Spatial relationships in Layer allow users to automatically connect model elements based on their physical location within a Revit model. This type of relationship helps users understand how model objects, such as furniture or equipment, are related to spatial elements like rooms, areas, or spaces. Spatial relationships are available only for Revit model categories that include spatial geometry.

Feature overview

A spatial relationship is added and configured through the Relationship field. When this field type is used, Layer calculates which model elements are spatially contained within or intersect a defined space. Once the relationship is created, it updates as synced model data changes.

How to create a spatial relationship

1. Open a Revit model category that supports spatial data, such as Rooms or Areas.

2. Hit the Plus (+) button in the top right corner to create a new field, or select Edit Fields and create a new field type.

3. Choose Relationship as the field type.

4. In the Relationship setup dialog, set the Relationship Type to Spatial.

5. Select the model category you want to relate to, such as Furniture, Equipment, or Fixtures.

6. (Optional) Define filter criteria to include only certain elements, such as furniture on a specific level or in a particular phase.

7. Choose which properties from the related category to display in the relationship table, such as Level, Phase, or Family Name.

8. Click Create Field to save the configuration.

After the field is created, each spatial element automatically lists the model elements contained within its boundaries. The table updates dynamically as the model changes, reflecting any modifications in element location or category data.

Tips and troubleshooting

Spatial relationships are available only for model categories with valid spatial geometry. If no related elements appear, verify that both the primary and related categories are spatially compatible and that the Revit model is synchronized with Layer.

The following Revit model categories are currently able to be spatially related to model categories like Rooms, Areas, or Spaces. If you need additional model categories, please contact Support.

• Assemblies

• Casework

• Communication Devices

• Data Devices

• Doors

• Electrical Equipment

• Electrical Fixtures

• Fire Alarm Devices

• Fire Protection

• Furniture Systems

• Furniture

• Generic Models

• Lightning Devices

• Lightning Fixtures

• Mechanical equipment

• Nurse Call Devices

• Pipe Accessories

• Plumbing Equipment

• Plumbing Fixtures

• Railings

• Security Devices

• Specialty Equipment

• Telephone Devices

• Windows

Ceilings, Walls and Floors are not currently able to be spatially related to rooms.

For large models, spatial relationship fields may take additional time to process due to the geometric calculations required. Use the Edit Visible Fields option to modify which properties appear in the table without reconfiguring the relationship.