Abstract: A system for designing a room using a browser connected to a system remote to the browser. The perspective view of the room is displayed. Specification is accepted of furnishings to be added to the room. Simplified images of the furnishings are displayed in the perspective view of the room. Manipulation of the simplified images of the furnishings is accepted and displayed. The room is rendered with substantially photorealistic perspective images of the furnishings in the perspective view of the room. The substantially photorealistic perspective images of the furnishings are obtained from the remote system, and the room is rendered in accordance with the manipulation of the simplified images so as to present corresponding perspective views of the furnishings. Preferably, specification of properties for the furnishings also are accepted and displayed.