Here are five recommendations for those starting to work with Python and looking to incorporate it into their Revit workflow.
Python is one of the most widely used programming languages globally. It’s employed in software development of all kinds, from web applications to games and scientific tools. Known for both its flexibility and readable syntax, Python is ideal for programming beginners.
In architecture, and especially for those working with Dynamo and Revit, mastering Python is a great advantage. First, it enables the creation of custom scripts to automate repetitive tasks and processes via Dynamo, significantly expanding the platform's native capabilities. It also provides professionals with greater control over a central tool for collaborative BIM-based projects.
Below, I’ll share a series of tips for those beginning to work with Python who want to add it to their Revit workflows.
Five Python Tips for BIM Workflows
Python can be a valuable ally for parametric design tools and BIM modeling. If you're a professional looking to leverage Python to create custom scripts that help optimize your work with Dynamo and Revit, here are five tips you might find helpful:
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Learn Python Basics. Before diving into writing code for Dynamo and Revit, it’s essential to have a solid Python foundation and be familiar with its syntax, data structures, functions, and modules. There are numerous online resources for learning Python from scratch, including courses, books, and tutorials. A good place to start is Python for Beginners.
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Get Familiar with the Dynamo and Revit APIs. The API (Application Programming Interface) is a set of functions and methods that let you interact with an application from another program. Both Dynamo and Revit have their own APIs, which you can access through their respective websites. The Dynamo API is written in C#, but you can access it from Python using the clr (Common Language Runtime) module. The Revit API is written in .NET, accessible from Python via the RevitServices module, included in Dynamo.
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Use the Built-In Code Editor in Dynamo. An easy way to start writing Python scripts for Dynamo and Revit is to use the code editor built into Dynamo. Simply drag a Python Script node onto your canvas and double-click it to open the editor. You can write your Python code there and run it directly from Dynamo. The editor also offers debugging options, such as displaying error messages and variable values.
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Leverage External Python Libraries. Another benefit of using Python to automate processes in Dynamo and Revit is access to a wide range of external libraries that extend Python’s capabilities. For instance, you can use the numpy library for advanced mathematical operations, the pandas library for handling tabular data, or matplotlib for creating charts and visualizations. You can install these libraries using the pip package manager or the Anaconda virtual environment.
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Create Your Own Custom Nodes with Python. If you want to go a step further and create custom nodes with Python, you can use the PyRevit tool, which allows you to build extensions for Revit using Python. With PyRevit, you can create nodes that integrate into Revit’s user interface and directly communicate with the Revit API without going through Dynamo. PyRevit also provides its own code editor and version control system for your extensions.
These are just a few tips to get started, but there’s a wealth of possibilities to explore as you deepen your Python skills. By mastering these tools, you can transform your Revit workflow, reduce manual tasks, and open doors to new design possibilities and efficiencies. Whether you’re creating simple automation scripts or developing custom nodes, Python offers endless opportunities to enhance your work in BIM and stay at the cutting edge of architectural technology.
