The Revit family template functions like a building block, encompassing both the process of creating a family and the necessary information for placing families within a project. While most family templates are named according to the type of element they are intended to create, some templates also include one of the following descriptors after the family name:
- Wall based template
- Ceiling based template
- Floor slab based template
- Roof based template
- Line based template
- Surface based template
Wall, ceiling, floor, and roof based templates are collectively referred to as host-based templates. For host-based families, only elements of their specific host type can be placed within the project.
To select the appropriate template, review the details below to determine which one best suits your needs.
| Template | Description |
|---|---|
| Wall based template | Wall-based templates allow you to create components that are inserted into walls. For instance, doors and windows are wall components that can contain openings; placing such a component in a wall creates an opening in it. Examples include doors, windows, and light fixtures. Each template comes with a wall to demonstrate the interaction between the component and the host wall. |
| Ceiling based template | Ceiling-based templates are used to create components that are inserted into ceilings. Some components, like sprinkler systems or recessed lighting, create openings in the ceiling when placed. |
| Floor slab based template | Floor-based templates allow for the creation of components that are inserted into floors. Certain floor components, such as heating vents, can create openings in the floor upon placement. |
| Roof based template | Roof-based templates are designed for components that are inserted into roofs. Some roof components, like skylights and exhaust fans, create openings in the roof when placed. |
| Independent model | Independent templates are used for components that do not depend on a host. These components can be placed freely within the model and can be dimensioned relative to other independent or host-based elements. Examples include furniture, appliances, ducts, and fittings. |
| Adaptive template | Adaptive templates are utilized to create components that must adapt to unique contextual conditions. For example, adaptive components can be arranged in systems that follow user-defined constraints. When using an adaptive template, you will use the Conceptual Design Environment and a special family editor to create mass families. |
| Line based template | Line-based templates enable the creation of detail and model families that are defined using two pick and place points. |
| Surface based template | Face-based templates allow you to create families based on work planes, which can be modified according to their hosts. These families can be placed on any surface, regardless of orientation, and can undergo complex cuts within the host. For more details, refer to Create a family based on a work plane. |
| Special template |
Special templates are used when a family requires unique interactions with the model. These templates are exclusive to specific family types.
For example, the ‘Structural Framework’ template is only applicable for creating structural framework components. |
Do not limit template selection by category. Instead, choose the host type or intended behavior, and then adjust the category to match the required family type. Additionally, certain family types require specific templates to function correctly.
| To Create | Select from the Following Template Types |
|---|---|
| 2D Elements |
|
| 3D Elements with Specific Functions |
|
| 3D Elements with Host |
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| 3D Elements without Host |
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