cloud-shaped openings pierce urban co-living unit's concrete facade in vietnam

The J House in Bien Hoa, Vietnam, designed by local studio CTA (Creative Architects), addresses the challenges of a narrow urban plot measuring four by 24 meters by employing a strategic use of folding glass doors, perforated metal screens, and skylights. The client, a teacher, sought a bright and airy home that could also accommodate her gardening hobby. The design prioritizes natural light, ventilation, and noise prevention, drawing from CTA's analysis of common issues in urban townhouses. The home is organized with a layering of spaces. The entrance features a living room and classroom accessible through full-height, folding glass doors. This space transitions into a central kitchen and dining area, which then leads to a bedroom and a small private garden at the southern end of the property. The distinct areas are delineated by large, wood-framed screens, which are infilled with various types of glass – translucent, transparent, and textured. This approach creates diverse light qualities and visual connections throughout the interior, promoting an open yet defined living experience. Given the site's narrow dimensions, the design incorporates skylights to bring natural light and air into the house's central and rear sections. These skylights are equipped with a thin layer of stones on top, which serves to diffuse direct sunlight, reduce glare, and produce dappled shadows within the home. This creates an effect reminiscent of sunlight filtering through leaves, enhancing the natural ambiance indoors. The team at CTA aimed to ensure that while the indoor spaces are abundantly lit, they remain cool and comfortable. A staircase, also illuminated by a skylight, ascends to the smaller first floor. This upper level comprises an additional bedroom, a bathroom, and a terrace at the front of the house. At the rear, a rooftop garden is sheltered by a metal-framed pergola. The exterior of the upper storey is clad in finely perforated metal panels arranged in a gridded pattern. A deliberate gap in this cladding allows for unobstructed views from the bedroom window and terrace, blending privacy with openness. The interior material palette features dark wood, concrete, and stone panels, which complement the play of light and shadow, imparting a sense of warmth and intimacy to the dwelling. Furthermore, a hollow-frame ceiling system is integrated into the design to absorb external noise, contributing to a tranquil indoor environment. CTA, established in 2014 and led by Bui The Long, Vo The Duy, and Nguyen Thi Xuan Thanh in Ho Chi Minh City, has a portfolio that includes other residential projects in Vietnam, such as a home in Tay Ninh with brown scalloped tiles and another in Bien Hoa wrapped in perforated bricks, showcasing their consistent focus on innovative material use and light management in narrow urban contexts. The photography for the J House project was done by Hiroyuki Oki. #JHouse #CTA #VietnameseArchitecture #NarrowPlotDesign #NaturalLight #Skylights #PerforatedMetalScreens #SustainableDesign #UrbanHousing #InteriorDesign

The VUx House, designed by 85 Design, is a residential project located in Ngũ Hành Sơn, Vietnam, completed in 2022. This 100 square meter house addresses the common challenges associated with small urban land plots in Vietnam, particularly the lack of natural light and ventilation, exacerbated by the hot and humid tropical climate. The architects' primary goal was to devise solutions to these prevalent issues, creating a comfortable and well-lit living space despite its compact footprint. The project emphasizes innovative architectural strategies to maximize natural elements within a constrained environment. The design incorporates specific features aimed at improving internal conditions. The house utilizes a thoughtful arrangement of openings and internal voids to facilitate cross-ventilation and allow sunlight penetration deep into the interior. Details regarding the material palette include wood, glass, and concrete. These materials likely contribute to both the aesthetic and functional aspects of the house, with glass potentially being used for natural lighting and ventilation, wood for warmth and aesthetic appeal, and concrete for structural integrity and thermal mass in the tropical climate. The VUx House project team included To Huu Dung as the Architect in Charge and for Architectural Design, Dao Ngoc Son for structural engineering, Thinh Tran for MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) systems, and Trinh Mai Giang for interior design. The collaboration of these professionals was crucial in tackling the complex design and construction challenges inherent in small urban housing projects in a demanding climate. The project also lists several manufacturers involved, such as Electrolux, DaiDuong Glass, Atarashi Window, Bosch, Hafele, and Ikea, indicating the integration of