Unlocking the Power of Chief Architect X17: Smarter Tools, Faster Workflows, Better Designs
Chief Architect X17 is more than just a software update—it’s a strategic upgrade for residential designers, home builders, and remodeling professionals who want to work smarter, faster, and with greater precision. From improved project management and intelligent scheduling to streamlined walkthrough creation and smarter terrain tools, X17 delivers features that are built with real-world design challenges in mind.
Watch the full episode of the Designers Show to see these features demonstrated in real time and learn how top users are implementing them in real-world projects.
One of the most impactful enhancements in X17 is the revamped Project Browser. It now offers seamless organization of layouts, CAD details, schedules, and templates within a unified project structure. This improvement allows you to keep all related files together, reducing the risk of duplication or versioning errors. Whether you're juggling multiple revisions or collaborating across teams, the updated browser gives you clarity and control over your project assets.
In addition to better file management, Chief Architect X17 introduces a powerful update to its walkthrough tool. With a simple path-drawing interface and intuitive keyframe controls, you can quickly produce high-quality virtual tours. Enhanced with DLSS-enabled real-time rendering (available on Windows systems with NVIDIA RTX cards), walkthroughs now render faster while maintaining impressive visual quality—perfect for sharing project progress with clients or showcasing design concepts.
Precision is also enhanced with custom temporary dimensions. Unlike previous versions where you were limited to a single default setting, X17 allows you to assign specific dimension styles to different saved plan views. This means you can toggle between framing dimensions, surface measurements, or opening centers, depending on the context—streamlining your workflow and ensuring greater accuracy.
Another noteworthy addition is the new terrain reference point tool. This feature helps you align terrain elevation with the finished floor or sea level—a critical requirement for many permitting processes. Combined with the ability to use macros, it’s now easier than ever to display elevation labels directly on your drawings, saving time and boosting documentation clarity.
When it comes to schedules and layouts, X17 gives you even more control. You can:
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Place the same schedule on multiple layout pages without triggering double callouts.
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Save commonly used schedules in your library for quick reuse.
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Organize CAD details into clearly labeled folders within the Project Browser.
These enhancements help maintain clean, professional documentation while improving reusability across projects.
For those who like to personalize their design environment, X17 also introduces custom toolbar icons. You can assign your own graphics—like company logos, room icons, or functional symbols—to different toolsets. This makes toolbars easier to navigate and tailored to your specific workflow needs.
Altogether, Chief Architect X17 delivers practical improvements that directly support your business: better organization, faster visualization, more accurate documentation, and greater customization. Whether you’re managing full-scale custom builds or detailed renovations, these features allow you to operate with greater speed and confidence.
Looking to take your design skills to the next level? The Chief Experts Pro Academy offers hands-on training, live sessions, and expert guidance to help you master X17 and grow your design business with clarity and confidence.
