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How to: Exchange opening requests via IFC and manage display colors

Modified: 15 May 2026 Stabicad
Not version-specific
Stabicad
Phase A: Exchanging Recesses via IFC Although exchanging recesses is often handled via the specific Openings Manager app, you can also manage this traditionally using IFC files.
  1. Open a 3D view in Revit and ensure that only the recesses are visible.
  2. Export this view to IFC. In the IFC Export settings, check the option Export only elements visible in view and send the file to the structural engineer.
  3. Once you receive the approved response model (.IFC or .RVT) back from the structural engineer, link it into your model.
Phase B: Checking the Status of Recesses (Constructor Status) When you have loaded the response model, you can instantly read the current status of the recesses based on their colors. These colors are driven by the parameter Constructor Status:
  • Orange (0): Default / Pending.
  • Green (1): Approved.
  • Red (2): Declined.
  • Green (3): Approved, but modified by the structural engineer.
  • Gray (4): Combined.
(Tip: Use the Element IDs via Ribbon > Manage > IDs of selection to communicate with the structural engineer about specific declined recesses).
Phase C: Changing Default Family Colors (Advanced) If you want to permanently change the default color (e.g., the default orange) of a recess family for your company, you can edit the specific Openings for MEP family via the Revit Family Editor. Because a recess consists of both 3D geometry and 2D detail elements, you must adjust this in two places:
For the 3D Display (3D/Section views):
  1. Select the family and click Edit Family in the ribbon.
  2. In the Project Browser, go to Families > Generic Models and double-click the subcategory (e.g., GeometryRound).
  3. In the Type Properties window, change the material for the RecessDisplayMaterial parameter to a material with your desired color.
For the 2D Display (Floor Plans):
  1. While still in the Family Editor, navigate in the Project Browser to Families > Detail Items > Filled Region.
  2. Double-click the color you want to change (e.g., Solid Fill - Orange) and change the color in the Foreground Pattern Color field.
  3. Select Load into Project and Close to apply the changes to your project.
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