Detailing with Revit 101

Overview

Detailing in Revit is the process of adding detail elements to model geometry to create construction details. It allows you to represent components that are too small, numerous, or complex to model in 3D, helping bridge the gap between design intent and real-world construction.

Basic Process for Creating Detail Views

1. Create views of the model to be detailed.
2. Add detail elements to illustrate components that are too small or too complex to model.
3. Annotate the detail view with dimensions, notes, and/or keynotes as required.
4. Maintain a library of standard details for reuse across multiple projects.

Creating Views
Use section, callout, or drafting views to document your model and produce construction drawings.
When detailing, you can:

• Use model elements directly as part of the detail.
• Use model geometry as a reference for detail components.
• Or create entirely 2D detail views without using model geometry.

How to Create Detail Views

• Go to View tab → Create panel → Callout

• Or View tab → Create panel → Section

How to Create Drafting Views

• Go to View tab → Create panel → Drafting View

Drafting views are ideal when you need to show details not directly associated with the building model.

About Detailing Views
Detailing views provide crucial information to bridge the gap between the design model and construction reality. They communicate to builders and contractors exactly how the design should be constructed.

Revit is a building information modeling (BIM) tool that represents a project digitally. However, not every component needs to be modeled in 3D. Architects and engineers often use standard details to show how materials and assemblies are constructed and connected.

Types of Detailing Views

There are two main types of views used for detailing in Revit:

When to Use Details
Use detailing tools and views to:

• Convey specific construction or fabrication information.
• Show features that are not part of the modeled components.
• Draft standalone 2D views (e.g., signage, standard details).
• Trace over underlay elements visible in a view.
• Add detail to a portion of the model (e.g., wall section or callout).
• Illustrate additional features, such as turning vanes in an elbow, when not supported by the modeled component.

Example
A foundation detail can be sketched using Revit’s detailing tools, combining model geometry, 2D linework, and annotations to clearly communicate construction intent.

Best Practices

• Maintain a shared library of standard detail components for reuse across projects.
• Use callouts to focus on critical junctions or assemblies.
• Clearly annotate all details to ensure readability in construction documentation.
• Avoid unnecessary modeling of small components—represent them in 2D instead.

About the Author

Sr Technical Support Specialist<br><br> Skilled in AutoCAD, Mixed-use, Renovation, Revit, and Sustainable Design. Strong arts and design professional with a BA in Urban design focused in Architecture from University of Washington.

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