An Introduction to Graded Regions using Topo Solids in Revit 2024

Once you've created a topo solid, Revit 2024 offers more editing options than previous versions. You get improved controls for manipulating the landscape as easy as one might a floor for hardscapes. What we are going to focus on in this post, is cut and fill analysis.

First, you begin with an existing topo, which can be brought in via the traditional methods of Landxml files, CAD files, or even a surveyor’s CSV file. If you have a Toposurface from an existing project using a previous release of Revit, those too can be converted into Toposolids.

In the Properties Panel, adjust the Phasing properties of the Toposolid to Phase Created > Existing, and Phase Demolished > None.

Then on the Massing and Site tab, select Graded Region Analysis, typically the last command on that ribbon tab.

You will then be granted a short questionnaire. Don’t worry, it is platonic. Maybe tectonic if we are being technical.

Next, make the adjustments needed, such as creating voids for building pads or other hard scape, or otherwise adjusting the Sub-element points per the new design. The Toposolid in the new phase should, by default, be set to Phase Created > New Construction, Phase Demolished > None. It should also basically sit right on top of the Toposolid that was created in the Existing phase. Then select the final Toposolid. The deltas created between the two conditions of the toposolid, will give you the cut and fill calculations in the properties panel. These results can also be scheduled.

Overall, the tools for analyzing topos and calculating cut/fill volumes continue to improve considerably in this release. The surface and volume analysis results are displayed in the Properties Panel and are immediately informative, making it easier to evaluate the earthwork requirements for your site.

If you design landscapes, Revit 2024's toposolid tools paired with phasing can help expedite and optimize your site grading workflows. By streamlining tasks like terrain modeling, volume calculation and iteration analysis, significant time savings can be achieved on your projects.

About the Author

Building Solutions Applications Expert<br><br>Having spent more than 22+ years working in the building industry, Kenniston puts his expertise to work for clients whether its creating complex electrical systems for data centers, design custom luxury homes, or helping them integrate all disciplines into a cohesive BIM process.<br><br>He’s spent time doing custom residential architecture and electrical designs, creating quantity takeoffs, and developing construction sequences, and implementing construction pre-fabrication services. Helping organizations make the most of their technology – and plan for future goals – is a key part of how he aids clients at IMAGINiT.

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