Understanding Key Plans in Revit
A key plan serves as an essential tool in architectural drawings, providing a simplified overview of the floor plans that highlight the primary structural elements within a building or site. In Revit, a key plan can aid in visualizing the relationships between different areas or components and is critical for effective documentation and communication of design intent.
Steps to Create a Key Plan Legend in Revit
Step 1: Prepare the Project
Ensure that your Revit project is set up adequately. This involves making sure that all the views you will need are present and properly organized. Open the floor plans that will be included in your key plan and familiarize yourself with the layout of the spaces involved.
Step 2: Create a New Legend View
1. Go to the “View” tab in the ribbon.
2. Click on the “Legends” dropdown.
3. Select “Legend” to create a new legend view. A blank legend view will open.
Step 3: Set Up the Legend Title
In the new legend view, start by adding a title to your legend. This can be done by using the Text tool from the “Annotate” tab:
1. Click on the “Text” option.
2. Position your text box in the top portion of the legend.
3. Input a suitable title, such as “Key Plan Legend.”
Step 4: Add Key Plan Symbols
Symbolizing various elements of your key plan is essential for clarity. Here’s how to create and add symbols:
1. Use the “Symbol” tool within the “Annotate” tab.
2. Choose predefined symbols or create custom ones according to the defined elements in your key plan.
3. Place the symbols in the legend and ensure they are clearly labeled with the corresponding descriptions.
Step 5: Insert Key Plan Graphics
To visually represent the layout in the legend:
1. Utilize the “Viewport” tool found in the “View” tab.
2. Select the relevant floor plans you want to include in this key plan.
3. Position the viewports within the legend area.
4. Adjust the size and crop the viewports for clarity.
Step 6: Finalize and Adjust the Layout
After placing all elements:
1. Review the arrangement of the legend to ensure it is organized and visually appealing.
2. Adjust spacing between symbols and text for readability.
3. Use the alignment tools available in Revit to ensure everything is well-positioned.
Step 7: Save and Update the Legend
Once satisfied with the layout:
1. Save your changes.
2. Remember that the key plan legend may need to be updated as changes occur in your project, so keep the legend synchronized with your current designs.
FAQs about Key Plans and Legends in Revit
What is the primary purpose of a key plan in architectural drawings?
A key plan provides a simplified reference that highlights the relationships between different spatial areas in a building, making it easier to navigate complex designs.
Can I use custom symbols in my key plan legend?
Yes, Revit allows users to create and use custom symbols in their key plan legends to suit the specific needs of the project.
How often should I update the key plan legend during a project?
It’s advisable to update the key plan legend whenever significant changes are made to the floor plans to keep the documentation accurate and reflective of the current design.
