prompt: Describe the desired change, such as “kitchen with glass pendant lights,” and click “Submit Edit.” Examine the Options: Review four edited versions with variations in the specified element. Save and upscale the preferred option to your gallery. Annilee B. Waterman is a nationally Certified Professional Building Designer and Registered Interior Designer with over 25 years of experience in the design industry. Specializing in architectural visualizations and cutting-edge technologies, Annilee seamlessly integrates AI and Virtual Reality into her design process and workflow. She sets herself apart by leveraging the latest technology to deliver engaging visualizations, consistently raising the bar for industry standards. Known for her collaborative approach, Annilee works closely with clients and colleagues to ensure every project reaches its full potential. As a seasoned educator and consultant, she empowers design professionals to harness AI tools for innovation in their design processes and business. Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form. Name * FirstLast Email *What Can I Help You With? * Are You a Homeowner or Trade Professional? Home Owner Trade Professional Other Submit
Beyond AI: Why Quality and Artistry Still Matter in Archviz
The Evolution of Rendering Software in Architecture and Interior Design Architecture and interior design experienced a significant shift with the introduction of easy-to-use and on line rendering software. This technology allowed professionals (and non-professionals looking for an “easy” career) to create quick, in-house renders without needing deep technical skills. The ability to generate presentation-ready images with just a few clicks promised speed and convenience, revolutionizing visual creation. However, the limitations soon became apparent—while these tools made rendering accessible, the quality of the results often didn’t meet the demands of high-stakes presentations or discerning clients. The Limitations of DIY Rendering: Quality Over Speed As architects, interior designers and new wave of virtual assistants embraced these new tools, it became clear that producing a render was only half the battle. The real challenge was turning those basic images into something captivating and professional. The issue wasn’t the software itself; it was the lack of expertise in visual storytelling, composition, and design principles. Despite having powerful tools at their disposal, many professionals found that the quality of their presentations still required the trained eye of a seasoned visual artist. AI in Architectural and Interior Design Visualization: A Familiar Pattern Today, a similar trend is emerging with the rise of AI tools in architectural and interior design visualization. AI can certainly generate images, but without the guidance of a skilled artist, these images often lack depth, coherence, and the ability to convey the true potential of a space. The images may be impressive on the surface, but they fall short of capturing the essence and soul of the design. Why AI Isn’t a Magic Bullet for Architecture and Interior Design Just like the early days of rendering software, AI is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It’s a powerful tool, but it remains just that—a tool. The real value in architectural and interior design visualization comes from the art direction, narrative, and design expertise that transforms a render into a compelling visual story. This is where the expertise of skilled architects and designers truly makes a difference. The Irreplaceable Value of Visual Design and Art Direction For professionals in architecture and interior design, it’s important to recognize that the tools you use are only as effective as your ability to use them creatively. Crafting a vision that resonates with clients and captures the full potential of a space is what sets the work of a skilled professional apart from automated AI outputs. Whether creating architectural renders or interior design visuals, the human touch in design is irreplaceable. The Future of Architectural and Interior Design Visualization: Expertise Matters To aspiring 3D artists and designers, the message is clear: continue honing your visual design and art direction skills. These are the areas where your expertise will remain crucial, even as AI and other tools evolve. For those in the industry, whether an architect, designer, or developer, remember that it’s not just about creating an image—it’s about the intention, emotion, and story behind it. Embracing Technology While Upholding Quality in Design As we integrate AI into architecture and interior design, it’s important to remember that quality and creativity still matter. The tools may change, but the importance of a trained eye, thoughtful design, and compelling storytelling remains constant. In the end, it’s the artistry in visualization that transforms spaces, tells stories, and leaves a lasting impact on clients and users alike.