Grand Designs 3D Will Allow Consumers To Design Their Own Dream

A 3D visualisation software developer, Eleco and FremantleMedia Enterprises (FME) have announced plans to partner on the production of a range of home design software under the talkbackTHAMES produced Grand Designs brand which will enable amateur design enthusiasts to create and visualise their own Grand Designs projects.
The Grand Designs 3D product range, including Self Build & Development, Kitchen and Bathroom and Renovation and Interior packages, will be launched at Grand Designs Live on October 10, 2008.
Grand Designs 3D is based on 'ARCON', Eleco's leading 3D design software. With input from FME's UK licensing team and the talkbackTHAMES production team, Grand Designs 3D contains the quality and maintains the credentials of the two brands to create a unique product offering.
Grand Designs 3D will allow the user to quickly, easily and accurately design the exterior, interior and garden of their dream home.
Initially, there will be three software packages in the product range catering for projects of a variety of sizes and budgets; from simple remodelling of existing properties to complete self-build projects.
The product output can also be used by homeowners to apply for outline planning permission.
2D drawing tools will initially allow the user to bring to life ideas before visualising them in a 3D environment. A database of fixtures and fittings allows each project to be furnised and decorated with rendered images demonstrating the effects of texturing, lighting and even shadows.
Finally, the 3D walk through feature allows each project to be examined in close-up detail and provides a genuine impression of moving around the furnished home or room. Adaptations can be easily implemented; altering both small and large details at will until the users own Grand Design is completed.
Dan Naylor, Chief Executive Officer of Eleco Visualisation Software, commented: "Eleco has a strong reputation as a provider of home design software across the UK and Europe; it is a perfect match to work alongside Grand Designs to attract a wider consumer audience to engage with the design process of their living space.
"We feel our product is launching at an ideal time in a market where homeowners are increasingly looking to improve their existing property rather than move on.
"We hope that our software allows increasing numbers of consumers to visualise their ideas and perhaps even start their own Grand Design."
Dominic Burns, FME Senior Vice President Licensing UK, added: "We are delighted to be partnering with Eleco on this cutting edge software that will give users a keener understanding of the skills required to take on a Grand Design.
"The TV series actively encourages Grand Designs to work with the correct experts on their projects, be it architects or designers and this type of product will enable them to speak the same language."
Further information is available at: www.fremantlemedia.com and www.eleco.com.
(KMcA)