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I have used Home Designer Pro for a new build, but also projects where I have to submit plans for an existing property for extensions and other works. This time I am trying to prepare plans for an old property that needs extensive reconstruction. One of the issues is that the gable walls are leaning close to tipping point. In order to show this on elevations and cross sections, I need the walls to be non vertical. (87deg). Is this possible at all? I'm guessing the software has mainly been developed for new builds, not retro work on old properties. But if this is possible it would be great. thx

@Vikki_WAJust curious, what's not available that your wanting? I haven't used HDP for several years, but I downloaded the trial version and compared it to 2021 and seems like things are about the same with more options. It did start up with Project Managment on and it's a lot different, but it can be turned off and it works like previous versions. I've been using Premier X17 and once I got use to the project management, I really like it. You can't revert to 2023 but give the new version a try and you might like it.

Yep sorry that didn't work out for you. That is one of the bummer features in all the Chief Architect products - lack of backward compatibility. I hope you didn't put too much work into the 2026 versions.

Thank you Keith.

I suggest asking Chief Architect peeps

That portion of exterior wall that blocks the bump-out can be removed. It won't affect the roof. Or, you can add a doorway. I replicated the roof in a 2021 trial version of the software, and it created the same results. So, I don't know why it is not working for you. Check your settings.

That's your only option, yet you could buy it for a year and not renew if you don't need it.

I didn't upgrade because I didn't need new features. I originally upgraded from 20 to 21 because I needed them then. I don't use the product that often. I'm a homeowner, not a professional. Regarding the new version, I don't see any option except for the subscription now. Am I missing something?

I guess that's one of the drawbacks of not updating a 5 year old version at some point. The new version is half price for now, if that's any consolation?

I contacted support. They say they only "support" versions 2022 or newer. Not sure how this is going to work with my designs that have manufacturer catalogs in use. Between that and the new subscription model, I'm regretting all of the money and time that I've put into this software.

You did great! I would be thrilled if I could get it to look that good. So I will try again, but so far I can't get HD Arch 2025 to behave like that. Can you give me any more hints than what you show in the floorplan image? For example I tried the "floor 2 extended" room with ceiling height "0" and it didn't work like yours. Also, how does the extra wall across the bumpout work? Doesn't it block the interior space? And not sure I see why it would change the roof like you showed, but I can give it a try. Thanks again. -Steve

NOPE

Based only on what can be seen in the real pic, This might be the best you can do.

1st, edit the base cabinet to turn the blank panel or drawer panel at the top of the cabinet into an opening that is high enough (low enough?) to accommodate the height of the sink. Make sure there is nothing above that opening such as a blank area or separation. Make sure to remove any countertop edge moldings from that cabinet as well. This method works well for me.

I created a top view outline, see below, I hope that is helpful. The photos were taken from ground level but don't show it very well - we back up onto the woods so I would have to climb a tree to get a good view of it.

I upgraded to HD 2026, then cancelled 2 days later after discovering that features available in my HD Pro 2025 were no longer available in the new version. Unfortunately, I saved a couple of my favorite plans in the new version and now they won't open in the previous version. Has anyone found a way around this other than having to revert to an old archived version?

It was done in HD Architectural 2018. Can you post a real pic of the bump-out roof?

Yes, you have the front correct - awesome! Were you able to make HD Architectural do that? You may have the rear bumpout correct but I can't really see it in your image. I did post elevations above that tried to show the rear bumpout, but here are some closeups in case they help clarify:

It's not available in HD 2026. One of the many disappointing changes in the new version

In the new Home Designer 2026 there is no "properties" panel for any of the Define Material dialogue screens. I was always able to adjust transparency, brightness and emissive level for any material with all previous versions. Can someone please tell me how to find it? If this function is no longer available in the HD 2026 version I'll be getting my money back!

When I export a file (dae) in HD Pro 2021, any glass walls, glass windows and such are not transparent (as designed) ? When I look at the project in HD Pro, the walls and windows are transparent but not as an export. What can I do to fix this issue ? thanks ahead

You need to show what the roof over the bump-out is supposed to look like.

It is still not clear what the front is supposed to look like. Like this?

My last reply took 22 minutes to post?!