Looking for advice

[DH7777]

Hello everyone,

I’ve decided to finally develop a conceptual home design I originally started about 37 years ago, when I was 19, into a fully completed set of plans. I call the project “The Majestic.”

I’ve attached elevation snapshots along with the main floor layout so you can understand the general footprint. I have all the levels, but for what I am seeking here, the main floor gives you the shape of the home. I also included an AI-generated elevation showing the overall architectural direction I expect the design to take.

I’m specifically looking for guidance on how you would approach starting this project in Chief Architect.

I plan to make significant interior revisions — potentially adjusting ceiling heights on all levels, modifying the diameters of the central rotunda and turrets, and incorporating elements such as retaining walls and other structural changes. I’m comfortable using Chief Architect, but I’ve avoided this project for a while because of the complexity: circular walls, domed roofs, and intersecting geometry. I’ll admit it’s a bit intimidating to figure out the most efficient starting workflow.

Below are a few specific areas where I would appreciate direction:

 

• Do I start on the main floor, then insert a floor below for the garage basement level?
• How do I build the glass-arched halls leading from the central rotunda to the turrets?
• How do I open up the back section of the main domed roof for the open roof terrace? (In the 2d drawing, rear elevation, you see a black railing. The top of that railing will be approximately 36-40in off the floor up there. A section of the roof will be removed to open up this feature. (I got all the drainage worked out)  

 

I’m sure I’ll have more questions as this progresses. This home is going to have some very dramatic interior elements. I do not plan to change the main-floor entry layout.

When you walk in, the ceiling will be a flat ceiling that extends two stories high, forming the underside of the third floor (the master bedroom located beneath the dome). Immediately upon entering, your eyes will be drawn to a grand staircase that splits into two directions at the first landing and leads up to a large second-floor loft area.

Behind that staircase will be a massive circular column containing an elevator, providing access to the basement, second floor, and third-floor master suite.

In addition, from the loft level there will be another staircase that continues up to the master bedroom. This stair wraps around the exterior of the large elevator column.

It’s definitely unconventional, but I think it will create a major “wow” moment when you enter the home. This is very much a “money is no object” project — realistically a multi-million-dollar build. For now, I mainly want to finish modeling it and push my skills in Chief Architect whenever I have free time.

 

Any advice from the props would be highly appreciated! Thanks