openBIM · Blender + Bonsai

Open and explore a BIM

A practical guide to installing the tools and exploring shared IFC and Blender files.

Install the tools

If your package specifies exact versions, use those: a prepared scene may need the same environment. To start from an IFC, choose a stable Blender version compatible with Bonsai.

Download Blender for your operating system from its official website and install it. Download Blender.
Open Blender: Edit → Preferences → Get Extensions. Allow online access if prompted; search for Bonsai and select Install.
Check that Bonsai is enabled and that File offers Open IFC Project.

Official Bonsai installation guide · Supported Blender releases

IFC and Blender: two files

Download the complete authorised package into one folder, retain its names and revision, and work on a copy. Your project download link stays in the private area.

File .ifc

In Blender with Bonsai, choose File → Open IFC Project and select the IFC. Check the loaded filename in Project Overview → Project Info.

File .blend

Open it through File → Open to inspect the prepared scene and views. A .blend alone does not guarantee loaded or current IFC data: also check the associated IFC project and package instructions.

IFC and Blender saves are separate. Before editing BIM data, ensure the correct IFC is open; preserve any scene settings separately. Official opening and saving guidance.

Navigate the model

In the 3D view, drag with the middle mouse button to orbit, scroll to zoom, and Shift plus middle mouse to pan. Without a mouse, use the on-screen axes, magnifier and hand controls.

If the model disappears: View → Frame All. For a selected element: View → Frame Selected. Shortcuts act on the panel under the pointer.

Use Spatial Decomposition to explore floors and elements, hide or isolate them without deletion. Existing-condition and proposed-design views depend on the actual package contents. Official IFC exploration guide.

If something is missing

Check the versions, complete folder and active IFC filename. If geometry is visible but properties or relationships are missing, do not assume the Blender scene contains the BIM model. Bonsai troubleshooting.

For help, send a private-area comment with your software versions, package revision and the step that fails. Attach a screenshot, avoiding unrelated private information.

Official sources consulted on 29 October 2026. This describes stable installation; each project package governs its versions and available views.