Why You Cannot Edit a PDF Directly and What to Do Instead

Answer

Short answer:

Rendair AI tools are designed to manipulate pixel-based images, whereas PDFs are often document containers that hold vector lines and text. To edit a design using AI tools, you must first convert the PDF into a standard image format like JPG or PNG.

Overview

Architectural documentation often relies on PDFs because they keep lines sharp and file sizes low using vector data. However, generative AI models operate differently. They function as a "digital canvas" that predicts and paints pixels rather than reading mathematical lines.

When you attempt to load a PDF directly into an image editing interface, the system may not know how to flatten the layers or which page to prioritize. Converting the file to an image creates a single, flat surface that the AI can understand, modify, and enhance without errors.

How it works

To prepare your file for Rendair AI, you simply need to change the format from a document to an image.

Option 1: Export from your software

If you have the original file open in Revit, AutoCAD, or SketchUp, use the "Export" function. Select JPG or PNG as the file type. This usually yields the highest quality result.

Option 2: Convert an existing PDF

If a client sent you a PDF, you can open it in a standard viewer (like Adobe Acrobat or Preview) and use "Export To" or "Save As" to create a JPG.

Option 3: The screenshot method

For quick iterations, simply open the PDF on your screen, zoom in to the desired view, and take a high-resolution screenshot. This is often the fastest way to get a workable base image into Rendair.

Capabilities

Once your PDF is converted to an image, you gain full access to Rendair’s editing suite.

• Select and modify: Use a brush to highlight specific areas (like a wall or window) and prompt the AI to change materials or structures.

• Remove objects: Erase unwanted elements like cars or people from a site plan or perspective.

• Insert elements: Add landscaping, furniture, or context to a bare elevation.

• Upscale: If your converted image is low resolution, you can increase it to 4K or higher before starting your edits.

Inputs and outputs

Inputs

• Recommended: JPG, PNG, TIFF, WEBP.

• Supported but less flexible: Single-page PDFs (often accepted for base generation but restricted for complex editing).

Outputs

• Format: All edits and generations are exported as high-resolution raster images (JPG/PNG).

When to use this

• Client elevations: When a client sends a 2D PDF elevation that needs realistic material visualization.

• Floor plans: When you need to turn a black-and-white CAD PDF into a textured, furnished layout.

• Site context: When you have a PDF map of a location and want to visualize potential massing options.

Limitations or notes

• Resolution matters: When converting a PDF to an image, ensure you export at a high pixel density (at least 1920x1080). A low-quality screenshot will limit the AI's ability to "see" details.

• Flattened layers: Once converted to an image, you lose the ability to turn CAD layers on or off. Make sure your PDF view shows exactly what you want the AI to see before converting.

• Text handling: AI treats text as visual shapes. If your PDF has large labels or dimensions, the AI might try to interpret them as physical objects. It is often better to hide dimensions before exporting.