How Do I Save SketchUp to Revit?

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Have you ever wondered how to transfer your SketchUp models to Revit? If so, you’re in the right place! In this tutorial, we will guide you through the process of saving your SketchUp files to Revit, step by step.

Step 1: Exporting from SketchUp

To begin, open your SketchUp model that you wish to transfer to Revit. Once your model is open, follow these steps:

  1. Select the desired components or groups within your model that you want to export.
  2. In the top menu, navigate to File, then Export.
  3. Choose the file format as “AutoCAD Drawing (*.dwg)“. This format is compatible with Revit.
  4. Select a location on your computer where you want to save the exported file and give it a name.
  5. Click on the “Export” button to start the exporting process.

Step 2: Importing into Revit

Now that you have exported your SketchUp model as a DWG file, let’s import it into Revit:

  1. Launch Autodesk Revit and open a new or existing project where you want to import the SketchUp design.
  2. In the top menu, go to “Annotate“, then “Cross-Section and Elevation View“. Choose either “Elevation/Exterior Elevation” or “Elevation/Interior Elevation” based on your needs.
  3. Click on the “Import CAD” button located in the ribbon menu.
  4. Browse to the location where you saved your exported DWG file and select it.
  5. Click on “Open” to import the SketchUp model into Revit.
  6. In the “Type Selector“, choose the desired Revit family or component category where you want to place your imported SketchUp design. For example, if it’s a wall, select “wall“.
  7. Select a placement point for your imported model in the Revit project view.
  8. Click on “Create Similar” to create additional instances of your imported design if needed.
  9. Continue adjusting and modifying your imported SketchUp design in Revit as required.

Tips for Successful Transfer:

  • Delete unnecessary geometry: Before exporting from SketchUp, clean up your model by removing any unnecessary components or groups that are not relevant to your final design in Revit. This will help reduce file size and make the transfer process smoother.
  • Avoid complex geometry: While exporting, try to avoid extremely complex or intricate geometry as it may cause performance issues or errors during import into Revit.

    Simplify complex elements whenever possible.

  • Naming conventions: Use clear and descriptive names for components and groups within your SketchUp model. This will make it easier to identify and manage the imported elements in Revit.
  • Coordinate systems: Ensure that both SketchUp and Revit are set to the same coordinate system to avoid any misalignment or scaling issues. Check your settings in both software before exporting and importing.

Conclusion

Transferring your SketchUp models to Revit can be a seamless process if you follow these steps carefully. By exporting your SketchUp designs as DWG files and importing them into Revit, you can take advantage of the powerful features and tools that Revit offers for architectural design and documentation.

Remember to clean up your SketchUp model, simplify complex geometry, use clear naming conventions, and ensure consistent coordinate systems for a successful transfer. Now go ahead and start incorporating your beautifully crafted SketchUp designs into your Revit projects!