Revit 2024 is here (released April 5, 2023), and Autodesk has focused on reusing and innovating on existing features. This means you can expect a smoother and more efficient workflow. In this article, we will highlight 9 exciting features.
I tested the redesigned user interface, site tools, visual styles, analytical views, and linked models from previous versions in a 2024 project.
Before we get started, let’s take a look at the new Home screen.
The new sample model, Snowdon Towers, is a mixed-use development that includes residential, commercial and retail space.
The model is highly detailed and demonstrates best practices for modeling, documentation, and collaboration. It includes seven linked models, phasing and design options, and a detailed site model created with the enhanced tools from this release.
Now let’s take a look at the new interface and the changes that have been made to some of the tools…
1- Dark Mode
The long-awaited mode is now available and allows you to switch from the default light theme to a dark theme.
To convert your interface:
- Go to the File tab > click Options.
- Go to the Colors panel > change the UI active theme to “Dark”.
Dark mode applies to all primary UI elements, such as ribbons, palettes, dialogs, and main menus. The canvas (viewport background) will also be automatically set to a dark or light color based on your UI selection.
Finally! But not really, because the dark theme does not cover the secondary menus yet. Hopefully this will be fixed in one of the next hotfixes for this release.
2- New Icons
Modernization of most icons and tool symbols in the user interface is another visual change in Revit 2024.
I find that the new icons and the dark mode make the interface a lot clearer and easier to use.
3- TopoSolid
The most significant improvement in Revit 2024 is the new TopoSolid tool, which replaces the old TopoSurface tool. The TopoSolid tool allows you to create site elements that have depth and thickness, unlike the TopoSurface tool, which only created flat surfaces.
The TopoSolid tool works similarly to the floor tool. You first sketch an extrusion boundary with magenta lines, then you can modify the sub-elements by adding points at specific heights to create slopes. You can also import CAD or CSV files to automatically create the shape of the topography.
To create a new toposolid:
- Go to the Massing & Site tab > Model Site panel.
- Drop-down the Toposolid menu > click Create from Sketch.
There are six site solids to choose from in the type selector.
To cut a toposurface, just like a floor:
- Go to the Modify tab > Geometry panel > click Cut.
- Select the toposolid > select the element.
I added a floor, slab edges, and then a section box, which allowed me to create the detailed view below. Nothing overlapped, YES!
You can also change the structure and material of TopoSolids, allowing you to create more complex site elements such as lakes, hills, roads, and more.
I can now use voids or floors to cut site models, which makes it much easier to create section views and have lots of printable details in place.
This is a great addition that eliminates the need to use floors or other workarounds to create site elements.
4- Textures View Style
If you prefer performance over shadows and still want to keep model textures on, you will love the new Textures view style. This view style allows you to view materials with textures without the performance hit of the Realistic view.
The Textures view style is ideal for creating presentation-ready views that showcase your design intent and material choices.
I find it very helpful to be able to create high quality images of my model without having to spend too much time or resources.
5- Placing Multiple Views on A Sheet
We can now insert multiple views on a sheet from the Project Browser. This is a simple but handy feature that can save you time and clicks when creating sheets.
To place multiple views on a sheet:
- In the Project Browser, select multiple views (Shortcut: CTRL + Select).
- Drag and drop the selection to a sheet.
Sheets are automatically arranged in a grid layout based on their size.
6- Import Projects From Older Versions
One of the most requested features is finally here: the ability to link coordination models from different versions.
This feature is very useful when working with other teams or consultants using different versions of Revit. You can also use it to link older models that you don’t want to update into an RVT 2024 file.
It allows us to link IFC files and coordination models from Autodesk Docs or BIM 360. I’d then use the Copy/ Monitor and coordination review tools to synchronize changes between the linked models and my project.
This feature eliminates the need to use third-party tools or workarounds to link models from different versions, reducing the risk of data loss or corruption when upgrading models to newer versions.
7- Search Via Project Browser
A new accessible search bar that makes it easier to quickly find a specific view, sheet, or family in the Project Browser.
No more extra right clicks, which means fewer steps. That’s the way search should be.
8- Energy Models by Elements
If you use Revit’s energy modeling workflow, you will appreciate the new option to generate energy analysis models (EAMs) by view.
Previously, Revit could only create one EAM that included everything in the model with limited filtering options. Now, you can create multiple EAMs based on different 3D views that include only the elements visible in those views.
Note: Linked models are not part of the view.
This gives you more control over what elements are included in your energy analysis and allows you to create EAMs for specific parts of your project, such as additions, renovations, or zones.
9- Improved Sun Settings
You can now see the sun settings and animation controls on the ribbon when you do a solar study.
To change the sun settings, just click the button and you will get the same old dialog box.
Learn more about solar studies
Of course, there are many more features and improvements in Revit 2024 that I didn’t cover here, such as Dynamo 2.17, new MEP and Structure tools, performance improvements, and bug fixes. You can read the official Autodesk blog post for more details.
As a BIM professional and long-time user, I think Revit 2024 is a solid release that offers many benefits to the AEC industry. I also think it reflects Autodesk’s late, but strong commitment to following roadmaps and listening to user feedback.
Mohamed Fakhry has helped thousands of architects and designers find their next project with step-by-step guidance on his blog, mashyo.com. About Mohamed
His journey began during his university years when he recognized the need for information-rich 3D models to accelerate learning and improve production processes. Now, Mohamed shares his expertise through Revit tutorials that are accessible to all.
