When it comes to redecorating a room or office, there is no better aid for the novice interior decorator than a virtual designer. Utilizing modern technology and a standard computer, you can easily see what a room will look like once your design plans and new materials are successfully installed. Many virtual design tools are product specific, allowing you a look at how a particular style of drapes or a new line of flooring will enhance your space.

Before you find a virtual designer, most design programs will require a basic list of room requirements. This will get you started on taking a sneak peek at the area you're looking to make over.

1. Know the specific products you want to install. Identifying the name brands of flooring, cabinets, windows, counter tops or large appliances you wish to use will help the virtual designer give an accurate depiction.

2. Note the color, or at least the color family, of both the finished room in general and the products in particular.

3. Have your measurements ready. Many virtual design programs will ask for the dimensions of the room or product.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Check out free online virtual designer options

When seeking a virtual designer provider, you need look no further than the Internet. There are numerous design programs online that will help you check out your finished space before construction has even started.

I recommend: Design My Room is one of the most popular virtual design programs online today. Not only can you design a room from scratch, but you can also upload your own photos and redesign a room of your choice. Google's SketchUp, a free download, is a widely respected virtual design tool to create rooms and models. You can even turn your designs into movies and presentations.

Find virtual designer tools specific to your product

If you're not reworking an entire room and are just adding a new product or two, there are plenty of appropriate virtual designers out there. These programs will give you an idea of how your space will look with your new addition.

I recommend: Many leading manufacturers of home and office materials feature virtual design tools right on their company website. The interactive room designers at Armstrong Flooring can give you a glimpse of that new floor before it's even been purchased. Deckorators, specializing in decks, railings and balusters, offers the same style of interactive virtual design on its company website.

Seek virtual designer information from the pros

To find virtual designer programs best suited to your space, look to the experts. As the field of virtual design continues to grow and evolve, many industry professionals use some sort of virtual design program to give you an idea of how your room is going to turn out.

I recommend: The design gurus at HGTV have a detailed, user-friendly virtual design program on their website. Interior Design Software, a tool used by many experts, offers a free download of its product as well as a demo that allows you to experience the features of the software. If you need some assistance in your planning, contact the office visuals experts at Black Cherry Design. They provide services that will transform your 2D drawings into vibrant three dimensional images or 360-degree animations.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If you're willing to spend some money to expand your virtual designer list, consider purchasing a downloadable design program. These typically have more options than standard free versions.