Hi
I've started using the trial MOI. So far so good. I like what I've seen and really appreciate that Michael and all of you are very actively involved in the forum.
I'm a retired engineer and I still use some engineering software (Mecway FEA etc). I do like being able to import and export STEP files. I do like something simple to use as well.

The bigger use I have is doing house design - mainly from an interior design perspective on our house. Sometimes, I will be drawing the timber frame, sometimes an exterior view.

Most of the time, its for visualisation purposes so its important to be able to add a texture quickly like brick, wood grain etc. I have some occasional need for a drafting facility.

I've been using Sketchup Make and its been very helpful for this (no drafting or step export tho').

My question is will MOI3D work for me? The main advantage of the sketchup environment is that I can get a quick design of the rooms and use the 3D warehouse to get stl models to place in the house e.g. dishwashers, ovens, sinks, taps etc. I can use the supplied colours and textures to make the place look pretty close to reality without rendering.

Some specific questions:
Can MOI import 3ds and skp files?
Can you add textures to the surfaces easily like sketchup?
Can anyone direct me to examples of house design, interior room design?
What is the easiest way to render?
What is the best way to obtain 2D drawings? Import into Freecad etc?

Note that I don't need much in the way of rendering ( us retiree's are pretty easily pleased and our eyesight is not as sharp...)

I note that a dimensioning tool is hopefully on its way with V4? That'd be nice too.

Cheers and thanks