Revit

How to Change Object Size in Revit?

Understanding Object Scaling in Revit

When working with Autodesk Revit, adjusting the size of objects can be essential for accurate representation and design integrity. This process involves different methods depending on the type of element in question—be it a mass, family, or view. Below are detailed steps on how to effectively change the size of various objects in Revit.

Changing the Size of Families

  1. Open Family Editor: To alter the dimensions of a family, first access the Family Editor. This can be done by selecting the family from your project and choosing “Edit” from the context menu.

  2. Select the Element: Click on the specific element within the family that you wish to resize. This could be a component like a door or a piece of furniture.

  3. Modify Parameters: In the Properties palette, locate the size parameters associated with the selected element. Here, adjustments can be made to dimensions such as width, height, and depth.

  4. Use Reference Planes: If necessary, draw reference planes to help dictate where adjustments should be made. This is particularly useful for ensuring that elements are symmetrically resized.

  5. Load into Project: Once you have made the desired adjustments, click on “Load into Project” to apply the changes. Remember to use the “Overwrite the existing version” option if prompted.

Resizing Mass Elements

  1. Select the Mass: In the project environment, select the mass object that needs resizing.

  2. Use the Scale Tool: Navigate to the ‘Modify’ tab and find the ‘Scale’ tool. This feature allows for graphical resizing of the mass.

  3. Define the Origin: Click to establish an origin point for the scale modification. This is your reference point for scaling.

  4. Establish Scale Vectors: Click two additional points that will determine the scaling direction and magnitude. This allows you to stretch or compress the mass accordingly.

Modifying 3D Views on Sheets

  1. Select the View on the Sheet: In your sheet layout, click on the 3D view that you want to modify.

  2. Access Modify Tab: Go to the ‘Modify’ tab and choose the “Size Crop” option.

  3. Adjust Scale Options: In the settings that appear, select the radio button for “Scale” to activate scaling adjustments. Here, you can specify the new dimensions you need.

  4. Check Positions: Before finalizing, ensure that the adjustments fit well within the layout and do not disrupt other views or annotations.

Using the Scale Tool for Multiple Objects

  1. Choosing Objects: Hold the ‘Ctrl’ key and click to select multiple elements that you want to scale simultaneously.

  2. Access the Scale Tool: With the objects selected, find the Scale tool within the ‘Modify’ tab.

  3. Determine Origin Point: Just like with individual elements, click to define the origin point for your scaling action.

  4. Create Vectors: Click two more points as vectors for scaling. This will alter the size of the selected multiple elements uniformly.

FAQ

What happens if a view template is applied to my view?
When a view template is applied to a view, it can lock certain parameters, including scale. To modify the scale, you may need to remove the view template or edit the template settings directly, allowing for individual view customization.

Can I resize elements using keyboard shortcuts?
While there are some keyboard shortcuts for various commands, scaling typically requires using the Scale tool with clicks. Familiarize yourself with Revit’s shortcuts to speed up your workflow.

Are there specific units of measurement I need to consider when scaling objects?
Yes, Revit operates with specific units based on your project settings. Make sure to check and use the correct units during scaling to maintain accuracy in your designs.

About the author

Wei Zhang

Wei Zhang

Wei Zhang is a renowned figure in the CAD (Computer-Aided Design) industry in Canada, with over 30 years of experience spanning his native China and Canada. As the founder of a CAD training center, Wei has been instrumental in shaping the skills of hundreds of technicians and engineers in technical drawing and CAD software applications. He is a certified developer with Autodesk, demonstrating his deep expertise and commitment to staying at the forefront of CAD technology. Wei’s passion for education and technology has not only made him a respected educator but also a key player in advancing CAD methodologies in various engineering sectors. His contributions have significantly impacted the way CAD is taught and applied in the professional world, bridging the gap between traditional drafting techniques and modern digital solutions.