modern appliances and building components. Photographs by To Huu Dung capture the completed structure, showcasing the exterior, interior spaces, and specific architectural details like windows, facades, arches, stairs, and handrails. The visual documentation, including floor plans, sections, and environmental analyses (sun and wind), provides a comprehensive overview of the design intent and its execution. These analytical diagrams illustrate how the architects considered environmental factors to enhance the house's performance. The house is categorized under residential architecture, specifically as a house, and is situated in the Ngũ Hành Sơn district of Vietnam. Its compact size and strategic design make it a relevant example for addressing high-density urban living in tropical regions. The VUx House serves as a case study for sustainable and innovative architectural design within urban contexts characterized by high population density and challenging climatic conditions. The project's focus on natural light, ventilation, and material selection demonstrates a practical approach to improving the quality of life in small homes. The combination of local architectural expertise and internationally recognized manufacturers suggests a blend of regional understanding with global standards in building practices. #ResidentialArchitecture #SmallUrbanPlots #NaturalVentilation #DaylightIntegration #TropicalClimateDesign #WoodGlassConcrete #ArchitecturalInnovation #VietnamArchitecture

PVT House, designed by Cote Architects, is situated in a tranquil residential area of Vỹ Dạ Ward, Hue City, Vietnam. The house benefits from its proximity to a lush garden, providing extensive open views, abundant natural light, and a serene, fresh atmosphere. The design prioritizes integration with nature, ensuring that the living spaces feel connected to the outdoors while maintaining privacy and comfort. The project covers an area of 390 square meters and was completed in 2024. The architectural team was led by Hoang Viet Hung, with contributions from Nguyen Ba Vuong, Vo Thanh Thuy, Le Van Hoang Hai, and Vo Doan Hung. Structural engineering was handled by Nguyen Minh Hoang, while Dien Quang Hue was responsible for lighting design. MEP and HVAC consulting were provided by COTE Arch. Key manufacturers involved in the project include AutoDesk, Eurotile, INAX, and Kenwin. The house features prominent use of concrete as a primary material, which contributes to its modern aesthetic and structural integrity. The design likely incorporates large windows and open-plan layouts to maximize the inflow of natural light and views of the surrounding garden. The emphasis on natural light and ventilation aligns with sustainable design principles, enhancing the living environment and reducing reliance on artificial lighting and cooling. Photographs by Hoang Le capture the essence of PVT House, showcasing both its exterior and interior spaces. The exterior photography highlights the house's facade and window placements, suggesting a thoughtful approach to balancing openness with privacy. Interior shots often feature dining areas, living spaces, and bedrooms, emphasizing the interplay of light, shadow, and material textures. The use of beams in the interior design indicates a focus on structural expression and spatial definition. Architectural drawings, including site plans, floor plans for multiple levels, sections, elevations, and an axonometric view, provide a comprehensive understanding of the house's layout and design philosophy. These illustrations detail the spatial organization, circulation paths, and volumetric relationships within the building, offering insights into how the architects addressed the programmatic requirements and site conditions. The project reflects contemporary residential architecture in Vietnam, often characterized by a blend of modern design with local climatic and cultural considerations. #ResidentialArchitecture #HouseDesign #VietnamArchitecture #ConcreteArchitecture #NaturalLight #SustainableDesign #ModernHome #HueCity

Khuôn Studio and Phan Khac Tung designed the 18 House in Ho Chi Minh City for a family with a young daughter, situated on a compact 18-square-meter plot. The primary design challenge was to maximize space while ensuring privacy and adequate daylight in a dense urban environment. The solution involved constructing a multi-level home with a distinctive washed-terrazzo facade, characterized by tall, narrow, and individually operable windows. These narrow windows are integral to the home's design, serving both aesthetic and functional purposes. They facilitate natural light penetration into the interior while maintaining privacy from neighboring buildings. The facade also incorporates angled protrusions between windows, which shield the interior from direct sunlight and prevent unwanted views into the home. This strategic fenestration addresses the need for both openness and enclosure in a