Abstract. In the current digital age is it legitimate to ask the key question: the plan is dead, or is it? The practice and teaching of architectural design and representations has undergone revolutionary changes since the introduction of computer Aided Architectural Design (CAAD) in the seventies followed by the personal computer (PC).  Hand sketching, 2D drawings and physical models are only examples of the well established / understood and used tools amongst building designers. The current pervasive use of digital tools, in particular 3D tools has lead to new methods not only of representation but also of design. This research paper critically examines how digital tools, in particular 3D design tools, are shaping and re-establishing new design and representation methodologies that are questioning established design practices. The emphasis will be put on concept and detail design using sketchup as a 3D tool. Observations and analysis of design studio projects across the 4 year architectural curriculum and examples from practice are used to demonstrate the emergence of new design methodologies. The paper also demonstrates how the interface and easy uptake of the 3D digital tools impacts on its use, especially at the conceptual stages of design. 