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Motif Redefines BIM with a Smarter Cloud Collaboration Tool

by | Mar 28, 2025

SAN FRANCISCO, CA, Mar 28, 2025 – Motif, Inc. has launched a cloud-based platform designed for real-time collaboration among architecture and engineering teams. The platform integrates 2D and 3D workflows into one system, reducing inefficiencies in design review processes. By connecting previously isolated tools and workflows, it helps teams work effectively and with ease. Motif’s approach supports progress toward an integrated building information modeling (BIM) process.

“Today’s AEC workflows are burdened by fragmented data, rigid software, and disconnected collaboration tools that slow down decision-making,” says Amar Hanspal, CEO and co-founder of Motif. “Motif is redefining BIM with a focus on being open, intelligent, and collaborative, where BIM isn’t just about managing information—it’s about unlocking intelligence. We’re starting with intelligent collaboration—a platform that bridges gaps between teams, integrates with existing tools, and leverages AI to provide insights that drive better decisions. This is step one of many in building a smarter, more connected BIM future—one that removes friction, enhances creativity, and makes design intelligence truly accessible.”

Addressing the Industry’s Biggest Collaboration Challenges

Design professionals rely on tools like Revit, Rhino, and SketchUp. However, many reviewers and stakeholders cannot access these tools, making collaboration a difficult proposition. Existing whiteboard solutions lack critical features for architects (e.g., unit measurements, 3D viewing, etc.), while specialized BIM software is often inaccessible to key stakeholders who need to review designs. The result is delayed projects, miscommunication, and inefficient rework.

Motif is solving these challenges by introducing:

  • A Unified Collaboration Space: Architects, engineers, and project stakeholders can collaborate in one infinite canvas workspace that integrates 2D drawings, 3D models, images, sketches, and specifications.
  • Live Model Streaming & Integration: Direct connections to Revit and Rhino allow real-time updates without manual re-uploads, ensuring teams work with the latest designs.
  • 2D & 3D Sketching and Markups: Capture feedback on models and drawings with real-time commenting and sketching tools. Comments made in Motif appear in Revit and vice versa, enabling faster feedback cycles.
  • Smart Presentation Tools: Use frames and views to create focused, interactive design presentations without the hassle of exporting static slides and maintaining connections to evolving designs.
  • Web-Based Access: No software installation is required, making it accessible to all stakeholders regardless of technical expertise. This eliminates buying expensive CAD software licenses for team members who only review designs.

Motif is built so project teams can review designs, whether working in the office or remotely. Unlike other tools, Motif runs in a web browser, unlike other tools that require expensive software or complex processes. This allows anyone to join design discussions without needing CAD or BIM expertise.

“We designed Motif to work the way architects and engineers do—bringing together 2D and 3D content in an infinite canvas, enabling seamless collaboration, and ensuring every stakeholder has the ability to contribute meaningfully to the design process,” continued Hanspal.

A New Era of Design Collaboration Begins

Motif introduces a new approach to design review and presentation for the built environment. It combines general collaboration tools with specialized review technical features, along with integration into design software. This integration supports design teams by maintaining their workflows while improving communication between technical designers and stakeholders. The result is a connected design ecosystem without interrupting established processes.

“Motif simplifies how we collaborate across teams,” said Bill Carney, design technology leader and principal at DLR Group. “Instead of juggling screenshots, PDFs, and disconnected markups, everything is now in one place—live, structured, and effortless. Instead of creating work-arounds to collaborate we can focus on decisions and feedback in real time. Motif has made coordination faster and eliminated so many back-and-forths.”

Motif’s vision for BIM doesn’t stop at collaboration. Motif 1.0 is the first step toward building the future of data-driven modeling, automated documentation, and AI-powered insights – with speed, scalability, and openness at the core.

Source: Motif

About Motif

Motif Systems, Inc. is building the next-generation software platform for the modern built environment. Founded in 2023 by Amar Hanspal and Brian Mathews, along with founding employees of Revit. Motif enables seamless, real-time collaboration for architecture, engineering, and construction professionals. Its features include an infinite canvas for real-time collaboration, live-streaming from design tools like Revit and Rhino, and support for 2D and 3D sketching and markups. Motif aims to streamline communication and coordination among stakeholders, reducing the reliance on disconnected tools and enhancing decision-making processes. Motif has raised $46 million in funding led by Redpoint Ventures and CapitalG. Motif focuses on improving collaboration within the AEC sector through innovative technology solutions.