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Spotted: What if homeowners had the tools to create their dream house without the need to hire an architect? Design With Frank is a new web app that allows people to do exactly this. 

The new software leverages AI so that anyone can create a home that meets their needs, without it costing a fortune. The process was designed to be as user-friendly as playing the Sims. Just like many of the available online construction games, users are able to manipulate and connect 3D blocks to custom design a house, after which they receive ready-to-build blueprints based on their designs. This, according to Designboom, allows projects to go evolve from an idea to comprehensive architectural plans ready for permitting and construction in only a few weeks.

Chloe Fan and Gabriel Munnich, who developed the tool, have just launched their alpha version of the application with two drawing packages, an initial and a complete construction set. The tool also integrates the creations of other designers that can be incorporated into one’s own project. For example, a design by architect Ben Uyeda was recently integrated. 

Fan and Munnich have not forgotten about sustainability either. Houses designed with “Frank” include solar gain and continuous insulation to minimize heat loss. Moreover, Designboom states that the house blocks are compact to maximize their usage and the built-in cost estimate allows homeowners to foresee how the design and materials used could impact their overall budget. Finally, once the users are happy with their layout, a 3D printed model of the design can be purchased. 

Written By: Katrina Lane

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