Ancient buildings are relics of the past and should be preserved, in the viewof some people. Others, however, believe that the appearance of modern buildings will open a new horizon for the development of a nation. This essay will discuss the validity of both sides. The ancient houses are, first, believed to be the reservoir of the glorious past of a nation. With their existence along each road, it is undeniable that no sooner does young generation grow up than they become proud of their country’s admirable old-day history through the image of roof, ceiling and walls. Philosophically speaking, like a person who clings to the past to reflect, views the present to enjoy and contemplates the future, a city itself entails an inextricable link of these three time axes to revise, thrive and fly. Nevertheless, in case of derelict and run-down old houses, such experience of living in these shelters could be a nightmare to quite a few people, for instance, Hanoi people who are su...