Site Analysis Workflow in Revit: From ArchiKEK to BIM

Revit and Site Context

Revit excels at building modeling but often lacks easy site context tools. ArchiKEK fills this gap by providing quick context maps that you can reference in your BIM workflow.

Import Methods

Method 1: Linked CAD (Recommended)

Best for context that won't change:

• Export DXF from ArchiKEK
• In Revit: Insert → Link CAD
• Choose your .dxf file
• Set positioning:
• Origin to Origin (if georeferenced)
• Or manual placement
• Link appears in your view

Benefits:

• File stays external (smaller Revit file)
• Easy to update (relink)
• Layers become Revit subcategories

Method 2: Import CAD

For geometry you'll trace over:

• Insert → Import CAD
• Select .dxf file
• Check "Current view only" if not needed in 3D
• Explode if needed for tracing

Method 3: Image Reference

Quick and simple for early design:

• Export PNG from ArchiKEK (screenshot)
• Insert → Image
• Scale to match (use known dimension)

Working with Imported Context

Visibility Control

Manage imported layers:

• Visibility/Graphics (VG)
• Imported Categories tab
• Expand your linked file
• Toggle individual layers

Scaling Verification

ArchiKEK exports are in meters. In Revit:

• Use Measure tool
• Check known distance (street width, etc.)
• If off, delete and re-import with correct units

Tracing Context Buildings

For buildings you want as Revit masses:

• Create In-Place Mass
• Trace footprint using Pick Lines
• Extrude to approximate height
• Use for shadow/view studies

Site Analysis in Revit

Sun Studies

With context buildings as masses:

• View → Sun Path
• Enable shadows
• Create solar study animation
• Export for presentations

View Analysis

Check sight lines from your building:

• Create section views through site
• Use 3D views with context visible
• Generate view corridors

Area Calculations

With imported roads/boundaries:

• Create area boundary from context
• Calculate site area
• Use for FAR/coverage calculations

Tips for Revit Integration

Keep It Light

• Link instead of import when possible
• Use 2D for context (import to plan views only)
• Delete what you don't need

Coordinate with Team

If sharing the model:

• Keep linked files in project folder
• Use relative paths
• Document the context source

Update Workflow

If site changes:

• Generate new export from ArchiKEK
• Save with same filename
• Revit will update automatically (if linked)

From Analysis to Design

Use your context map to:

• Identify building setbacks
• Align with street grid
• Respond to neighboring masses
• Justify design decisions

Create Your Site Context →