Creating a Linked Architectural Model in Revit 2015

Let's get started. The first thing we're going to do is create our BIM 341 folder on our C: drive. Into this folder, we’ll want to download the BIM Structure Template file. This is important because it will serve as the basis for building our model.

Let’s start by opening Revit 2015. Go to the New tab and select New Project.

Here we have the New Project dialog box, which includes the options “Create New Project” and “Create New Template.” Since we are starting a new project, select Project.

But first, let’s incorporate the template file we downloaded earlier. Click Browse, navigate to your C: drive and open the BIM 341 folder. Select the structure template file and click Open.

You’ll now see it listed in your dialog box. Click OK. It may take a moment to upgrade—don’t worry about this.

Once it finishes loading, you’ll see a blank screen with your template loaded. Now we can get started.

The first thing we want to do is link our architectural model into this project. But first, let’s talk about linking—what is it, and why do we do it?

What is linking? By definition, linking is the act or instance of joining two or more things into one.

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Why do we link models? We link models to create a coordinated view of multiple models from different disciplines. This allows us to incorporate models from architecture, mechanical, plumbing, and other engineering disciplines into our own project. The result is a cohesive, coordinated model that integrates all elements.

For our purposes, the final result will be a linked architectural and structural model that we can build from.

Now, let’s go back to our folder and download the BIM 341 architectural Revit model. This is the file we will use to create our linked model.

Back in Revit 2015, go to the Insert tab and select Link Revit. From your C: drive, choose the architectural Revit model file.

Now we see the file name, file type, and positioning settings. Positioning is important—we’ve found that the best method for inserting another model is Auto—Origin to Origin. This ensures the model is inserted using the internal origin it was created with.

As you can see, the model may not be perfectly centered on your screen, but that’s okay. You can adjust your views and position the model to prepare elevation views as needed.

As discussed earlier, when linking a model, you’re working with the most current information provided by the Architect or other disciplines. Now we want to treat this model as a background reference.

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To do this, type VG to open the Visibility/Graphics Overrides dialog. Go to the Revit Links tab. You’ll see the link is checked, meaning it’s visible. That is its current visibility setting.

I prefer to display the linked model in halftone, so it appears as a background. Next, click Display Settings, and under By Host View, choose Custom.

Set the Detail Level to Fine, and under Discipline, select Architectural. Click Apply, then OK.

Now you have a backgrounded model that you can begin working from.

If you'd like to center your view, press Z X, and the model will zoom to the center of your screen.