Rendering Effects in Revit (Part 2): Override Graphics and Element Highlighting

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Part 2: Override Graphics and Element Highlighting

Introduction

Sometimes, you need to draw attention to specific parts of your design. Maybe you want to highlight a staircase, emphasize glass windows, or show the structure separately from finishes. Instead of redrawing in Photoshop, you can do all of this inside Revit.

In this post, the second in our rendering effects in Revit series, we’ll explore how to use override graphics and element highlighting to make your views clearer and more effective.

Step 1: Using Override Graphics by Element

Right-click on any element and select Override Graphics in View → By Element. This opens options for line weight, color, and pattern. For example, you can make one wall darker or change its surface hatch.

This tool is perfect for presentations where a single feature needs to stand out. Instead of changing the entire category, you only adjust what matters.

Step 2: Override Graphics by Category

Sometimes, you want all elements of one type to stand out. In this case, use Override Graphics → By Category. For example, highlight all windows in blue or all structural columns in red.

This approach works well for diagrams where categories need to be distinguished quickly, like separating structure from finishes.

Step 3: Highlighting Elements with Filters

Filters allow you to highlight multiple elements with shared properties. Open View Filters and create rules. For instance, highlight only glass walls or only elements with a certain material.

This gives you control over large groups without editing each individually. Filters are reusable, so once you set them up, you can apply them to multiple views.

Step 4: Combining Highlighting with Transparency

Highlighting works even better when combined with transparency. For example, you can make walls transparent while keeping structural beams highlighted. This layering effect gives depth and clarity to your renderings.

Case example , Lets try with new rendering effect

1. Select the View as a whole 

Now the View specific element graphics dialogue box can be opened using,

2. Modify - View Tab - Override Graphics in view (brush Icon)

Override Graphics in view- Icon location

3. Select Override by Element.

View Specific Element Graphics settings

View generated with respect to above setting

Now can play with image by highlighting the elements as shown below.

The Railing element is selected and its projection line color is highlighted with a different color.

Updated view as per the Railing element color change input.

Wall fins are selected and color can be changed in the foreground option

View- based on the input given in the View specific Element Graphics.

Created view can also be exported as Image in Revit.

Can refer the Link below for further details:

Best Practices for Override Graphics

• Use highlighting sparingly—too much color weakens the effect.
• Choose a consistent color scheme for clarity.
• Save filters for reuse across multiple views.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Highlighting too many categories, which overwhelms the viewer.
• Using bright colors like neon green, which look unprofessional.
• Forgetting to reset overrides when returning to standard views.

Conclusion

Override graphics and element highlighting give you full control over what stands out in your renderings. They’re perfect for presentations where certain details matter most.

In Part 3, we’ll look at floor highlighting, filters, and custom angles, bringing everything together for dynamic architectural presentations.

Rendering Effects in Revit (Part 3): Floor Highlighting, Filters, and Custom Angles