tightly packed urban setting. To optimize the limited internal area, the architects placed the staircase along the building's perimeter. This not only created additional functional space underneath for bathrooms and storage but also prevented the circulation areas from encroaching on living spaces. The staircase itself is minimalist, featuring wooden treads supported by metal rods suspended from the ceiling, contributing to a light and airy interior ambiance. For child safety, the architects suggested the future addition of rope nets. The ground floor includes a garage accessible by scooter, seamlessly connected to a compact kitchen and lounge area, with a restroom beneath the stairs. A double-height void above the parking area offers flexibility for future expansion, potentially accommodating an additional loft level. The first floor houses a bedroom with a raised platform for the child's bed, where the external angular facade elements are mirrored internally to manage morning sunlight and prevent overheating. The second floor contains another bedroom with a tiled headboard. A toilet is situated below the final flight of stairs leading to a shrine on the uppermost level. Adjacent to this bedroom, a set of steps ascends to a mezzanine reading loft, integrated with shelving within the deep window sills. A roof terrace extends from the worship space, providing access to an additional seating area on the roof of the reading room. The choice of terrazzo for the facade provides a durable and aesthetically pleasing finish that complements the modern design of the house. The project demonstrates an innovative approach to urban living on a small footprint, balancing practical needs with creative architectural solutions to create a comfortable and private family home in a bustling city. #ResidentialArchitecture #SmallPlotDesign #UrbanLiving #HoChiMinhCity #KhuonStudio #TerrazzoFacade #NarrowWindows #SpaceOptimization #VietnameseArchitecture #ModernHome

The TB House, designed by HA&A Design, is a residential project located in a Vietnamese village undergoing urbanization. The house was conceived as a gift from a young couple to their children, with a primary focus on maximizing natural light and vegetation within the living environment. The design addresses the local climate conditions by orienting the main open surface along the prevailing wind direction, which also aligns with the sun's orbit, ensuring optimal natural ventilation and sunlight exposure throughout the day. This strategic orientation aims to create a comfortable and healthy indoor atmosphere, a crucial aspect for a family home in a developing urban context. The architects incorporated locally available stone materials, which were often used arbitrarily in the region, into the design. This approach reflects a commitment to utilizing regional resources and potentially elevating their aesthetic and functional application within a structured architectural context. The integration of these local materials likely contributes to the house's unique character and its connection to the surrounding environment, while also promoting sustainable building practices by reducing the need for imported materials. The TB House spans an area of 400 square meters and was completed in 2022. The architectural team, led by Vũ Ngọc Hậu, included Lê Thu Phượng, Văn Cường, and Đỗ Hoàn. Triệu Chiến was responsible for the photography, capturing the essence of the design and its integration into the landscape. The project utilized products from manufacturers such as AutoDesk, Charm decor, Dulux, Toto, and Vietceramics, indicating a blend of modern construction technologies and local material sensibilities. The emphasis on natural light and vegetation suggests a design philosophy centered on well-being and a connection to nature, particularly beneficial for children's development. This design choice also addresses energy efficiency by reducing reliance on artificial lighting during daylight hours. The architectural firm's thoughtful consideration of both environmental factors and the clients' aspirations highlights a holistic approach to residential design in an urbanizing Vietnamese setting. Furthermore, the selection of local materials not only supports regional economies but also minimizes the carbon footprint associated with transportation. The project serves as an example of how modern residential architecture can respond to specific site conditions and cultural contexts, balancing contemporary design with traditional resourcefulness. The TB House stands as a testament to creating a nurturing and environmentally conscious home in a rapidly changing environment. #ResidentialArchitecture #VietnameseArchitecture #NaturalLightDesign #SustainableMaterials #Urbanization #ModernHomeDesign #HAADesign #FamilyHome #LocalMaterials

