Preparing Revit Files for SketchUp

Taking a few minutes to set up your Revit file before opening the Revit Importer helps prevent unexpected results, such as missing texture or unwanted geometry. 

The Revit Importer doesn’t scan the entire project, just the visible elements of the selected view. That means if an element is hidden by a Phase Filter, or you’ve set up other visibility controls, it will not appear in SketchUp. Follow these steps to help you set up your model in Revit before importing it into SketchUp:

1. Create a Dedicated Export View – The default view in Revit may contain design overrides that could cause miscoordination in your imported file. Instead, create a named 3D view specifically for your SketchUp export.

2. Configure Phase Filters – Phase filters in Revit control element visibility based on construction status and can be an important part of the import process. The importer respects the filter active on your 3D view when you import the file. Make sure the Phase Filter is set to exclude demolished elements. For more details, see Phases in the Revit Importer.

3. Review Visibility and Graphics – The Revit Importer respects the Visibility and Graphics settings in Revit. Make sure all required categories are checked along with any hidden items you want to include.

4. Manage Linked Files and Textures – Verify all linked geometry has a Loaded status in Revit’s Manage Links dialog.  If any materials reference external image files, copy those image files into the same folder as the file you want to import before you begin.

5. Save Your File – The Revit Importer imports the saved file, not your active Revit session. Make sure you save your file after making any adjustments so SketchUp can see your changes.

Known Limitations

Revit scope boxes and camera views aren’t supported with the Revit Importer, which won’t recognize those settings. That means if you import a view restricted by a section box or a camera point, SketchUp still displays the elements hidden in the original Revit view.