How to Import 3DM City Models into Rhino (Step-by-Step)

Why 3DM Format?

3DM is Rhino's native format. Unlike OBJ imports, 3DM files open with:

• ✅ Pre-organized layers (Buildings, Roads, Water, Green, Terrain)
• ✅ Materials already assigned
• ✅ Correct scale and units
• ✅ Ready for rendering

Step 1: Download Your 3DM

• Go to [archikek.com/create](/create)
• Search your location
• Switch to 3D Mode
• Select 3DM format
• Choose your theme colors
• Click Generate 3DM

Step 2: Open in Rhino

Simply double-click the .3dm file or:

• Open Rhino
• File → Open
• Select your downloaded .3dm file

That's it! No import settings needed.

Step 3: Check Your Layers

In the Layers panel, you'll see:

• Terrain - Ground plane
• Buildings - All structures with heights
• Roads - Street network
• Water - Rivers, lakes, sea
• Green - Parks, forests, gardens

Toggle visibility as needed for your presentation.

Step 4: Render

The materials are already set up. Just:

• Set your view angle
• Choose a render engine (V-Ray, Enscape, or Rhino Render)
• Hit render

Recommended Render Settings

For quick preview:

• Rhino Render
• Resolution: 1920x1080
• Quality: Good

For presentation:

• V-Ray or Enscape
• Add HDRI environment
• Enable shadows

Pro Tips

Adjust Building Colors

• Select Buildings layer
• Open Materials panel
• Modify diffuse color

Add Context

• Import your building model
• Place on the terrain
• Buildings provide instant context

Section Views

• Use ClippingPlane for site sections
• Great for site analysis diagrams

Troubleshooting

Model too small?

Check units: File → Properties → Units. Should be Meters.

Materials not showing?

Switch to Rendered viewport mode (not Wireframe).

Performance slow?

Hide layers you don't need. Water and Green are often not needed for massing studies.

Download your first 3DM model →