Early-stage design is all about exploring ideas, evaluating options, and making informed decisions before detailed modeling begins. Autodesk continues to expand those capabilities with the latest updates to Autodesk Forma Site Design and the introduction of Autodesk Forma Building Design, helping project teams move more efficiently from concept through schematic design.

During our recent webinar, IMAGINiT Senior Applications Expert Ahmed Abdallah explored the newest enhancements and demonstrated how Autodesk is creating a more connected workflow between Forma and Revit.

A More Connected Design Workflow

One of the most significant changes is Autodesk's new Forma Connected Client for Revit 2027.

Rather than relying on the previous Forma add-in, Revit 2027 introduces Scenarios, a cloud-based design container that connects Revit and Forma using Autodesk's new workflow technology. This creates a more streamlined way to leverage Forma's design intelligence and analysis tools while keeping projects connected throughout the design process.

While the feature is currently in Tech Preview, it represents Autodesk's continued investment in cloud-connected design workflows.

New AI-Powered Design Exploration

Autodesk is also expanding the role of AI during conceptual design.

The new Layout Explorer can automatically generate preliminary floor plan layouts for office and multifamily buildings based on a simple building mass. Although still experimental, it offers architects another way to quickly evaluate design options during the earliest stages of a project.

Autodesk is encouraging users to provide feedback, allowing the AI to continue improving over time.

Better Site Analysis and Financial Insights

Several enhancements make Forma Site Design even more valuable during feasibility studies.

New capabilities include:

• Expanded wind analysis options with additional scale settings

• Enhanced functional programming tools for defining building spaces

• A new Cost Analysis tool that compares estimated costs and revenue

• CSV export for sharing financial analysis with project teams

Instead of waiting until later phases to understand project feasibility, teams can quickly evaluate whether a design direction makes financial sense while concepts are still evolving.

Introducing Autodesk Forma Building Design

Perhaps the biggest addition is the new Forma Building Design module.

Once a conceptual site design is established, users can seamlessly continue developing the building by adding:

• Building facades

• Windows and curtain wall layouts

• Floor plans

• Stairs and elevators

• Walls and columns

• Custom facade modules

The workflow allows designers to refine buildings without immediately moving into detailed Revit modeling, giving teams greater flexibility during schematic design.

AI Rendering for Faster Visualization

Autodesk has also enhanced the Forma Board, allowing users to generate AI-powered renderings directly from design views.

With multiple rendering modes available, project teams can quickly produce presentation-quality visuals that help communicate design intent to owners and stakeholders without investing significant time in traditional rendering workflows.

Bringing Designs into Revit

Once a design has been reviewed and approved, Autodesk Forma makes it easier to continue development in Revit.

For Revit 2027 users, the new Connected Client provides a cloud-based workflow through Scenarios. Earlier versions of Revit continue to use existing export methods.

The recommended approach is to complete concept exploration and owner reviews within Forma before transitioning the project into Revit for detailed documentation.

The Future of Early Design

Autodesk continues to expand Forma beyond site planning into a comprehensive conceptual design platform. With AI-assisted layouts, enhanced analysis tools, connected Revit workflows, and the new Building Design module, teams can evaluate more options, collaborate more effectively, and move into detailed design with greater confidence.

As these capabilities continue to evolve, organizations that adopt connected workflows early will be better positioned to reduce rework and make more informed design decisions throughout the project lifecycle.

Learn More

Want to see these new capabilities in action?

Watch our on-demand webinar, What's New in Autodesk Forma Site Design, where Ahmed Abdallah demonstrates the latest features, explains the updated Revit workflow, and shares practical tips for getting started with Autodesk Forma.

Watch the on-demand webinar today and discover how Autodesk Forma can help accelerate your conceptual design process.