Sometimes you want to ignore SketchUp colors and do a "White Model" render. In Artlantis, you can use the "Material > Shift" filter, but the plugin makes this easier: Before exporting, give all walls a generic "White Paint" texture in SketchUp. When the plugin exports that texture, you have a clean white base to paint with Artlantis shaders later.
The Artlantis Plugin for SketchUp is essential for the aesthete.
If you are an architect who needs a render now and prefers simple drag-and-drop lighting over deep node-based compositing, this plugin is your best friend. It bridges the gap between the drafting table and the art gallery.
However, if you are a power user who wants every single texture and component to port over perfectly without lifting a finger, you might find the process tedious.
Score: 8/10 It loses a point for texture translation issues, but gains massive points for speed. It turns the daunting task of rendering into a process that feels, dare I say, fun.
The Artlantis export plugin for SketchUp is a dedicated tool developed by Abvent to streamline the transfer of 3D models into Artlantis for high-end architectural visualization. Key Features
The plugin serves as a bridge, ensuring that the heavy lifting done in SketchUp is accurately translated for rendering:
Native File Export: Converts SketchUp models directly into Artlantis’s native .atl format. artlantis plugin sketchup
Scene & Camera Sync: Automatically transfers your SketchUp Scenes as "cameras" in Artlantis, preserving your carefully planned viewpoints.
Layer & Material Organization: Maintains the hierarchy of layers and materials established in SketchUp, allowing you to quickly assign photorealistic shaders in Artlantis.
Use Reference File: This powerful feature allows you to update your SketchUp geometry (e.g., moving a wall) and re-export it without losing the lighting, materials, and objects already set up in your Artlantis project.
IFC Interoperability: Since Artlantis 2021, the software also supports IFC import, offering a more flexible BIM-oriented workflow alongside the standard plugin. Compatibility & Versions Exporting a project from SketchUp 2020 to Artlantis
The Artlantis plugin for SketchUp is a specialized bridge designed for architects and designers to move their 3D models into a high-end rendering environment. It transforms SketchUp's quick "sketch-like" models into photorealistic presentations with professional lighting and texture controls. Key Features & Capabilities
Direct .atl Export: The plugin allows you to export your SketchUp project directly into the native Artlantis .atl format, which is optimized for its rendering engine.
"Use Reference File" Workflow: One of its strongest features is the ability to update your SketchUp model and re-export it without losing your previous Artlantis settings (materials, lights, etc.). Sometimes you want to ignore SketchUp colors and
High-Speed Rendering: Artlantis is known for being a fast, CPU-based engine that allows beginners and experts alike to simulate realistic environments quickly.
Media Catalog Integration: Models imported into Artlantis can utilize a massive library of 3D objects (furniture, vegetation) and specialized shaders like 3D grass. Typical Workflow Unable to export sketchup model to lumion or artlantis
The Artlantis plugin for SketchUp is a dedicated export tool that bridges the gap between your 3D modeling and final photorealistic rendering. It allows you to transfer your SketchUp geometry, textures, and camera views directly into Artlantis while maintaining a link between the two programs for easy updates. Core Functionality
Direct Export: The plugin allows you to export projects into the native Artlantis .atl format directly from the SketchUp interface.
Reference File Feature: One of its most powerful tools is the "Use Reference File" function. If you modify your SketchUp model after you've already started working in Artlantis (adding shaders, lights, etc.), you can import the updated model and Artlantis will automatically re-apply all your previous settings to the new geometry.
Native Compatibility: Newer versions of Artlantis (like Artlantis RT²) can also import .skp files directly, but using the dedicated plugin often provides better control over how materials and layers are handled. How to Use the SketchUp to Artlantis Workflow
Installation: Download and install the plugin version corresponding to your SketchUp version (e.g., SketchUp 2022, 2023) from the Artlantis Downloads page. SketchUp scenes become Artlantis cameras instantly
Preparation: In SketchUp, organize your model by layers or materials, as Artlantis uses these to group surfaces. Export: Go to File > Export > 3D Model. Select Artlantis (.atl) as the file type.
Initial Import: Open Artlantis and load the .atl file. You can then begin adding shaders from the Artlantis Media Catalog or adjusting sun and light settings.
Updating: To bring in changes from SketchUp, save your modified SketchUp file, then in Artlantis, use the File > Use Reference File menu to merge the new geometry with your existing render setup. Tips for Best Results
Scale Factor: Ensure you enter the correct scale factor during import to avoid issues with texture sizing and lighting.
Texture Management: Place your SketchUp file in its own dedicated folder before exporting. Artlantis saves texture images as separate files, and this prevents them from cluttering your workspace.
3D Warehouse: You can download high-quality objects from the SketchUp 3D Warehouse and import them into your Artlantis library for more detailed scenes. Exporting SketchUp file to Atlantis (atl)
SketchUp scenes become Artlantis cameras instantly. Render day, night, section, and aerial views all at once – ideal for presentations or competition boards.
However, no translation is perfect. The plugin acts like a middleman who occasionally drops the nuance.
Many users try to skip the plugin by exporting Collada (.dae) or FBX files. While technically possible, this is a mistake. Here is why the dedicated Artlantis plugin (often called the "SketchUp export plugin" or "ArchiCAD & SketchUp exchange") is non-negotiable: