solver

ChiefTalk is the forum for Chief Architect users. Repost over there for the best help. The short answer is, you may define any wall (within reason) and use it as needed.

See http://www.cast-db.com/archCalc/ for a $20 construction calculator. Windows and Mac. For making a program always on top (windows only) http://www.savardsoftware.com/turbotop and http://www.savardsoftware.com/launchontop.

Build > Floor > Delete Current Floor

Those columns are from the library, but it's easy to make your own using the slab tool, soffits etc. I believe there is a bonus library that has columns as well.

Draw 4 walls. Set them to invisible. You may then add columns as you like.

Here is how it usually works for me. Call from homeowner (HO) to come look at a project. At initial visit, sometimes the HO has a hand drawn plan, most times , they do not. We discuss the project and after lots of pointing and gesturing, and questions, I have a rough plan drawn. I get an OK from the HO, usually ask them to decide on a few things, then leave to create a 3D model using home designer. Second visit I display the model, and we continue the discussion. More back and fourth, more pointing and a few changes, and I have a complete model. Sometimes there are more meetings. ------ For most builders around here, there is no computer model, only a 2D floor plan on paper that the builder creates. You will eliminate all the confusion and pointing and most questions, because you have built the model, providing a plan and 3D views, but the builder will still make his own construction drawings that conform to local codes and practices. He will take his own measurements etc, because it's up to him to do the building and make it all correct. You are providing the vision, the builder makes it reality.

On the roof, I used the manual roof tools in Pro, but you should be able to do the same thing in Architectural by changing the roof pitch on the addition, and adding an invisible wall. You would need Pro 2015 to read my modified file. In general, a builder does not expect a homeowner to supply drawings, especially construction drawings. I would print what you have, including Doll House views, just so you are both on the same page. Are you doing this remotely, or will you be on site to meet with the builder?

After looking at your plans, I'd just show them to a couple of contractors. Most of the good old boys around here are still using pencil and paper for this size project. Project is simple, and like Mick said above, you will need a good idea of finishes and how you want things to look. You will find some good builders, but most shy away from design. I've attached an image showing an alternate roof for the addition. Nothing at all wrong with your's, just an idea.

Fred -- I'm 50 miles east in Overgaard and do this type of work. No need for engineering for a simple foundation -- slab on grade or post on footings. Local builders will take your plans and produce construction drawings for permitting. No one here except me uses computer generated drawings for permitting, Payson may be different. I'd look at your drawings more as a way to communicate with the builder than something someone will build from. If you will attach your plan to a post, I'll be happy to take a look, and I know Mick will too. I know the owner of the local lumber yard and could ask for recommendations on a builder if you would like.

The Library search is not very good. It often brings up a subset of what is available because of the way things are named. If you find something, you may right click on it, then Show in Browser which takes you to the area of the catalog where other similar things may be found.

then rebuild the 3D

I just tried it and only get the solid wood fill, no studs. Looks like a limitation of the software.

Works fine here. If no one offers any suggestions, try support on Monday.

Post the plan and I'll give it a try. I just checked again, and it works fine here.

Go to Build>Framing Then

3 walls may make a room, 2 curved walls may make a room, but one wall in the shape of a complete circle does not seem to.

I'll ask again. >>> it changed to rectangular. I don't understand this. Could you post a couple of screen captures showing the problem? Describe the steps you are taking.

If you have unchecked Ceiling Over This Room, then what you are looking at is the underside of the roof. If Suite has Ceiling Planes, you can use them to draw in the ceiling you want. Or change the roof so that it produces the ceiling you are after.

I should have looked at the plan. I've made comments on Houzz where I post as PPF. Could you be more specific about what is wrong?

Take a look at the attached image and notice how odd some of the numbers seem. The first is Standard Area, the second is Interior Area. Here is a KB article that might help. http://www.homedesignersoftware.com/support/article/KB-00552/

Use a FULL CAMERA instead of a FLOOR CAMERA. What does a Full Overview (exterior) look like?

>>> it changed to rectangular. I don't understand this. Could you post a couple of screen captures showing the problem?

Post the plan. Best way to get help on this type of issue.

I would go through the process of downloading again. If no one else has a solution, call support Monday.

The traditional way of modeling this type of plan is to have the house and garage on the same floor, then set the garage floor to a negative height to lower it. As for the deck, make sure you are on level 2 when drawing it.