Here are a few practical examples of how to use the feature 'Layers' for your projects:
1. Managing Design Options
Layers can be used to explore and compare different design alternatives within the same project.
Example workflow:
Create layers such as Massing Option A, Option B, and Option C
Place different design schemes on separate layers
Toggle visibility to compare options quickly
Lock finalized options to prevent accidental edits
This allows designers to test multiple ideas without duplicating the project.
2. Organizing Complex Models
Layers help structure large projects by separating different types of geometry.
Example layer structure:
Site & Context
Topography
Building BIM Model
Spaces / Rooms
Planning Blocks
Designers can hide non-essential layers to reduce visual clutter and focus on the part of the model they are working on.
3. Creating Clean Presentation Views
Layers allow users to create views tailored for presentation or internal work.
Working View:
Shows reference elements like grids, site lines, or planning blocks
Presentation View:
Hides construction references
Displays only finalized geometry
Because layer visibility is saved per view, switching views automatically restores the correct layer configuration.
4. Team Collaboration
Layers allow multiple team members to work in the same model without interfering with each other.
Example workflow:
Designer A works on the BIM Model layer
Designer B edits Spaces and Programs
Designer C develops Site and Context
Since each user has their own active layer and layer locks are global, teams can work in parallel while protecting critical geometry.
5. Protecting Reference Geometry
Layers can be locked to prevent edits to important reference elements.
Examples:
Site boundaries
Imported CAD references
Topography
Approved building footprints
Locking the layer ensures these elements remain unchanged while modeling continues.
6. Managing Area and Program Data
Layers can help filter objects when reviewing area metrics.
Example:
Assign residential units to a Residential layer
Assign amenities to an Amenities layer
Use layers as filters in the Area Panel to isolate metrics for specific parts of the project
This helps teams analyze different program components more efficiently.
7. Controlling Exported Content
Layers help control what is included in exports.
Example:
Hide planning blocks or reference geometry
Export only the finalized BIM model
Hidden layers are automatically excluded from exported models and views.