An architect brings a Matterport E57 point cloud into Autodesk Revit by first importing and indexing the E57 file in Autodesk ReCap, saving the resulting RCP project or RCS scan files, and then linking that point cloud into Revit. Revit does not directly link E57 files through its standard point-cloud workflow.
At Invision Studio, our Matterport 3D Tour Photographers recommend this process for architects who need a measurable reference for documenting existing buildings, planning renovations, or coordinating design work.This guide explains the workflow, common problems, and important accuracy considerations.
Key Takeaways
- Convert before linking: Use Autodesk ReCap to prepare Matterport E57 data for Revit.
- Link the correct format: Revit supports indexed RCP and RCS point-cloud files.
- Check alignment: Verify scale, levels, orientation, and project coordinates before modeling.
- Model separately: A point cloud does not automatically become Revit walls, floors, or other BIM elements.
- Validate critical dimensions: Confirm project tolerances and independently check measurements that affect design or construction.
Table of Contents
- What Is a Matterport E57 Point Cloud?
- What Do You Need Before Starting?
- How to Import Matterport E57 Data into Revit
- How to Fix Common Import Problems
- How Architects Use the Linked Point Cloud
- Frequently Asked Questions
What Is a Matterport E57 Point Cloud?
An E57 file is a standardized format used to exchange three-dimensional scan data. A Matterport E57 export contains spatial point data representing captured building surfaces, with additional information depending on the export.Architects can use this data as a reference for existing walls, floors, ceilings, openings, and visible building features.
However, an E57 file is not a Revit model. It does not contain native Revit families, parametric walls, room objects, or construction documentation.At Invision Studio, our Matterport 3D Tour Photographers recommend distinguishing between three deliverables:
| Deliverable | Primary purpose |
|---|---|
| Matterport virtual tour | Interactive visual exploration of a property |
| E57 point cloud | Spatial reference data for compatible software |
| Revit BIM model | Modeled building elements used for design and documentation |
These deliverables can complement one another, but they are not interchangeable.
What Do You Need Before Starting?
Before importing a Matterport point cloud into Revit, prepare:
- An available Matterport E57 export: Confirm export eligibility, ordering requirements, and access for the specific space.
- Autodesk ReCap: Use a version and license that support the required E57 import and indexing workflow.
- Autodesk Revit: Confirm point-cloud linking support in your installed version.
- Adequate computer resources: Large point clouds require sufficient storage, memory, and graphics capability.
- A project positioning plan: Decide how the scan will relate to project levels, origin, orientation, and any established survey coordinates.
Our Matterport 3D Tour Photographers recommend confirming deliverables and intended modeling tolerances before capture, particularly for renovation projects with dimension-sensitive work.
How to Import Matterport E57 Data into Revit
Step 1: Download and organize the E57 export
Obtain the E57 file associated with the captured Matterport space.Store the original export in a clearly labeled project folder. Keep a separate location for ReCap processing and Revit-linked deliverables.Check that the download completed successfully before starting. An incomplete file can cause import errors or missing data.
Step 2: Import the E57 file into Autodesk ReCap
Open Autodesk ReCap and create a scan project. Choose the option to import scan files, select the E57 file, and follow the prompts.Exact interface labels vary by software version.ReCap processes and indexes the scan data into a format compatible with downstream Autodesk workflows. Processing time depends on the dataset size and your hardware.
Do not assume additional registration is always necessary. Inspect the imported data first, then determine whether alignment or cleanup is needed.
Step 3: Inspect and save the indexed point cloudReview the point cloud in ReCap before opening Revit.Check for:
- Misaligned surfaces or duplicated geometry.
- Missing coverage in important areas.
- Unwanted exterior points or isolated noise.
- Unexpected orientation or scale.
Save the ReCap project. The resulting RCP file references associated scan data, commonly stored as RCS files.Keep the RCP and its dependent files together. Moving only the RCP can break the project’s references.
Step 4: Link the point cloud into Revit
Open the Revit project and navigate to:
Insert → Point CloudSelect the RCP project or an appropriate RCS file, choose a positioning method, and complete the link.
Revit links the point cloud as a reference; it does not convert it into native building elements.
At Invision Studio, our Matterport 3D Tour Photographers recommend reviewing the linked scan immediately in both a floor plan and a 3D view.
Step 5: Verify positioning, scale, and elevation
Choose positioning based on the project’s coordinate strategy—not simply whichever option places the cloud on screen.For an initial review, center-to-center positioning may be convenient. For coordinated projects, use a deliberate origin or shared-coordinate workflow appropriate to the available reference information.
Do not assume Matterport data is survey-georeferenced.
Compare several known dimensions, inspect floor elevations, and confirm the building’s orientation. Resolve discrepancies before detailed modeling begins.
Step 6: Configure views and begin modeling
Use Revit’s visibility controls, view range, sections, and 3D section boxes to isolate useful portions of the cloud.Create levels and grids, then model walls, floors, roofs, openings, and other required elements against the reference data.A staged approach—one level or zone at a time—usually makes review easier.
How to Fix Common Import Problems
| Problem | Likely issue or next check |
|---|---|
| Revit will not select the E57 file | Import and index it in ReCap first |
| The linked cloud is missing | Check file paths, dependencies, visibility, and view extents |
| The cloud appears at the wrong elevation | Review positioning and project levels |
| Measurements appear incorrect | Verify units, scale, and known reference dimensions |
| Navigation is slow | Reduce visible data, use section boxes, and review hardware capacity |
| Surfaces appear doubled | Inspect scan alignment in ReCap |
Our Matterport 3D Tour Photographers recommend resolving alignment and file-management problems before committing significant time to BIM modeling.
How Architects Use the Linked Point Cloud
A linked Matterport point cloud can support existing-condition documentation, renovation planning, spatial coordination, and visual comparison between modeled and captured conditions.
Its usefulness depends on capture coverage, site conditions, processing quality, and the project’s required accuracy.
Concealed services, obstructed surfaces, and fine details may require additional investigation. For structural decisions, fabrication, or other tolerance-sensitive tasks, establish suitable verification methods rather than relying on the point cloud alone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Revit import Matterport E57 files directly?
No. Revit’s standard point-cloud linking workflow uses indexed RCP or RCS files. Prepare the E57 data in Autodesk ReCap first.
Does the import automatically create a BIM model?
No. The point cloud provides reference geometry. Native Revit elements must be modeled separately or created through an additional modeling workflow.
Should I link an RCP or RCS file?
Use the RCP when you want to reference the organized ReCap project and its associated scans. An RCS may be suitable for an individual indexed scan dataset.
How can Invision Studio help?
Invision Studio can help you discuss Matterport capture requirements and intended deliverables. Our Matterport 3D Tour Photographers recommend defining your Revit workflow, coverage needs, and accuracy expectations before scheduling the scan.
