Discover Vietnam’s Sustainable Architectural Gems

Bài viết này có ngôn ngữ Tiếng Việt.

We’ve been exploring Vietnam’s architectural wonders for years. From bamboo homes to vertical gardens, Vietnam has some of the greenest and most innovative sustainable designs in all of South East Asia. For this article, we’re highlighting a few of our favorite sustainable architectural gems across Vietnam that are as kind to the environment, local culture and people, as they are stunning. Get ready for lush rooftop gardens, recycled materials galore, and structures designed to naturally control temperature. Vietnam may be known for its ancient temples and French colonial buildings, but its modern sustainable architecture scene is one of the region’s best-kept secrets. Until now, that is!

Bó Mon Preschool | Son La

Let’s start out trip from up North. We were thrilled to find Bó Mon Preschool during our research, a connecting station for local students tucked away in the mountains of Son La. As if carved from waves of steel, the school’s inhabitants enjoy a smooth transition between sunlight and shade while the structure camouflages itself into the mountains.

The dark-colored roof keeps the students warm during cold season, and windows are oriented to catch breeze running down the valley, allowing cross ventilation. Surrounded by an abundance of green, the children have a chance to explore native plants and study in an open-air classroom environment that is rich in natural light.

Bó Mon Preschool shows how architecture can foster environmental stewardship. Nestled in the mountains, it highlights how humanity and nature can coexist in harmony. The school cultivates our future green citizens by immersing children in ecology, nurturing their bond with the land while makes sure they receive a safe and enriching education.

Toigetation | Cao Bang

Son Lap Commune, Cao Bang mostly consists of the minority ethnic of H’Mong and Dao, who have to live without electricity, infrastructure, or any means of telecommunication. A place where minimum standards of sanitary is still in urgent need, project such as Toigetation comes across as a brilliant solution.

A combination of toilet + washing area + vegetation, Toigetation was designed based on three objectives: quick construction, low cost, and widely-applied ability. Made from local resources such as bamboo, brick, and reused sewer; and built by local people including teachers and students, the project can resist natural disasters, provide electricity using solar panels, while reusing waste water and running water.

With just $3000 of construction cost and a building period of 3 weeks, possible to achieved with local human and material resources, it’s a warm feeling to know that project Toigetation can be seen across Vietnam, helping to improve many lives without taking away parts of local ecology or its unique culture.

Multi-generational Townhouse | Hanoi

Arrived in Hanoi, our research explores innovative takes on classic family house. Known for its tight-knit community and traditions, Hanoians often view their home as a place enjoyed by multi generations. This three-story house was designed for such purpose.

The first generation of the eldest originated as farmers and are used to the practice of agriculture. Hence, the highest level of the house was designed as an open garden that provides home-grown and clean vegetables for the family and neighbors.

The second generation are the main providers with a busy work-life balance, naturally an environment that helps reduce stress, brings a sense of calm is necessary. Blocks of space allow sun rays to travel from the rooftop down to the lower floors, while plants on the ground grow tall in abundance and density, weaving nature into daily life.

This harmony opens opportunities for the youngest generation to stay motivated and encouraged them to play and explore freely without the interference of technology.

A self-cooling, flood-proof architecture, a space that reignites family connections, and a self-sufficient lifestyle that cultivates own fresh supplies; by using readily available, renewable materials and clever design, this multi-generational townhouse in Hanoi is a bright example of adapting to rapid urbanization without changing roots.

Pizza 4P’s Hikari | Binh Duong

Following their Earth to People ethos, the restaurant caters moments of mindfulness in a natural setting while bringing home their win of The Green GOOD DESIGN Sustainability Awards. Slowly and steadily, Pizza 4P’s has become one the best known names in Vietnam’s sustainable development scene.