My name is Derek Freand and I am a Project Architect for Ross & Baruzzini. I have been with R&B for 11 months but have used Revit dating back to 2003. Here at R&B we are getting the Revit programs started. Architecturally we have done two projects to CD completion, but we also use Revit as a modeling tool to represent proposed material layouts showing 3D views and renderings. During my time of using Revit I have completed nearly 30 projects. It is a very valuable tool for our industry and will most likely be around for quite some time.

Over the past few years of using Revit I have come across several people that have said, "Sure, Revit is great for the 3D capabilities, but you cannot make 2D details as well as you can in AutoCAD." I have learned that is untrue, because it is easy to detail in Revit if you just get used to it.

First of all, Revit has a "Drafting" tab that I use frequently. For continuous lines Revit has thin, medium, and wide. I have found that using these three linetypes in a detail is enough. Obviously, you will need to use hidden, center, and other lines but they are there as well. Hatching in Revit is called a Filled Region and is very easy to use. Actually much easier than CAD. Revit has one text size when detailing. If you decide to change the scale of the detail later, it is as simple as changing the scale button at the bottom of the frame. The text, lines, and filled regions, etc., automatically update per the new scale. Also, when cutting a wall section you can add very detailed information in that section. The section will show 3D components exactly how you have drawn them and then you can add insulation, gypsum board, J-mold, blocking. etc. Revit comes with many 2D drafting components such as metal studs, steel angles, channels, CMU blocks of all sizes, furniture, and many other items. As mentioned above making 2D details is easy and you will be happy with the end product.