Sketching the World: HUSarchitecture's Creative Journey in the ALA Napkin Sketch Contest

At HUSarchitecture, we are tapping into our creativity and joining the rich history of architect napkin sketches. Recently, three of our talented team members embraced the challenge of the Association of Licensed Architects (ALA) Napkin Sketch Contest, where the theme was "The Beauty and Inspiration of Travel.” 

From New Haven, CT, to Cordoba, Spain, our team’s sketches captured the spirit of architecture’s role in connecting us to the world. It’s not just about function—it’s about the experience, the emotions, and the memories built within these spaces.

Jan Concepcion: 

Jan created a sketch-collage of the locations he traveled to this year, the people he shared these spaces with and the feelings underlying these experiences. Can you pick out iconic arches at the Mosque-Cathedral in Cordoba, Spain? LA’s Palm Trees? The Metropol Parasol in Seville, Spain? The St. Louis Arch? NYC’s Time Square? Jan’s brother sleeping at the Maui airport? And the artist himself, sketching it all?!

Mac Carroll: 

Mac drew the Peabody Museum in New Haven, CT. This French Gothic revival building with intricate brickwork and interior arches, houses scores of Dinosaurs. In 2023 it was renovated, achieving LEED Gold! 

Chyanne Husar: 

When Chyanne traveled China, she found large scale demolition projects captivating. Chyanne sketched the demolition of the Robert Taylor Homes as depicted in “Out of the Loop: Vernacular Architecture Forum”. She chose this because of our firm’s connection to the Chicago Housing Authority and its proximity to our office. The shift in public housing away from densely populated communities is an important conversation. In many ways we are still trying to solve the void and we keep working on that problem as an office and travel is a way to explore how other communities find solutions.

These sketches reflect the passion and ingenuity that our staff brings to every project at HUSarchitecture. Underneath our inspections, spreadsheets and reports is a whole bunch of creative talent! 

Wish our team luck in the ALA’s Napkin Sketch Contest! Winners will be announced October 21, 2024.