Revit 2021 New Features

Autodesk Revit 2021 is here, and it offers a lot when it comes to new features and functionality for the AEC industry. The leading BIM software has been the standard by which all similar platforms are compared and has always been on the forefront in terms of available tools and options. The latest version of this Autodesk software sets the bar even higher by introducing innovations focused on productivity, collaboration, data exchange, and visualization.

In this video, Roger Liucci of Microsol Resources shares what’s new in the latest version of Revit. Get showstopping realism and enhanced engineering workflows, plus a new generative design tool launched from inside Revit.

Also, we created this article where we have compiled the top 25 new features Revit 2021 offers. While it was hard to choose between all great new additions in the new version, we believe our picks represent the new era of BIM software that Revit 2021 has ushered in.

What’s New in Revit 2021?

Revit 2021 introduces a myriad of features that have long been requested by users. On top of that, there are plenty of new and useful additions that we were surprised to see implemented. Let’s take a closer look at what Revit 2021 changes and improves over the previous version.

1. Void Cuts Geometry Parameter

One of the major enhancements in Revit 2021 concerns the void cuts family. You can now assign type and instance as a family parameter to voids. Using them, you can enhance your visibility and observe different types of cutting behavior in your project.

2. View Filter On/Off

The Visibility & Graphics section of Revit also has some new additions. You can now switch view filters on and off without having to remove them altogether. This is a significant quality-of-life improvement that will probably save you a lot of time.

3. Slanted Walls

Perhaps the most anticipated new feature is finally here. Revit 2021 allows you to create slanted walls without using mass or model-in-place commands. This is achieved by editing the instance parameter that walls now have to “slanted” and selecting the angle from vertical you need. The same process can be applied to windows and doors as well. We are certain that the Revit community will be quite happy about this addition.

4. Generative Design

If you are into generative design, you will be happy to know that Revit 2021 has implemented the concept. There are a total of three pre-made designs available:

• Workspace Layout
• Three Box Massing
• Maximize Window Views

Of course, you can fully customize each template to suit the particular needs of your project.

5. View Setting

The visualization system in Revit has been overhauled and is now more interactive and realistic than ever. You can now navigate through a Revit model with real-time lighting and advanced settings and controls. Visuals are noticeably improved, as well as the settings you can tweak. Cross-section views have never been easier to create! Many Revit users have been relying on plugins to achieve such quality of visualization in older versions. Now, however, it is all included in the software itself.

6. Learn More About Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP)

The Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) features of Revit have been updated with more options and better functionality. A special area that has been overhauled is the worksharing when it comes to MEP objects and elements. You and your team can now work on specific MEP elements without owning all parts of the system in question. Overall, teamwork on projects involving MEP has never been easier. We will take a look at a few specific MEP features in the lines below.

7. Circuit Naming

Revit 2021 allows you to define custom circuit naming schemes, which helps you customize how the number property of a circuit is visualized. There are several options when it comes to parameters you can include, along with prefix, suffix, and sample values.

8. Panel Schedules

You can now see single-phase panelboards in the panel schedule. Also, switchboards are changed to show the number of circuits. Revit 2021 lets you choose phases in circuits for switchboards.

9. Custom Workspaces

If you have dreamed of personalizing and customizing your Revit experience, you are in luck. You can now create your own profile on the platform and change your workspace and in any way you want. Revit allows you to make the UI and dialog windows more suitable to your role, job requirements, and convenience.

10. New Structural Enhancement Options

Revit 2021 introduces a significant amount of new features regarding structural modeling. For example, you can now make use of the shape code 98 (the chair). Additionally, there is a new option that overrides each instance of rebar for hook lengths and rotation, which is something the Revit user base has been requesting for some time now.

11. Schedule Updates

The scheduling system in Revit also gets a major update. The relatively new row stripes feature improved, allowing you to customize your schedules better. Even though the scheduling system can use some more work, it works considerably better than before.

12. Path of Travel

The Path of Travel introduced in Revit 2020 feature has also received an upgrade. The tool now allows you to edit the start and end points and insert waypoints anywhere in between. The visibility controls have also been noticeably improved, allowing you to pinpoint any issues.

13. Improved BIM 360 Navigation

Working in the cloud has never been easier. Revit 2021 lets you access BIM 360 projects right from the home screen of the platform. You also get a direct link to the cloud database on the same screen, letting you handle BIM 360 tasks in the fastest and most convenient way.

14. Integrated Precast Automation

There is a brand new addition to the Revit elements. It is the Precast ribbon tab that lets you work on the various stages of precast workflows. Revit 2021 has a variety of tools that can help you with creating manufacturing drawings and assemblies. Different categories you can edit include Segmentation, Steel Connections, Reinforcement, Fabrication, and more.

15. Stiffeners on Beams and Columns

If you work with steel models, you will be happy to see that Revit 2021 introduces stiffeners. You can place them at any point on a beam or a column, all using the same style connection tool. Overall, Revit 2021 has a lot of new features that deal with steel modeling. It will be interesting to see what else will be implemented in future updates.

16. Section Rotation & Tag Enhancement

Another small but handy addition is the ability to rotate section symbols, tags, and text on the objects. As a result, annotations can be made significantly more readable and comfortable to work with. The option to rotate with components has been high in-demand, and we are happy to see it finally implemented.

17. Infrastructure Discipline and Bridge Categories

A major new feature of Revit 2021 is the addition of an Infrastructure Discipline in the filters. There are a total of 26 new model categories and subcategories, as well as 20 new annotation categories. Those can be especially useful when it comes to modeling bridges.

18. Integration with Autodesk Inventor

The new Autodesk Inventor includes an AnyCAD functionality compatible with Revit 2021. You can now link the two tools and use them simultaneously with precise coordination and data exchange.

19. Integration with Dynamo 2.5

Revit 2021 can be easily integrated with Dynamo 2.5 that has 10 new dynamo nodes. The tool allows for the automation of tasks involving geometry joining and hosting Revit objects. The latest Dynamo version is known for better processing speed and significant improvements when it comes to steel connection and analysis.

20. Integration with P&ID

With the help of BIM 360, you can now integrate R&ID models straight into Revit. All schematic information regarding the P&ID models will be visible in Revit as well, making it convenient to work with.

21. Link PDF and Raster Images

Another useful addition to Revit 2021 is the option to link PDF files and images and use them whenever you need them. With this feature, you can use outside visuals as a reference without actually uploading them and unnecessarily increasing the size of your work file.

22. Structural Analysis Results

No need to go to third-party software or plugins to get your structural analysis results anymore. Revit 2021 comes equipped with the ability to display them preinstalled. You can also explore the results directly within the platform.

23. Reset Shared Coordinates

You can now reposition the models in your projects with ease. With just a single click, you can disable the shared coordinates between model files. You can also reinstate them in an instant if need be.

24. Improved CAD Import

Importing AutoCAD, SAT, Rhino, and Infraworks files in Revit often resulted in issues, mostly related to failure to import geometry parameters. Revit 2021 fixes that and makes the import of such files more reliable than it has ever been before.

25. FormIt Converter

The last great feature we would like to point out is the FormIt converter functionality. FormIt is an Autodesk tool that lets teams collaborate, iterate, and analyze construction designs. You can now freely move files between Revit and FormIt for better collaboration and productivity.