InktoberArchitecture: Why Architects Still Need to Sketch in a Digital World
It’s time to dust off the desk, grab your favourite pen, and roll out the trace because InktoberArchitecture is here!In this episode of What the RFI?, host Matt Brennan welcomes back Nathan Taylor, Building Envelope Consultant, artist, and creator of the global sketching movement InktoberArchitecture. Together, they dive deep into how hand sketching connects creativity, communication, and construction in an increasingly digital and AI-driven profession.This episode explores why architects, designers, and students are rediscovering sketching as a tool for problem-solving, storytelling, and learning. Nathan shares the origins of the challenge, his favourite prompts from this year, and why drawing, even on a napkin, can change how we design and think.In this episode, you’ll learn:The story behind InktoberArchitecture and how to participateWhy hand sketching still matters in the era of BIM, Revit, and AIHow a quick field sketch can solve problems faster than an RFIThe power of community and visual storytelling in architecturePractical tips for getting started: tools, pens, prompts, and mindsetWhether you’re an architect, student, or creative professional, this episode will inspire you to slow down, draw more, and reconnect with the craft that started it all.Learn more and join the challenge:👉 BuildingScape Blog👉 Follow the hashtag #InktoberArchitecture on LinkedIn and Instagram⏱️ Chapters00:00 – Introduction: Dust off the desk and grab your pen02:00 – Catching up with Nathan Taylor: CSI, AIA East Bay, and new projects03:15 – What is InktoberArchitecture? Origins and inspiration06:40 – Why architects should still draw in a digital world09:30 – This year’s prompts and creative interpretations13:20 – The role of hand sketching in Construction Administration17:00 – Field sketches, RFIs, and real-world problem solving20:30 – The muscle memory of drawing vs. digital design26:00 – The community behind InktoberArchitecture31:30 – Favourite sketches, firms, and global participation33:45 – Overcoming the “I can’t draw” myth39:50 – Favourite tools: pens, paper, and the art of imperfection42:30 – Digital sketching and apps like Morpholio Trace45:00 – Architecture culture, creativity, and balance48:00 – Sketching as stress relief and collaboration tool50:00 – How to join the challenge and where to find Nathan52:00 – Final thoughts: pick up a pen and start sketchingSupport the show🎙️Website - WhattheRFI.com🍏Apple Podcast - What the RFI? 🎧Spotify - What the RFI? 🎥YouTube - @WhatTheRFI
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