The Bunker House, located in Ciudad Ho Chi Minh (Saigón), Vietnam, is a residential project completed in 2019 by Nha Dan Architects, with a total area of 877 m². The design approach for this house builds upon the architects' previous work, where a system of concrete beams and columns was utilized to create open floor plans, enhance connectivity between spaces, and integrate the outdoors. In the Bunker House, this concrete system is extended beyond its structural function to also serve as spatial partitions and dictate the overall aesthetic of the project. Photographed by Hiroyuki Oki, the Bunker House showcases a distinctive use of concrete, which forms the core of its design philosophy. The concrete elements are not merely supportive but actively shape the living environment, defining rooms and influencing the visual character of the interior and exterior. This integrated use of a primary building material suggests a cohesive and deliberate design strategy where structure, spatial organization, and aesthetics are inextricably linked. The architectural team was led by Nguyen Dinh Gioi, with Tran Minh Phuoc and Luong Hien Phuong as key members of the design team. Engineering aspects were handled by Do Thanh Tuan for structural design and Trinh Van Tam for MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing) engineering. Construction management was overseen by Nguyen Khac Dong. Specialized consultants also contributed to the project, with Cara providing lighting consultancy and Tropical Garden Company Limited handling the landscape design. These collaborations indicate a comprehensive design and construction process involving various expert disciplines. Key manufacturers and suppliers involved in the project include AutoDesk, Sika, Cara, Daikin, Ixina, Kohler, Molution, Nha Le Company, Sika Hardener, Trimble, and Vietceramics. The selection of these materials and systems suggests a focus on durability, functionality, and specific aesthetic qualities, particularly with the prominent use of concrete and other modern building components. The integration of various systems like lighting, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), and specialized finishes points to a detailed consideration of the house's operational aspects and inhabitant comfort. The Bunker House falls under the categories of 'Houses' and 'House Interiors,' highlighting its residential nature and the emphasis on the internal living spaces. The project is situated in Ciudad Ho Chi Minh, a major urban center, which might influence considerations related to site context, privacy, and integration with the surrounding environment, although the provided text does not elaborate on these aspects. The project’s completion in 2019 positions it as a contemporary example of residential architecture in Vietnam, reflecting current trends in material use and spatial concepts within the region. The project's title, "Bunker House," may imply a sense of solidity, protection, or a distinct, robust architectural form, consistent with the extensive use of concrete as both structure and aesthetic element. #BunkerHouse #NhaDanArchitects #ResidentialArchitecture #ConcreteDesign #HoChiMinhCity #VietnamArchitecture #HouseInteriors #ModernDesign #StructuralAesthetics

AD9 Architects has completed the 'THD House' in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, a three-story residential project featuring a perforated metal facade and a sloped roof garden. The design focuses on accommodating the daily activities of an elder, as the house is a gift from a daughter to her mother, while also fostering functional connections between different areas and promoting natural ventilation and spaciousness. The integration of various types of greenery, both indoors and outdoors, is a key element in connecting residents with nature. The ground floor is strategically designed to house the kitchen, common living space, and the mother’s bedroom, ensuring ease of access and convenience for the elder resident. The first and second floors are dedicated to the children's bedrooms, structured as a multiple-level arrangement to maximize space and enhance ventilation throughout the dwelling. Despite their elevated position, these bedrooms maintain necessary privacy while remaining connected to the central areas of the house through a prominent central void. This central void is a defining architectural feature, extending the full height of the building and crowned with a skylight. This design element serves to draw abundant natural light deep into the core of the house, illuminating the interiors and contributing to a bright and open atmosphere. In addition to the central void, two supplementary voids are incorporated at the front and back of the structure, functioning as open yards and providing outdoor access and light to the lower floors. A significant aspect of the THD House is its sloped roof, which has been ingeniously transformed into a productive roof garden. This area is designated for cultivating plants, flowers, and organic vegetables, offering the inhabitants a space for daily interaction with nature. The rooftop garden also provides opportunities for socialization and relaxation, aligning with the architects' intention to create a living environment that supports well-being and a connection to the outdoors. The project successfully balances practical considerations for multi-generational living with innovative design elements that promote natural light, ventilation, and green spaces. #AD9Architects #THDHouse #HoChiMinhCity #VietnameseArchitecture #PerforatedFacade #RoofGarden #ResidentialDesign #SustainableDesign #NaturalVentilation

