Enscape supports multiple BIM/CAD applications like Revit, SketchUp, Rhino, and more. When materials are assigned to elements within those applications, the results in Enscape can be fantastic. One challenge we sometimes experience is when more than one supported BIM/CAD authoring platform is used on the same project, and the combined results need to be viewed in Enscape.
Using the steps offered in this article, it is possible to bring multiple file types together, assign Revit materials, and then view the results in Enscape. This even works on some authoring tools not supported by Enscape, such as AutoCAD (DWG) files, which creates an opportunity to use manufactured objects or include a detailed survey/civil site model.
Note: This article specifically features linked CAD files. Although CAD files can be imported, it is not recommended for organizational and performance reasons within Revit.
To illustrate the workflow, a DWG and SKP file each containing three boxes will be used, as shown in the image below. The same steps covered for DWG files can be applied to Rhino 3dm files.
Two linked CAD files, each containing three boxes
When a CAD file is linked and selected, the Query tool can be selected from the Ribbon to inspect element properties within the link. This is especially useful if you do not have the authoring tool (AutoCAD or SketchUp), meaning you cannot just open the file and list these properties.
Inspecting properties within a CAD link
When CAD files are linked, Revit materials are created. The materials created from a DWG import are assigned to Object Styles, making them easier to swap out. The materials created from a SKP import are assigned directly to the elements, which means the materials need to be edited or repurposed rather than swapped. Both workflows will be covered.
Notice that SketchUp materials have been organized in a custom material category named "SKP" which I have used to filter the list in the Material Browser.
Discovering Revit materials created by imported CAD links
Working with AutoCAD (DWG) links
Simply changing the material assignments in the Object Styles dialog updates the material assignment in both Revit and Enscape, as shown here. The "Render Material" options remain in the model.
FYI: The numbers after the "Render Material" prefix are the shade color RGB value. There are some limitations in that the paint tool does not work on linked surfaces. In some cases, the original CAD file needs to be modified to get optimal results.
Materials changed by Layer for AutoCAD (DWG) link
Working with SketchUp (SKP) links
When SketchUp is linked, the materials are created with names matching the materials within SketchUp as seen in the next two images. It is not typically possible to determine which surface a material is assigned to. A quick way to do this is to set the Revit view to shaded and assign an unusual "shade" color on the Graphics tab within the Material Browser.
Determining which Revit material is assigned to SketchUp geometry (in Shaded view mode)
Material list from within SketchUp
Once the material is determined, it can be modified and even renamed as needed. Since the material is assigned directly to the linked surface, it is not possible to swap the material for another.
One trick in repurposing a material is to use the Replace This Asset icon shown in the image below. I applied a new appearance asset (using an advanced plywood texture provided with Revit). In this case, I would also want to rename the material to make it easier to find in the future.
Repurposing a Revit material
The results of modifying the DWG and SKP links look amazing in Enscape! Notice the self-illuminating material and even a cutout material showing the inside of a linked box have been defined?
Revit materials successfully assigned to linked CAD elements
Conclusion
When multiple authoring tools are used on a single project, Revit has a nice workflow that allows for high-quality results in Enscape. With the various elements represented, stunning real-time presentations, still images, VR, and videos can be created.
