Frequently Asked Questions

Is Arcon Evo and 3D Architect Home Designer compatible with MAC?

Our house design software programs have been written for PC’s but that does not mean you will have problems using our software on a MAC. If you are a MAC user and want to run our house design software on it you will need to have either Parallels or Bootcamp and MS Windows installed. If you are a MAC user, we recommend that you request a trial version of 3D Architect or Arcon Evo to ensure that it operates successfully on your MAC before going ahead with purchase. The licencing system allows for up to 2 activations so you do have some flexibility if you also have access to a laptop or Windows based PC.

What happens after I have placed my order?

Once your order for a download version of the software is completed and processed, you will be emailed download instructions together with a serial code to activate your software. You will be up and running in no time.

What if I get stuck during my project?

Arcon Evo & 3D Architect support includes Technical, Installation & Activation support via email plus access to our web based tutorials. We are UK based and aim to respond as soon as possible subject to support request and availability. You can also enjoy our latest comprehensive and interactive PDF guides and video tutorials available under the support section on our website. See Technical Support pages for more information.

How many computers can I install the software on?

When you purchase a single user licence of our software, you will receive unlimited access to the download and an activation key that will allow you to install our software on two computers e.g. home pc and work laptop.

Can the software be installed on multiple computers for others to use?

If you require extra licence(s) for additional users then we have several options available which vary depending on intended use, number of licences required and the version you are running. Please email us at  3darchitect@arcon-cad.de for more details.

Can I produce drawings for planning submission?

Plans amd elevations drawn up in Arcon Evo or 3D Architect Home Designer software are accurate and suitable for submission to your local authority for planning approval. Many of our existing users have achieved this with no previous experience. We recommend referring to your local authority as early as possible to ensure you create plans that meet their requirements.

How are elevation and section views created?

Once you have drawn up your floor plans, elevation views are generated automatically from these. Building sections can be defined and viewed in 2D (3D sections can be viewed in Arcon Evo only). In Arcon Evo there is an advanced mode that allows you to generate and modify individual elevation/section views quickly and easily before entering Plan Layout mode for creating detailed plan sets.

What about building regs and working drawings?

Our software includes a set of drawing and editing tools for fine detailed and working drawings to be created if you have the knowledge. Additionally you can easily import and edit existing CAD blocks (DXF/DWG). Our Building Regs 4 Plans pack is a popular add on product to our home design software that allows you to do this more easily.

Which version of the software is easiest to use?

The 3D Architect Home Designer Basic edition would seem to be the most simple-to-use version being at the low end of our product range! However, all our home designer prroducts including Arcon Evo work in the same way in terms of the basic functionality e.g. drawings walls, placing windows etc. Of course, the more you spend the more features there are so there will be more to learn over time!  Because our software products function in the same way, this makes upgrading easier because you will already be familiar with how the software operates.

I have an old version of Grand Designs 3D software developed by you, is there an upgrade to your new versions?

Yes. For users who own a copy of our popular Grand Designs 3D software we can offer an upgrade discount on any of our home designer products. For an upgrade price, please email your existing order number, serial code and product title you would like to upgrade to. Please email us at 3darchitect@arcon-cad.de

I have an older version of Arcon 3D software, is there an upgrade to your new versions?

Yes. For users who own a copy of our old system we can offer an upgrade discount on any of our home designer products. For an upgrade price, please email your existing order number, serial code and product title you would like to upgrade to. Please email us at 3darchitect@arcon-cad.de

Can I save my building project and send the 3D design to my clients?

Simply save the image file to your computer, attach it to an email message and send it to your client. You can also save your 3D design to o2c (3D) object. This can be emailed to your client where they can view the building in 3D. Using a free o2c player, they are able to interact with the 3D building e.g. zoom, rotate, walkthrough. All they require is an o2c player - see https://www.o2c.de/en.html for more details.

Do your prices include VAT?

For digital products delivered via download, VAT is charged in accordance with EU rules and is charged at your local VAT rate for all countries in the EU Vatable area. Our product pages display prices with VAT included however, if you are buying from outside the UK / EU Vatable area then tax will not be applied to your order and this will be automatically adjusted in the cart.

If I purchase a product, how do I upgrade?

You can upgrade your current version of 3D Architect Home Designer or Arcon Evo at any time.

For an upgrade price, please email your existing order number, serial code and product title you would like to upgrade to. Please email us at 3darchitect@arcon-cad.de