For decades, architects and government officials have recognized the importance of energy-efficient buildings, especially since the 1970s energy crisis. Buildings, including their construction, materials, and associated infrastructure, contribute up to 40 percent of global carbon emissions, making energy efficiency a critical concern. This understanding is foundational in North American architecture schools and has been emphasized by European institutions for even longer. The "Passive House Design" approach, pioneered by German architects, considers a building's entire interconnected system, focusing on its integration with the site, climate, and social support. This philosophy extends beyond residential structures to all building types. A more recent evolution, the "Net Zero Design" approach, also led by German designers, takes this further by requiring buildings to be highly efficient, use minimal energy, and replace all the energy they consume, potentially even contributing excess energy back to the local power grid. Europe, with its advanced energy design and construction history, has developed numerous innovative building cladding systems that contribute to energy efficiency. These systems often incorporate specialty fabrics in intelligent ways, such as vertical shade systems, retractable awnings, and entire building wraps. Industry experts, including Steve Fredrickson from Serge Ferrari North America, note that Europe is significantly ahead of North America in this area due to a lack of air conditioning standardization in European homes and retail, creating a greater need for heat barrier solutions. Additionally, European building codes are more adaptable to new energy-reducing products and developments. In contrast, existing North American building codes and the time required for their amendment make widespread adoption of fabric shade systems more challenging. Architect Samuel Armijos observes that while European markets showcase many examples of vertical fabric systems, such projects are scarce in the U.S. This lack of visible examples hinders broader acceptance and design incorporation. Architect Nicholas Goldsmith, however, notes a growing recognition among North American designers that exterior shading, particularly in specific regional climates, offers advantages over other cladding systems, such as being lightweight, efficient, and cost-effective. Mike Squizzato of Stobag North America Corp. highlights that Europeans prioritize shade for cooling due to higher electricity costs, whereas North Americans typically rely on air conditioning. He believes that as electricity costs rise and climate concerns grow, North American markets will rapidly adopt shading solutions, with awnings and vertical shading providing natural air-conditioned environments and potentially saving over 50 percent on electricity bills. Paul Snustead, director of facades at Structurflex, acknowledges Europe's lead but points to Structurflex's efforts to advance fabric facade architecture in the U.S. Tensile facades, also known as textile, fabric, or flexible facades, offer an innovative, long-lasting, and cost-effective alternative to traditional metal mesh screens, often costing about 50 percent less. These systems act as a 'second skin' for buildings, providing screening and shading, which can contribute to reduced energy consumption and LEED certification. Despite the clear benefits, the adoption of fabric-based shading systems in North America faces challenges. Traditional cladding materials remain strong competitors. Armijos notes a decline in leads for shade jobs, with parking garages being the primary market, but even there, fabric competes with pre-fabricated concrete and metal mesh systems. He suggests a major global event might be needed to spur a push toward textile facades. Andrew Trowbridge of Ronstan International observes a shift away from stainless steel cables in fabric structures towards greening systems and perforated aluminum panels for shade and facade coverage. Conversely, Fredrickson sees growth in both static and retractable vertical shading options across North America. Snustead describes an exponential expansion in the fabric facade architecture market, particularly for tensile fabric meshes, membranes, and foils, initially driven by parking garage screening requirements. Structurflex has seen an 800 percent increase in facade