Design Options
Revit Design Options allow multiple design alternatives to coexist in a single model for comparison and client presentation.
Definition & Context
Design Options let you create alternative versions of part of a model within a single Revit file. A Design Option Set contains two or more options (e.g., "Lobby Layout A" vs "Lobby Layout B"). Only one option per set is "Primary" (shown by default in views) — the others are secondary and only visible when explicitly selected or through option-specific views.
This is invaluable during schematic design when the client hasn't decided between configurations: different facade treatments, two possible stair locations, or alternative MEP routing strategies. Without Design Options, you'd need separate files or duplicate views — both error-prone and hard to coordinate.
Elements belong to either the main model (visible always) or a specific option. When a decision is made, you "Accept Primary" to merge the chosen option into the main model and delete the alternatives. Limitations: elements in different option sets cannot reference each other; phasing and Design Options don't interact well; large option sets can confuse less-experienced team members. Use sparingly for truly undecided elements, not as a general versioning system — for that, use Revit's Save As or cloud model versioning.
Why It Matters
Design Options let a Revit model hold several design alternatives (e.g. two lobby layouts) in one file, so teams can develop, compare, and present variants without duplicating the whole model — essential for early-stage optioneering.
Best Practices
- Keep only genuinely varying elements in options; shared elements stay in the main model.
- Name option sets and options clearly for the team.
- Use view-specific option visibility to present each scheme.
- Accept the chosen option cleanly to fold it back into the model.
Common Pitfalls
- Putting too many elements into options, complicating the model.
- Editing main-model elements while an option is active by mistake.
- Confusion over which option a view is displaying.
- Never resolving options, leaving a cluttered model.
Core Commands & Practical System Operations
Executing Design Options effectively relies on specialized CAD/BIM command workflows and system variable configurations: BIM & CAD tools: WALL, FLOOR, ROOF, FAMILY, XREF, IFCEXPORT. Setup: Coordinate shared project base points, configure Level/Grid datum.
Standard Engineering Workflow for Design Options
1. Spatial Programming & Shared Georeferencing
Establish project base points, survey coordinates, building storeys, and column grid systems coordinated across architectural, structural, and MEP consultants.
2. LOD 200 - 300 Parametric Component Assembly
Model multi-layer architectural assemblies (curtain walls, structural framing, floor slabs, MEP risers) using intelligent parametric family components.
3. Interdisciplinary Clash Detection & Coordination
Federate discipline models in Navisworks or Solibri. Run automated hard/soft clash tests and track issues using BCF (BIM Collaboration Format) workflows.
4. 2D Construction Documentation & Quantity Schedules
Extract live plans, building sections, elevations, and automated component schedules (doors, windows, concrete volume) linked directly to the central model.
Common Failure Scenarios & Troubleshooting
| Failure / Geometric Issue | Root Cause & Mitigation Strategy |
|---|---|
| Architectural and Structural models do not align when linked | Shared coordinates were not acquired. Ensure both teams use 'Acquire Coordinates' from a designated master site model. |
| Wall joints and multi-layer materials do not clean up cleanly | Layer core priorities are misconfigured. Ensure structural cores have Priority 1, substrate Priority 2, insulation Priority 3, and finishes Priority 4/5. |
| IFC export drops custom attributes and scheduling properties | Map property sets using custom IFC export translation tables before exporting to external coordination software. |
Industry Standards & Compliance Codes
- ISO 19650-1/-2 (Organization of information about construction works - BIM)
- buildingSMART openBIM & IFC 4x3
- AIA Document E202 (Building Information Modeling Protocol)
- National CAD Standard (NCS)