Computers are being used in interior design for space planning, drafting, and modeling. Advances in technology have made it possible to create graphic renderings and animations which enable designers and clients to “walk through” the designed space long before its construction. In kitchen showrooms this technology can be used as a marketing device to generate numerous three-dimensional computer models of complete kitchen setups, each capable of displaying all the possible combinations of styles and finishes available.

The purpose of this study was to test the communication effectiveness of three-dimensional computer-generated models in presenting design ideas and alternatives to a client. Three forms of kitchen design presentations were compared: Line Drawings, an actual Showroom Display, and three-dimensional Computer Model. A sample of 32 residents from the town of Blacksburg, Virginia were shown the three presentations and scored each one for its efficiency of communication of specific design concepts. Their reactions to the use of computer models as presentation media were also obtained. ANOVAs and Chi Square tests were used to analyze the data.

The Showroom Display was the best communicator of space and design ideas and the, Computer Model was most effective in presenting color and finish alternatives. In conclusion, the Computer Models were found to be an effective and acceptable means of kitchen design presentation. Although they cannot replace Showroom Displays, Computer Models can be used effectively and economically as an enhancement to showroom displays and can facilitate reduction of the number of displays required for effective marketing in a showroom.