To add a level in Revit, you typically access the Level tool from the Datum panel within either the Architecture or Structure tab of the ribbon interface. This action activates the level creation mode, allowing you to define new horizontal reference planes for your building model.
In Revit, levels are essential horizontal reference planes that serve as the foundation for your building model. They define the various story heights, such as ground floor, second floor, roof, or basement, and are crucial for placing elements like walls, floors, and structural framing at the correct elevations. Each level is associated with a specific elevation and can have corresponding plan views (floor plans, ceiling plans) created automatically.
Step-by-Step Guide to Adding a Level in Revit
Adding a new level in your Revit project is a straightforward process. Here's a breakdown of the steps:
1. Accessing the Level Tool
To begin, you need to navigate to the correct tab and panel within the Revit interface.
- Navigate to the Correct Tab: Switch to either the Architecture tab or the Structure tab in the Revit ribbon, depending on the type of level you intend to create or your current workflow.
- Locate the Datum Panel: Within your chosen tab, look for the Datum panel. This panel contains tools related to reference elements like levels and grids.
- Click the Level Command: As referenced, "go over to my datum area. And I want to click once on level. Once I click once on level. It will bring me into that tool." Click the Level button (it often has an icon resembling a ruler or a section line with a level indication). This action activates the level creation tool.
2. Drawing the Level
Once the Level tool is active, Revit will switch to "draw mode," and you'll see contextual options in the ribbon.
- Select Drawing Option: In the ribbon, you'll typically find drawing options like "Line" or "Pick Lines." For most cases, Line is used to draw a new level.
- Define Start and End Points: Click in your drawing area (usually an elevation or section view) to define the start point of your new level. Then, move your cursor horizontally to the desired length and click again to set the end point. You'll notice a temporary dimension indicating the elevation as you draw.
- Align and Lock (Optional but Recommended): As you draw, Revit often provides snap guides to align new levels with existing ones. You can also drag the level line to align it precisely and even "lock" it to ensure it moves with other elements if they change.
3. Adjusting Level Properties
After placing the level, you can modify its properties to suit your project's needs.
- Select the Level: Click on the newly created level line to select it.
- Modify in Properties Palette: In the Properties Palette on the left side of your screen, you can change key parameters:
- Name: Rename the level (e.g., "Level 02," "Roof Level," "Basement").
- Elevation: Precisely set the height of the level. You can type in the exact value.
- Type: Levels can be either architectural or structural. This affects what views are automatically created and how they interact with different disciplines.
- Datum Properties: Adjust the appearance of the level head (e.g., display bubble on one or both ends).
- Temporary Dimensions: While the level is selected, you can also use temporary dimensions to quickly adjust its elevation relative to other levels.
4. Creating Associated Views
By default, when you create a new level, Revit often prompts you or automatically creates associated floor plan and ceiling plan views. This is crucial for navigating and working on different stories of your building.
- Check Project Browser: Verify that the new views appear in the Project Browser under "Floor Plans" and "Ceiling Plans."
- Rename Views (if necessary): Ensure view names match your level names for clarity.
Key Level Properties
Here's a quick overview of common properties you'll adjust for levels:
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Name | The identifier for the level (e.g., "Level 1," "Ground Floor," "Roof"). |
| Elevation | The height of the level relative to the project base point or survey point. |
| Type | Defines if it's an architectural level (for floor/ceiling plans) or structural level (for framing plans). |
| Views | Indicates if associated floor plan or ceiling plan views exist. |
| Head Display | Controls whether the level bubble (name and elevation) appears on one or both ends of the level line. |
Best Practices for Level Creation
- Consistent Naming: Use a clear and consistent naming convention (e.g., "Level 01," "Level 02," or "Ground Floor," "First Floor").
- Logical Elevations: Set elevations that align with your project's architectural and structural requirements.
- Reference Views: Always add levels in elevation or section views for precise placement and visualization.
- Minimize Levels: Create only the levels you truly need. Too many unnecessary levels can clutter your project browser and make navigation cumbersome.
By following these steps, you can effectively add and manage levels in your Revit project, establishing the foundational structure for your building model.
