12 Things You Can Do in SketchUp (That Every Interior Designer Should Know)

SketchUp isn’t just another design tool—it’s a game-changer. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting your interior design journey, SketchUp offers endless possibilities to transform your ideas into visually stunning and functional designs.

Ready to see what’s possible? Let’s dive into 12 ways SketchUp can revolutionize your workflow.

1. Space Planning and Floor Plans

SketchUp helps you get your space just right—whether you’re working on a small apartment or a sprawling office. You can lay out walls, doors, and furniture with precision, so you’re always on top of your design. And since it’s all in 3D, you get a visual reference for every single detail. You’ll be saving time and eliminating guesswork!

2. 3D Modeling

Ready to bring your designs to life in 3D? SketchUp makes it easy to model everything from a simple drawer pull to a full-scale office space. Whether you're brainstorming ideas, refining concepts, or diving into construction details, SketchUp gives you the flexibility to model everything—and see it from every angle.

3. Create Stunning Renderings

Want to make your designs pop? SketchUp’s renderings can give your models that "wow" factor. Whether you’re aiming for a hand-drawn, sketchy look or a clean, realistic render, you have total control over how your design looks.

SketchUp model by Solstice Interiors

4. Diverse Styles

It’s not just about the model; it’s about the style. SketchUp lets you choose between hand-drawn sketches or sleek, hard-line renders. Want a little more artistic flair? Go for that sketchy look. Need something clean and professional? Hard lines it is. It’s all about the vibe you want to create.

5. Elevations and Sections

SketchUp helps you create detailed elevations and sections in a snap. These views are a must-have for construction docs and client presentations, and with just a click, you can generate them directly from your 3D model. So much easier than starting from scratch, right?

6. Section Perspectives

Sometimes you need a cross-section to show your design’s inner workings. SketchUp’s section perspectives let you cut away parts of your model, giving you a detailed look at everything from ceiling heights to wall thickness.

7. Custom Joinery Drawings

Got custom built-ins? SketchUp lets you model everything from bespoke cabinets to funky bookshelves with ease. You can even export these models for precise drawings or construction-ready details.

8. Exterior Design

SketchUp isn’t just for interiors—it's perfect for exterior designs, too! From landscaping to façades to outdoor spaces, you can use SketchUp’s 3D modeling tools to design every angle of your project.

9. Material and Texture Library

SketchUp makes it easy to apply realistic textures and materials. Use their built-in library or upload your own to bring your design to life with true-to-life details. No more guessing how a tile will look or how a fabric will drape. You get the real deal.

10. Import and Export Various File Formats

Collaboration made easy. You can import and export files in a variety of formats, like .dwg, .jpg, and .skp. Whether you’re working with colleagues or clients, SketchUp makes sharing and collaborating a breeze.

11. Export to a Realistic Renderer

Want to take your visuals to the next level? SketchUp lets you export your models to professional rendering software, like V-Ray or Lumion. The result? Ultra-realistic images.

12. The 3D Warehouse

If you’re looking to speed up your process, the 3D Warehouse is your best friend. It’s a huge online library of pre-made models that you can instantly add to your design—whether you need a lamp, a tree, or an entire sofa.

13. Layout and Documentation

Need to put together presentation-ready docs? SketchUp Layout helps you create everything from construction drawings to 2D plans—quickly and easily. You can export it all as PDFs, images, or whatever format works best for you and your clients.

Want to Master SketchUp and Design Like a Pro?

You’ve seen all the awesome things you can do in SketchUp, and trust me, there’s so much more to learn! If you’re ready to level up your SketchUp skills, I’ve got something for you.

👉 Sign up for my free webinar to dive deeper into how you can streamline your design process, boost your confidence, and create designs that stand out. Let’s get you mastering SketchUp—faster and easier than you ever thought possible!