Depends on what stage you are at! Our architect presented us with a physical model along with a floor plan, right at the beginning of our design process. Without it, we would certainly have struggled to visualise the entire concept, and it definately cemented our faith early in the design. In the 4 months since, he has provided 2D renders of areas we've made minor changes to, and we are now waiting to view the 3D digital render, in order to layer & dress. He is also constructing a final physical model for us. We have an awesome architect!

Like the plans but I personally think, after living in small houses in NZ myself, having the second bedroom separated from the first (at least by the bathroom area) is a better option than 3 bedrooms. You could incorporate an office and entertainment area into the living space instead of adding a 3rd bedroom, or a washer and dryer in a cupboard or into the kitchen as many Europen houses do. Clever storage and multifunctional ideas, e.g. under bed storage, storage under built-in seating that can double as an extra bed, may be much better options than squeezing in a 3rd bedroom. I cannot stress enough how a feeling of space in your open plan living / dining / kitchen area is so important when you cannot utilise the outdoors in winter or inclement weather.

I have tried floor planner but then had a go with Sweet Home 3D and loved it so much I ended up buying it. The difference is that with Sweet Home 3D you see the 3D render straight away on a split screen down the bottom. Very easy to use.

I've read about Modular Homes, I love the concept - I had no idea that they would be so aesthetically pleasing though!