So, you’re ready to give your living room a fresh look or maybe set up a cozy space for the first time. There’s a lot to think about: the right furniture, colors that work, and a layout that makes the room feel just right. It can all seem like a never-ending project. But guess what? There’s an app for that! Actually, there are quite a few, and they’re here to make designing your living room a whole lot easier.
These design apps let you dive into the world of interior decor and experiment with different layouts and furniture directly from home. You can even get a feel for what it’s like to have unique design pieces, like an Edra on the rocks, right in your own living room. Here’s a roundup of the best design apps to help bring your vision to life.
1. Houzz: Your Design Inspiration Hub
Available on: iOS, Android
Cost: Free, with in-app purchases
Languages: Available in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, French, and German
Houzz is a classic in the interior design world, and with good reason. With an extensive database of design photos, furniture items, and real-world project examples, Houzz helps you visualize different styles and get a solid idea of what works best in your space. The app even includes a 3D “View in My Room” feature that lets you see how specific items—like a plush Flexform Feel Good Sofa or that dream Maxalto Lithos Grey Oak Small Table —would look in your actual living room.
Pros:
- Huge library of design inspiration
- The 3D feature lets you “place” furniture in your room using AR
- Shopping feature to buy directly from the app
Cons:
- Not specifically a layout tool, so it’s more focused on style inspiration
- Some users report minor bugs with the AR feature
Verdict: Houzz is ideal if you’re still brainstorming and want to explore different styles. It’s a powerful tool for anyone looking to visualize trends and piece together a cohesive look.
2. Planner 5D: For Those Who Want Full Control Over the Layout
Available on: iOS, Android, Windows, Web
Cost: Free, with premium features available for a fee
Languages: Over 10 languages, including English, Italian, and Portuguese
Planner 5D is perfect for those who want more than just a mood board, that you can easily find on Pinterest. This app allows you to create detailed, customizable floor plans in both 2D and 3D, giving you a bird’s-eye view of your space. You can experiment with different layouts, add furniture, and even tweak details like wall colors and textures. Were you wondering if your On the Rocks Sofa in red fabric would look good with the dark parquet in your living room? With this app you can find out in just a few steps!
Pros:
- Full layout customization with detailed 2D and 3D views
- VR mode for a more immersive experience
- Large catalog of furniture and decor items
Cons:
- Steeper learning curve if you’re new to designing software
- Some features are locked behind a paywall, but the free version is still powerful
Verdict: If you’re a hands-on person who wants to map out every corner of your living room, Planner 5D is the app for you. It’s detailed and flexible, perfect for those willing to put in a bit of time to get a highly personalized result.
3. MagicPlan: Perfect for Accurate Measurements
Available on: iOS, Android
Cost: Free for basic use, premium version with more features
Languages: Available in English, Spanish, French, and several other languages
MagicPlan is fantastic for getting accurate room measurements and layouts, thanks to its augmented reality measuring tool. This app lets you scan your room with your phone to create an accurate floor plan with dimensions. You can then add furniture and fixtures, making it easier to plan your living room’s layout without manually measuring every inch. It’s a huge time-saver if you’re working in a space with odd angles or challenging dimensions. Directly from your mobile phone, you can see the effect that the Henge Starlight Suspension Lamp will have on your Cassina Kangaroo Oak Stained Dark Walnut Armchair set!
Pros:
- AR tool for precise room measurements
- Works well for both simple and complex room shapes
- Lets you create floor plans quickly
Cons:
- Not as visually oriented as other design apps—better for layout than decor
- The free version is limited in terms of features
Verdict: MagicPlan is best for those who need a precise floor plan and want to experiment with layouts. It’s especially helpful if you’re working in a tricky space and need to ensure everything fits just right.
With the help of these apps, designing or redesigning your living room has never been easier. Each app brings something different to the table, so whether you’re mapping out your space, browsing for design inspiration, or checking if a specific piece of furniture will fit, there’s an option tailored to your needs.
If interior design apps aren’t enough, you can always turn to a team of interior designers and architects online. Some luxury furniture retailers, such as Tomassini.com, offer free consultations in several languages to help you design the home you want. Don’t be afraid to transform your interior, with these online tools you can start the makeover today.