projects annually, with fabric facades becoming a significant part of their operations. Squizzato predicts that as temperatures rise, North Americans will increasingly seek cost-effective cooling solutions beyond air conditioning, leading to buildings with more colorful awnings and widespread vertical shading, eventually mirroring European practices within 15 years. For companies looking to enter or expand in this market, experts emphasize the need for knowledge, education, and accessibility of information. The ideal company size varies by region and market, but success hinges on having the right products and expertise. Fredrickson warns against using cheap, unproven products, which can harm the market's reputation. Snustead highlights the versatility of tensile facades, which can span large distances with less structural support and use materials that are often 100% recyclable with long lifespans. Squizzato points out that many existing businesses, from awning companies to landscape architects, can leverage sun shade protection to expand their services, provided they have appropriate insurance, training, and competent staff. The overall outlook for vertical fabric shading remains positive, with continued growth anticipated, especially as architects and contractors become more familiar with the medium's innovation and economic advantages. #BuildingFacades #VerticalShading #EnergyEfficiency #FabricArchitecture #SustainableDesign #ArchitecturalTextiles #NetZeroDesign #ClimateControl #ConstructionInnovation

The Desert Wash home, designed by architect Brent Kendle of Kendle Design Collaborative, integrates with the Arizona desert landscape through its site-specific design and material choices. This 6,700-square-foot residence in Paradise Valley, Arizona, was created for a family of four and is named after the existing desert dry wash on the property, a drainage area susceptible to severe flooding. To address this natural challenge and embrace the environment, the home features an elevated glazed bridge that spans the dry wash, transforming a potential obstacle into a defining architectural element. The residence is thoughtfully designed to immerse its occupants in the natural surroundings while offering modern comforts and ample space for entertaining. The layout positions the majority of the home, including the master suite and three guest bedrooms, to the north of the dry wash. The foyer, an office, and one guest bedroom are situated to the south, connected by the aforementioned glazed bridge. This separation and connection allow for varied experiences within the home, highlighting the desert views from multiple vantage points. The material palette and neutral color scheme are deliberately chosen to harmonize the expansive structure with the desert environment. Rammed earth walls are a prominent feature, extending from the exterior into the interior, visually and texturally linking the dwelling to the earth. These walls, combined with extensive glazing, flat steel, and wood roofs with deep overhangs, define the architectural character. The use of predominantly white interior walls creates a bright and airy ambiance, serving as a neutral backdrop for the family’s art collection. Kendle Design Collaborative emphasizes that the Desert Wash home utilizes indigenous materials to delineate its main living spaces. The rammed earth walls literally bring the earth into the interior, providing a sense of rootedness and unity with nature. The design reflects a profound sensitivity to the site, respecting its natural topography and characteristics by nestling the home into the earth and spanning over the ancient wash. This approach ensures that the residence not only coexists with but celebrates the unique qualities of the Arizona desert. #DesertArchitecture #RammedEarth #SustainableDesign #ArizonaHomes #KendleDesignCollaborative #SiteSpecificDesign #ModernHome #IndoorOutdoorLiving

Stella Casa, a contemporary residence designed by Idee architects, is strategically positioned on a hillside in Vĩnh Yên, Vietnam. The architectural design is a direct response to the challenging steep terrain, featuring a series of interconnected functional volumes that are artfully stacked along the slope. This layout ensures that each volume is optimally oriented to maximize views and foster a sense of openness throughout the property. The primary objective of the design was to create a seamless integration between the indoor and outdoor environments, making every part of the villa feel like an extension of the surrounding landscape. The villa's exterior emphasizes a modern aesthetic, characterized by expansive windows and a thoughtful facade. These elements are not merely decorative but serve to enhance the connection with nature, allowing ample natural light and panoramic views to permeate the interior spaces. The design incorporates various levels and transitions, such as stairs and gardens, which are integrated into