2025-10-06 3DM Practical (CP#3 Creating Walls)

Quick recap

The class focused on progress in Design Studio, where students are working on a housing project in Port Royal and preparing to submit their booklet. Brian led demonstrations and instruction on various Revit modeling techniques, including wall types, BIM modeling levels of detail, and the use of Modeling Place mode to create custom objects. The instructor covered different methods for creating walls in Revit and discussed design considerations, while announcing the timeline for checkpoint 3 and reminding students about submitting Class Activity 4.

Next steps

• All students to complete the walls for the ground floor of their project using the curtain wall tool or manual method.

• All students to incorporate windows and doors in their wall designs.

• All students to ensure walls are centered on grid lines following best practices.

• All students to incorporate louvers somewhere in their design .

• All students to submit Class Activity 4 as a Revit file with a picture.

• Presenters to deliver Topic 5 and 6 presentations within 15-20 minutes.

Summary

Design Studio Housing Project Update

The class discussed progress in Design Studio, where students are working on a housing project in Port Royal and preparing to submit their booklet. Brian explained that Checkpoint 3, worth 20%, will focus on building the total model including walls, roof, stairs, and railings over the next 2-3 weeks. The class engaged in a Revit activity to learn about wall types, which Brian noted was similar to work done in construction technology.

BIM Modeling Levels and Techniques

Brian explained the different levels of detail in BIM modeling, from 2D symbols to photorealistic renderings, and demonstrated how to create a timber wall in Revit using the component tool and modeling mode. He showed how to model a simple 2x4 piece of lumber and explained the process of creating custom components in Revit. Brian emphasized the importance of considering time and intended use when choosing the level of detail for different elements in a BIM model.

Revit Modeling Place Demonstration

Brian Williams demonstrated how to use the Modeling Place mode in Revit to create and modify custom objects. He showed how to extrude, sweep, and revolve shapes, and explained the different modes and tools available within Modeling Place. Brian also covered how to edit and modify objects, as well as how to exit Modeling Place and incorporate the created objects into the main project environment.

Revit Timber Wall Modelling Demo

Brian demonstrated how to create a timber wall using Revit's Modelling Place tool, showing the process of extruding, copying, and adding cladding. He explained that students would create three different walls, starting with this detailed scratch-built model as the highest quality example. Brian clarified that while he created the wall in multiple components, students had the option to build everything in one Modelling Place object if they preferred.

Revit Wall Creation Techniques

Brian demonstrated three methods for creating walls in Revit: detailed modeling from scratch, using curtain wall features, and using basic wall types with symbolic representation. He explained the pros and cons of each method, noting that for most Design Studio purposes, the third method of defining structural layers and using symbols would be most appropriate. Brian then instructed the class to continue working on their major project by opening their models after a brief break.

Curtain Wall Design Demonstration

Brian led a discussion on designing and modeling the walls for a building project. He demonstrated using the curtain wall tool to create stud walls with visible studs, which is a requirement for the grading criteria. Brian emphasized the importance of creating an accurate representation of the construction concept without going into unnecessary detail. He showed how to adjust wall dimensions, add windows and doors, and ensure walls are centered on the grid. The group also discussed adding structural support and wall coverings. Brian encouraged participants to follow his example while adapting the design to their own needs.

Rivet Wall and Grid Alignment

The instructor demonstrated how to properly align walls and grids in Rivet, emphasizing best practices for location lines and grid placement. He showed students how to use the curtain wall tool for windows and doors, including a detailed example of creating a corner window. The instructor announced that checkpoint 3 would run until October 25th, covering walls, floors, railings, and roof, with the next class focusing on stairs. He reminded students to submit Class Activity 4 by creating walls in Revit and taking a screenshot, which would be added to the class website shortly.

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