Revit

How to Put an Object on Top of Another in Revit?

Understanding the Draw Order in Revit

Revit allows you to manage how objects are stacked in your drawings through its draw order feature. This functionality is essential when you have overlapping elements and need to control which object appears on top visually. Understanding the basics of draw order will enable you to manipulate your details effectively.

Step-by-Step Process to Rearrange Objects

To place an object on top of another in Revit, follow these detailed steps:

1. Select the Object

Begin by selecting the object you wish to reposition. You can do this by clicking on the object directly in the drawing area. If you want to select multiple objects, hold down the Ctrl key while clicking on each one.

2. Access the Modify Tab

After selecting your object(s), the Modify tab will appear at the top of the screen. This tab includes various tools to help you manipulate the selected elements.

3. Explore the Arrange Panel

Within the Modify tab, locate the Arrange panel. This section houses options that control object layering. Look for the icons marked “Bring to Front” and “Send to Back.”

4. Bring Object to Front

To ensure your selected object appears above others, click on the “Bring to Front” option. This action will immediately reposition the chosen element above all others within the current view, making it the most visible.

5. Additional Adjustment

If you need to send an object backwards in the hierarchy instead, use the “Send Backward” option. This allows for finer control over the layering of your objects.

Practical Tips for Managing Layers

When manipulating objects in Revit, consider the following practices to enhance your workflow:

1. Utilize Graphics Display Options

Adjusting your view settings can help you see stacked objects more clearly. Use the Visibility/Graphics panel to toggle on or off certain layers, simplifying what appears on-screen and making the arrangement process easier.

2. Grouping Objects

If you frequently rearrange a set of objects together, consider grouping them. This way, you can bring the entire group to the front or send it back as one unit without needing to select each object individually.

3. Review Object Styles

Understanding how styles apply to your layers can affect visual hierarchy as well. In the Object Styles settings, you can adjust the appearance of layers, which may help in identifying which objects require repositioning.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I rearrange objects in a 3D view as well?

Yes, the same draw order principles apply in both 2D and 3D views. Selecting an object in a 3D view and using the same options from the Modify tab allows you to manipulate its position within the visual hierarchy.

2. Are there any limitations when arranging objects?

Some objects may not be fully adjustable in terms of layering depending on their type and how they were created. Not all object types support the draw order feature in the same way.

3. How can I ensure my changes are consistent across different views?

After adjusting the draw order in one view, check other views to ensure the adjustments appear as desired. Consistency can be maintained by selectively manipulating the draw order in each view as necessary.

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.