AI for Architecture | Architecture | Interior | Revit | Space design

Exporting Revit Files to OBJ Format: A Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction: Why Export Revit Files to OBJ?

Revit is one of the most powerful BIM tools for architects, engineers, and students. It’s great for modeling, documentation, and coordination. But sometimes, you need your model outside Revit—maybe for rendering, visualization, or even simulation. That’s where file formats come in.

One of the most widely used formats is OBJ. It’s simple, flexible, and supported by almost every 3D software, from Blender and 3ds Max to Unity and Unreal. But here’s the catch: Revit doesn’t natively export OBJ files.

So, what do you do when you need your model in OBJ format? Don’t worry—this guide will walk you through everything. We’ll cover why OBJ is important, how to prepare your model, what tools or plugins to use, and how to check your export for accuracy. By the end, you’ll be exporting like a pro.

Step 1: Preparing Your Revit Model for Export

Before exporting, preparation is key. Think of it like cleaning your room before moving furniture—you don’t want to take the clutter with you.

Start by opening the 3D view of your model. OBJ export works best when the model is in a defined 3D view. Hide unnecessary elements like reference planes, temporary sections, or worksets you don’t need. This reduces file size and keeps the export clean.

Next, check your materials and textures. While OBJ supports geometry well, textures can sometimes get tricky. Make sure your materials are applied correctly and simplified where possible. If you have overly detailed textures, consider whether they are needed.

Finally, purge unused families. In Revit, unused families and elements often pile up. Purging them keeps your file lighter and ensures smoother exports.

Step 2: Using Plugins to Export Revit Files to OBJ

Here’s the reality: Revit doesn’t include OBJ export as a built-in option. If you look under File → Export → CAD Formats, you’ll see options like DWG, DXF, and DGN—but no OBJ

That’s where plugins come in. Several reliable plugins add OBJ export functionality to Revit. Popular choices include:

1. Open the 3d view of the model.

File - Export - Cad Formats- OBJ format

Save the file.

• SimLab OBJ Exporter: Known for supporting textures and materials.
• Revit to OBJ Exporter (Autodesk App Store): Simple and beginner-friendly.
• Twinmotion Direct Link: Exports to compatible formats that can be converted to OBJ.

Installing these plugins is straightforward. Download from the Autodesk App Store, run the installer, and restart Revit. Once installed, you’ll find the plugin under the Add-Ins tab.

Step 3: Exporting the Model to OBJ Format

With the plugin installed, exporting becomes much easier. Let’s walk through the process step by step:

• Open the 3D view of the model you want to export.
• Go to Add-Ins → OBJ Exporter (or your chosen plugin).

• Choose export settings. You’ll usually see options for:

Geometry: Whether to export all or selected elements.
Textures: Include or exclude material maps.
Scaling: Ensure the units match your destination software.

• Select your file location and give it a clear name.

• Click Export.

Within a few moments, Revit will generate an OBJ file along with an MTL file (this handles material definitions).

Step 4: Checking the OBJ File After Export

Once your file is exported, the next step is verification. Don’t assume everything worked perfectly—always check.

Open the OBJ file in a visualization tool like Blender, 3ds Max, or SketchUp. Import the OBJ and see how it looks. Pay attention to:

• Geometry: Are all walls, floors, and components showing correctly?
• Textures: Do the materials appear? Sometimes they need relinking.
• Scaling: Does the size of the model match expectations?

If something looks off—like missing textures or flipped surfaces—don’t panic. These are common issues and can usually be fixed by adjusting export settings or relinking materials.

Step 5: Best Practices for OBJ Exports from Revit

Over time, you’ll develop your own workflow, but here are some best practices to start with:

• Test on small models first. Don’t jump straight into exporting a 500 MB project. Try with a smaller model to learn the workflow.
• Keep file sizes manageable. Export only what you need. A full hospital model doesn’t always need every chair or detail in OBJ format.
• Name files clearly. Use project name, date, and version in filenames. For example: School_Project_V2_OBJ.obj.
• Document your process. If you’re working in a team, write down your steps so everyone uses the same method.

These habits save headaches later and make collaboration smoother.

Common Problems and Fixes

OBJ exports are useful, but they aren’t always perfect. Here are some common issues and how to fix them:

• Textures missing: Ensure that “export textures” was checked in the plugin. If still missing, manually relink them in the target software.
• File too large: Purge unused families and hide unnecessary elements before export.
• Scaling wrong: Double-check unit settings in both Revit and the export plugin.
• Crashes during export: Break the model into smaller parts and export separately.

These problems are normal. With practice, you’ll get better at avoiding them.

Use Cases of OBJ Files from Revit

Exporting to OBJ isn’t just about file conversion. It unlocks new workflows and opportunities:

• Rendering: Use OBJ in Blender, V-Ray, or Lumion for photorealistic renders.
• Game Engines: OBJ is supported in Unity and Unreal Engine for VR walkthroughs.
• Simulation: Tools like Andrew Marsh’s Sun Path Analysis
• 3D Printing: Convert OBJ to STL for rapid prototyping.
• Education: Students can share models with peers using free OBJ-compatible tools.

With OBJ, your Revit models go beyond BIM and enter the world of visualization, analysis, and interaction.

FAQs on Exporting Revit Files to OBJ

Does Revit have a built-in OBJ exporter?
No. You need plugins to export directly to OBJ.

Which plugin is best for OBJ export?
SimLab OBJ Exporter is popular for material support, while Revit to OBJ Exporter is beginner-friendly.

Can I export only part of a model?
Yes. Most plugins allow exporting selected elements.

Do textures always export correctly?
Not always. Sometimes they need adjustment in your target software.

Will OBJ work in Blender or 3ds Max?
Yes, OBJ is widely supported across 3D tools.

Conclusion: A Simple Workflow for Revit to OBJ

Exporting from Revit to OBJ might feel intimidating at first, especially since it’s not a native option. But once you understand the workflow, it’s actually straightforward.

By preparing your model, using the right plugin, and checking your results, you can produce clean OBJ files ready for rendering, VR, or even 3D printing. This process doesn’t just give you flexibility—it also expands what your Revit projects can achieve.

Mastering exporting Revit files to OBJ format opens doors to better presentations, innovative workflows, and more polished results. Try it once, and you’ll see how powerful it can be.

Now the object model can be loaded in stimulation software for analysis.

Can check the below link for more info on Sun path analysis!

Sunpath Analysis in Architecture for Sustainable Building Design: Tools, Methods, and Benefits– ANDREW MARSH SIMULATION TOOL