How Do I Import a Revit Plan Into SketchUp?

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If you are working with both Autodesk Revit and SketchUp, you may find yourself needing to import a Revit plan into SketchUp for further editing or visualization purposes. While the two software programs have different file formats and functionalities, there are several methods you can use to accomplish this task. In this tutorial, we will explore the various approaches to importing a Revit plan into SketchUp.

Method 1: Exporting as DWG/DXF

The first method involves exporting the Revit plan as a DWG (Drawing) or DXF (Drawing Exchange Format) file, which can then be imported into SketchUp.

  1. Step 1: Open your Revit project and navigate to the view or plan that you want to export.
  2. Step 2: Go to the “File” menu and select “Export” > “CAD Formats” > “DWG” or “DXF”.
  3. Step 3: In the export settings dialog box, specify the desired options such as scale, layers, and geometry settings.
  4. Step 4: Choose a location on your computer and save the exported DWG/DXF file.
  5. Step 5: Open SketchUp and go to the “File” menu. Select “Import” > “DWG/DXF”.
  6. Step 6: Locate and select the exported DWG/DXF file.

    Click on the “Options” button to adjust import settings if needed.

  7. Step 7: Click on the “Import” button to import the Revit plan into SketchUp. You can now edit and work with the imported model in SketchUp.

Note: While this method allows you to import a Revit plan into SketchUp, it’s important to keep in mind that some complex elements or details may not be preserved during the export/import process. It’s recommended to review and adjust the imported model in SketchUp as needed.

Method 2: Using a Plugin

If you prefer a more streamlined workflow, you can utilize a plugin that enables direct import of Revit files into SketchUp. One popular plugin for this purpose is the “Import from Autodesk Revit” extension.

  1. Step 1: Install the “Import from Autodesk Revit” plugin from the SketchUp Extension Warehouse.
  2. Step 2: Open SketchUp and go to the “Extensions” menu. Select “Import from Autodesk Revit”.
  3. Step 3: In the import settings dialog box, choose the desired options such as units, layers, and material settings.
  4. Step 4: Click on the “Browse” button to locate and select your Revit project file (RVT).
  5. Step 5: Click on the “Import” button to import the Revit plan directly into SketchUp.

Note: Using a dedicated plugin can often result in better accuracy and fidelity when importing a Revit plan into SketchUp. However, it’s essential to verify that the plugin is compatible with your version of SketchUp and Revit before proceeding with this method.

Method 3: Exporting as IFC

Another option to import a Revit plan into SketchUp is by exporting it as an IFC (Industry Foundation Classes) file. IFC is an open file format that facilitates interoperability between different BIM software platforms.

  1. Step 1: Open your Revit project and navigate to the desired view or plan.
  2. Step 2: Go to the “File” menu and select “Export” > “IFC”.
  3. Step 3: In the export settings dialog box, specify the desired options such as IFC version, property sets, and geometry settings.
  4. Step 4: Choose a location on your computer and save the exported IFC file. Select “Import” > “IFC”.
  5. Step 6: Locate and select the exported IFC file. Click on the “Options” button to adjust import settings if needed.
  6. Step 7: Click on the “Import” button to import the Revit plan into SketchUp using the IFC format.

Note: Similar to exporting as DWG/DXF, exporting as IFC may not retain all elements or details of your Revit plan when imported into SketchUp. It’s recommended to review and refine the imported model in SketchUp after using this method.

In Conclusion

In this tutorial, we explored three different methods for importing a Revit plan into SketchUp. You can choose between exporting as DWG/DXF, using a dedicated plugin, or exporting as IFC. Each method has its own advantages and limitations, so it’s important to consider your specific requirements and preferences when deciding which approach to use.

Remember that the import process may not always be perfect, and some adjustments might be necessary in SketchUp to achieve the desired result. Take the time to review and refine the imported model to ensure accuracy and compatibility with your SketchUp project.

Now that you have learned how to import a Revit plan into SketchUp, you can seamlessly transfer your designs between these two powerful software programs and continue working on your projects with ease.