WORKFLOW GUIDE · SKETCHUP + LUMION
Import SketchUp Models into Lumion
LiveSync (real-time) · File Export · Troubleshooting Common Problems
Importing models from SketchUp into Lumion is the most common workflow in architectural visualization. Understanding this process — and avoiding the most common mistakes — will save you significant time on every project.
Method 1: LiveSync
Real-time sync — recommended for active design. Changes in SketchUp update in Lumion instantly.
Method 2: File Export
Export as .dae Collada file — use when LiveSync is not available or for final render setup.
Video: Lumion 2025 LiveSync Setup Guide
Lumion Pro 2025 Getting Started — includes LiveSync setup and import process
Method 1: Lumion LiveSync — Recommended
LiveSync is a free plugin creating a live connection between SketchUp and Lumion. Supports SketchUp 2020 through 2025 and Lumion 10.3 and newer.
Download from lumion.com/livesync or Trimble Extension Warehouse. Install with SketchUp closed. Reopen SketchUp — Lumion toolbar appears.
Create a new scene or open an existing project. Leave it open in the background.
Click the play icon in the Lumion toolbar. Your model appears in Lumion immediately. Lumion confirms the connection.
Modify geometry in SketchUp → updates in Lumion instantly. Apply Lumion PBR materials in Lumion. Adjust cameras and effects in Lumion while continuing to model in SketchUp.
Method 2: File Export (Collada .dae)
Step 1 — Prepare Your Model
Before exporting, clean up your SketchUp model:
- Purge unused items: Window → Model Info → Statistics → Purge Unused
- Fix reversed faces: View → Face Style → Monochrome. Dark blue faces = reversed → right-click → Reverse Faces
- Check units: Window → Model Info → Units → set to Meters or Centimeters
Step 2 — Export as Collada
File → Export → 3D Model → choose Collada File (.dae). In export options: check Export two-sided faces, Triangulate all faces, Export texture maps.
Step 3 — Import into Lumion
Lumion Import panel → Import Model → navigate to your .dae file → position using Lumion’s move, rotate, and scale tools.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Materials look wrong | Reassign materials manually in Lumion Materials panel after import |
| Wrong model scale | Set SketchUp to Meters before export, use scale controls in Lumion import |
| Missing geometry / holes | Fix reversed faces in SketchUp Monochrome view → Reverse Faces |
| Very slow import | Reduce polygon count, resize textures to max 2048×2048px |
Video: LiveSync Installation Step by Step
How to install Lumion LiveSync for SketchUp — complete step-by-step walkthrough
Pro Tips for Best Results
📦 Free SketchUp Models Ready for Lumion Import
Interior furniture · Exterior components · Nature elements · People & vehicles
All tested with Lumion 2024 and 2025 — organized by category
