A Journey of Inspiration: From LEGO Bricks to Architectural Dreams and Turn to Model Product Designer in the Future & Thank You, Bjarke Ingels
Jan. 29. 2025
Written by (David) Vi Boi Huynh,
Location: 92NY, New York City, NY, USA.
Event Date: Jan. 22. 2025
The first time I (Vi Boi Huynh - David) encountered Bjarke Ingels - a Danish architect was in 2014 when the LEGO House project in Billund, Denmark, was announced. I still remember the first article that I read on Designboom titled “First Bricks Laid on BIG-Designed LEGO House in Denmark.” Link, At that time, I was preparing for my high school graduation, still contemplating my path in architecture. Since childhood, I have been drawn to the creative arts, spending countless hours sketching people, buildings, and vehicles—imagining and shaping stories on paper. Initially, I dreamed of becoming a comic book artist, creating immersive narratives and fictional worlds. However, as I grew older, my fascination expanded beyond two-dimensional storytelling to three-dimensional spaces—places where people live, work, and connect.
A pivotal influence in this shift was an activity so simple yet profoundly impactful: building with LEGO bricks. To me, they were more than just toys; they were a medium for exploring architectural concepts, allowing me to experiment with structures, forms, and spatial relationships. This hands-on experience ignited my curiosity about how architecture shapes our environment and daily lives.
Throughout my journey, I found inspiration in visionary architects such as Zaha Hadid, Frank Lloyd Wright, Frank Gehry, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, and Ma Yansong. Their philosophies and approaches to architecture helped shape my perspective before I even entered college. However, in 2016, my interest in Bjarke Ingels resurfaced when I discovered his Copenhagen Harbor Bath project Link. It was more than an architectural feat—it was a transformation of the urban landscape, bringing sustainability and joy to the community. Instead of driving hours to the coast, city residents could now experience the joy of swimming right in the heart of Copenhagen. This project made me realize that architecture is not just about structures; it is about enhancing life, fostering connections, and making cities more livable.
In 2019, I came across another groundbreaking project—CopenHill Link, a power plant. It is a visionary project in Copenhagen that seamlessly integrates sustainability, functionality, and recreation. More than just a power plant, it redefines urban infrastructure by incorporating a ski slope, hiking trails, and the world's tallest artificial climbing wall into its design. This innovative approach transforms an industrial facility into a dynamic public space, demonstrating how architecture can serve multiple purposes while enhancing the quality of life.
It was through CopenHill that I fully recognized two defining principles of Bjarke Ingels' philosophy: "Formgiving" to "Hedonistic Sustainability." The project exemplifies how sustainable design can go beyond efficiency and necessity to create spaces that inspire joy, well-being, and a deep connection between people and their environment. With its bold vision and multi-functional design, CopenHill has become an iconic symbol of sustainable architecture infused with a sense of playfulness and delight. This project profoundly influenced my perspective, reinforcing my belief that architecture is not merely about creating shelter but about shaping experiences that contribute to a better world. At that moment, I felt a strong desire to follow in Ingels' footsteps, using design as a tool to redefine how we interact with our built environment.
Now, as a senior student with an Interior Architecture major, I reflect on how profoundly Bjarke Ingels' design philosophy has influenced my academic journey. His work has deepened my understanding of the transformative power of architecture—not just as a means of creating shelter, but as a way to enhance comfort, happiness, and well-being. My primary aspiration is to become a designer who creates homes where people feel a true sense of "Hygge"—a space that fosters warmth, joy, and a deep sense of belonging. However, through Ingels' concept of Formgiving, I have come to realize that design extends beyond architecture careers; it is about shaping the world in countless ways in different careers.
With this broader perspective, I have also developed a passion for designing products that inspire creativity and play. I dream of becoming a LEGO Model Product Designer, combining my architectural background with the power of play to create meaningful experiences for people of all ages. Just as LEGO bricks sparked my imagination as a child, I hope to design products that encourage future generations to explore, build, and shape their own paths—just as I once did.
On January 21, 2025, I had the incredible opportunity to travel from San Francisco to New York City to attend a conversation of Architecture Talk between Fanyu Lin and Bjarke Ingels. It was my first time taking a short architecture walking tour in Midtown Manhattan. Meeting Ingels in person and listening to his talk about his passion for design, architecture, and innovation. His insights continue to inspire me to push boundaries and find joy in creation. One of the most cherished moments of the event was receiving his signature on my favorite book, "Formgiving." Thank you, Bjarke Ingels!
This experience has left a lasting impact on me, reinforcing my belief that design is a powerful tool to shape the world. Whether through architecture or LEGO, I hope to contribute to a future where creativity, sustainability, and joy define the spaces we inhabit in the future. As I said: "Play is a way to start giving "Form" to the future, fostering creativity and innovation. We always have opportunities to engage in "Open Play" everywhere through my principles: "Play, Keep Play, and Play Well."" (BOI_Design)
