Brox exports concepts in three formats: DWG, IFC, and PDF. Each serves a different purpose in the handoff to your architect or engineer. Here is what each format contains and when to use it.
DWG AutoCAD Drawing Format
DWG is the standard file format for AutoCAD and most CAD-compatible software. The Brox DWG export includes floor plans per level, site plan, and section cuts, drawn as 2D line work with layer organisation. Walls, openings, dimensions, and room labels are on separate layers for ease of editing.
- Use DWG when handing off to an architect using AutoCAD or AutoCAD-compatible software most do
- The file is a starting point, not a construction document your architect will develop it into a full set
- Layer structure follows standard architectural conventions so your architect can quickly orient to the file
IFC Industry Foundation Classes
IFC is the open standard for Building Information Modeling interchange. The Brox IFC export is a 3D building model with elements classified as walls, slabs, roofs, columns, and openings not just geometry, but typed elements.
- Use IFC when your architect or structural engineer is working in Revit, ArchiCAD, or another BIM platform
- IFC preserves element types and properties, allowing the recipient to assign materials, calculate areas, and run clash detection immediately
- IFC from Brox represents the massing concept detailed MEP, finishes, and connections are not modeled at this stage
PDF Presentation and Review
The PDF export is a formatted presentation package: concept overview, floor plans, sections, 3D massing view, and the metrics summary including cost estimate, FAR, floor areas, and energy flag. It is the right format for review meetings, client presentations, and authority pre-consultations.
- Use PDF when presenting the concept for review client, authority, or development committee
- The PDF includes the brief parameters and scoring rationale alongside the drawings
- PDF is read-only use DWG or IFC when the recipient needs to modify the model
Which Format to Request First
For most handoffs to an architect, start with DWG. It is universally readable, easy to modify, and gives your architect the spatial geometry they need to begin developing the design. Request IFC if your architect is working in a BIM environment and you want the concept integrated into their model from the start.
Tip
Always send a PDF alongside the DWG or IFC. The PDF gives context the brief, the scoring, and the intent of each concept that a raw drawing file does not convey. Your architect will produce better work if they understand what the concept was trying to achieve.
Export Your Concept in the Format You Need
Every Brox concept is available as DWG, IFC, and PDF. Export any or all before your architect meeting.
Export a Concept →
