Freehand drawing enables visualization of an idea in the form of a sketch. It is also a universal language designers use to communicate with other participants of a project. That is why freehand drawing ought to be an inherent element of a design process, especially in the first conceptual phase. In order to support this thesis I describe, using my work experience as a basis, the architectural and urban charrette workshop’s method, which is a design process in a nutshell. Among others I try to answer the following questions: To what extent should computer programs be used in the first design phase of a project? Where are the boundaries between freehand and computer drawing? Research results can be considered as general guidelines for a freehand drawing curriculum.

Freehand drawing enables visualization of an idea in the form of a sketch. It is also a universal language designers use to communicate with other participants of a project. That is why freehand drawing ought to be an inherent element of a design process, especially in the first conceptual phase. In order to support this thesis I describe, using my work experience as a basis, the architectural and urban charrette workshop’s method, which is a design process in a nutshell. Among others I try to answer the following questions: To what extent should computer programs be used in the first design phase of a project? Where are the boundaries between freehand and computer drawing? Research results can be considered as general guidelines for a freehand drawing curriculum.