At Hayne Architects, design isn’t something we leave behind at the office—it’s woven into how we see the world. Travel becomes both inspiration and research, offering lessons in craft, culture, and creativity.

This month, our founder Robbin—architect, foodie, and traveler with over four decades of design experience—is exploring Japan. While we didn’t sneak onto his itinerary (much to our disappointment!), it sparked a conversation in the studio: What does it mean to travel as an architect?

Here are a few of our favorite insights on how architects—and design enthusiasts alike—can make the most of their journeys.

1. Plan, But Leave Room for Discovery

Architects are planners by nature—we love a good itinerary. When traveling, it helps to map out a few “must-sees”: iconic buildings, historic districts, or museums. In Japan, that might mean Kengo Kuma’s work, Kyoto’s temples, or Tokyo’s experimental skyscrapers.

But equally important? Leaving space for unplanned moments. Sometimes the most meaningful inspiration comes from wandering through a side street, stepping into a quiet garden, or lingering at a café that wasn’t in the guidebook.

2.Travel Through Food

For Robbin, food is as much a design experience as architecture. A thoughtfully plated dish, a bustling market, or the intimate atmosphere of a ramen bar can say as much about a culture as its buildings. For architects, tasting local flavors helps us understand place, history, and community on a deeper level.

3.What to Pack as an Architect

Architectural travel requires a few essentials:

• Sketchbook + pen – Nothing replaces the immediacy of drawing.
• Camera or phone with extra storage – To capture details, textures, and light.
• Good shoes – You’ll walk more than you think.
• A flexible tote or backpack – To stash finds like books, brochures, or local materials.
• An open mind – Because the best discoveries often come from surprise.

4.Pace Your Days Thoughtfully

It’s tempting to pack every minute with tours and site visits, but architecture demands time and presence. Give yourself a rhythm: one or two major sites in the morning, a long lunch, and slower explorations in the afternoon. Balance is key—just as in design, proportion matters.

5. Seek Out Both Old + New

The dialogue between past and present is what makes architecture so rich. In Japan, you can stand in a centuries-old Zen garden in the morning and admire a glass-and-steel tower in the afternoon. Experiencing both gives context and contrast—essential tools for any designer’s eye.

Final Thoughts

Traveling as an architect isn’t about checking boxes—it’s about collecting impressions, ideas, and stories that continue to shape our work long after the trip ends.

As Robbin explores Japan, we can’t wait to see what textures, spaces, and flavors he brings back to inspire our studio. After all, the best part of traveling as an architect is returning home with fresh eyes.