Sketching the Spirit of Architecture – Arkeytect for Future at Binh Truoc Hall

That morning, the sunlight gently filtered through the old tamarind trees as I arrived at Nha Hoi Binh Truoc, a century-old building nestled in the heart of Bien Hoa. Sketchbook in hand, I found my spot beside the weathered walls, feeling both nervous and excited. It was the start of a special day — a sketching workshop organized by the Dong Nai Architects Association and the Young Architects Club, where I joined other young architecture enthusiasts to capture the spirit of a historical landmark.

As the city slowly awakened, our pencils began to move. Each of us tried to translate what we saw — the aged textures, the warm sunlight dancing across the façade, the quiet dignity of the space — into lines and shades. There was something magical about drawing on site, about feeling the structure breathe as we observed every proportion and rhythm in real time.

For many of us, this was the first time sketching outdoors at an actual heritage site. It wasn’t just about technique anymore — it was about connection: between people and architecture, between the present and the echoes of the past. Every stroke taught me something new about patience, perception, and the beauty of imperfection.

By the end of the session, our sketchbooks were filled with stories — not just drawings. We laughed, shared our experiences, and admired each other’s perspectives. That morning reminded me why I fell in love with architecture in the first place: it’s not only about designing spaces, but also about learning to see the world with empathy and curiosity.

I’m deeply grateful to the Dong Nai Architects Association and the Young Architects Club for making this experience possible. It was more than just a workshop — it was a moment of inspiration, one that continues to shape how I see, draw, and dream about the future of Vietnamese architecture.