Cycas might not suit everybody but it's an interesting easy to use cad app with parametric wall and opening tools and there is a free version. It uses Pov-Ray for rendering and exports dxf. Cycas runs on Windows or Linux.
CYCAS architectural CAD software for Linux and Windows
(www.cycas.de)
@unknownuser said:
I feel that no company is interested with 2d, they all go like cannonball to 3D, so they neglect 2D. One example is the impossibility of reaching the centimeter precision with any of them.
Strictly speaking, IMSI Floorplan isn't a cad program, it is a home decor program and not designed for accuracy. Autocad and traditional apps of that level may not be as easy or quick (or cheap) but the basic 2d tools that they still feature (alongside all the other new stuff) are IMHO still hard to beat in terms of flexibility. I do agree though, it does seem that there isn't any new thinking in terms of middleweight 2d, probably this is because the roll out of BIM software such as Revit automates the workflow from 2d to 3d or 3d to 2d.
Maybe we should make some suggestions to the Archimedes - open source cad project team. They are building a free architectural cad app for commercial use. http://archimedes.incubadora.fapesp.br/portal/project/archimedes-project/
Durant,
Your language reminds me of Allen Ginsberg or William Burroughs.
Remus am I right in thinking that area is called the Isles of Avalon because the levels used to flood so the hills looked like islands? The hangover wasn't pleasant, it must have been at least 10 years ago. I was young then, I couldn't cope with Glasto now.
Is that Glastonbury Tor? I was up there once with a very bad hangover after Glastonbury festival contemplating how to get home. Cool model remus.
@unknownuser said:
Its truely pathetic isn't?.....Vista SP1 is supposed to fix the mess it created in the first place.....and then it blocks that obscure, esoteric application that nobody has heard of or uses.....Zone Alarm Security Suite!!!!
No I don't use Zone Alarm, but the fact Sp1 can stop any software working bothers me. I'm generally unlucky.
Try DraftIT Architectural. £99
Cadlogic is a specialist developer of custom CAD software solutions for design-related business operations. Automation, interoperability and ease-of-use.
Cadlogic (www.cadlogic.com)
Free version of this too, but it looks a bit too basic.
I'm beginning to think that there might not be a really efficient, simple 2d cad app out there, I've tried quite a few.
If you are used to the autocad interface try Progecad. I use this, there is a free version called ProgeCAD smart here http://www.progecad.com/compra/index.asp?left=progecad2008smart&lang=eng. If you know autocad, it is the best low cost 2d cad option that I have found. But I'd love to know if there is something better.
I've also used Powercad sitemaster which is really for on site surveys but it is the quickest software I have seen for drawing parametric walls, doors windows etc. It costs £550. http://www.cadshop.co.uk/PowerCAD_SiteMaster_CAD_Software_p/powsitecla3.htm
Jon
You can make your own styles too. 
edit; yes csaba, sorry didn't think of that
Hi
Windows drop down menu - styles - default - 04 shaded with textures or 02 hidden line
I have no intention of installing vista sp1 until plenty of people have done it with no problems. It's taken me the last 7 months to un-vista Vista and get everything how I want it. I've heard that SP1 can render some third party software inoperable, see link. I went through all that when I got Vista in the first place.
Funnily enough Ross, it was concept coverings that I found too. Good point about the fire rating, if the client wants this wallpaper it will have to meet regulations.
Thanks ecofeco, I know exactly how much I need. I have just emailed the design to a UK company that will print for around £65 a metre, this seems like a fair price for a short run.
Ok Lewis, point taken, and I agree, Gimp is not as advanced as Photoshop. In terms of basic day to day functions though it is pretty good.