the overall structure, further blurring the lines between built form and natural context. The use of materials like glass and concrete highlights the contemporary nature of the project while ensuring structural integrity and aesthetic appeal. The interior of Stella Casa is designed for comfort and functionality, with spaces such as the living room meticulously planned to capitalize on the natural light and scenic vistas. The design team, led by Tran Ngoc Linh and including Do Duy Hung and Nguyen Thi Thanh Huyen, focused on creating a living environment that is both luxurious and deeply rooted in its setting. Truong Tho Construction Company undertook the general construction, bringing the intricate design to fruition in 2023. Key details of the project include a total area of 600 square meters, indicating a substantial residential development. The photographs, captured by Trieu Chien, visually document the successful realization of the architects' vision, showcasing the interplay of light, shadow, and material. The project is categorized under 'Houses' and 'Residential Architecture,' signifying its primary function and design intent. The selection of Vĩnh Yên, Vietnam, as the location underscores the project's adaptability to diverse geographical conditions and its contribution to the local architectural landscape. The design's approach to hillside construction, utilizing stacked volumes and strategic orientation, offers insights into innovative solutions for challenging topographies. This project exemplifies how modern architectural principles can be applied to create residences that are both visually striking and highly functional, while maintaining a strong dialogue with their natural surroundings. #ResidentialArchitecture #ContemporaryDesign #HillsideHouse #VietnamArchitecture #IdeeArchitects #GlassAndConcrete #IndoorOutdoorLiving

Limdim House Studio has undertaken a renovation project for the Brown Box apartment in Vietnam, transforming a previously commercial two-bedroom unit into a serene one-bedroom home. The design philosophy centers on creating a gentle and calm living space, inspired by the owner, Ms. Brown, and her preference for the color brown. The renovation involved a significant reorganisation of the apartment's layout, primarily by removing existing walls to foster a more open and fluid environment. A key design element implemented throughout the apartment is the extensive use of curved walls and arched niches. These architectural features serve to soften the interior, eliminating sharp corners and contributing to a sense of fluidity and openness. Complementing these curves are tiered cornices, which offer a contemporary interpretation of traditional crown mouldings, further enhancing the gentle aesthetic of the space. The overall design embraces a natural color palette, predominantly featuring light browns, beige, and various wood tones, which collectively evoke a tranquil and sophisticated atmosphere. The studio's material selection plays a crucial role in defining the apartment's character. Terrazzo is a prominent material, applied not only to the flooring but also to key furniture pieces such as the kitchen island. This choice provides a durable, aesthetically pleasing surface that contributes to the apartment’s cool and soothing feel, particularly beneficial in Vietnam’s tropical climate due to its heat dissipation properties. The continuous flow of terrazzo from the kitchen island across the floors unifies the main living areas. In the open-plan kitchen and dining area, a rounded island clad in pale terrazzo acts as a central feature, offering additional counter space while blending seamlessly with the apartment's overall design. An arched niche within the kitchen frames the sink, terrazzo countertops, and a semi-circular arrangement of taupe-brown overhead cabinetry, all designed to fit harmoniously within the alcove. The living space, separated from the kitchen and dining area by floor-to-ceiling Melaleuca wood cabinetry and a curved ceiling, continues the theme of natural materials and soft forms. This curved ceiling transitions into an arched wall, subtly demarcating the living zone. Wooden furnishings further tie into the natural aesthetic, ensuring consistency throughout the main living areas. The bedroom, accessed through an arched doorway from the living area, maintains the calm and airy aesthetic. The walls in this private space are finished with a grey plaster-like texture, adding a tactile dimension. An en-suite bathroom adjoins the bedroom, featuring a free-standing terrazzo bathtub positioned beneath a large circular window, which provides a visual connection between the two spaces. Redbrick tiling is used within the en-suite, introducing a contrasting texture while remaining within the natural material palette. Limdim House Studio emphasizes that the primary goal of their design is to create a comfortable and sophisticated living environment that truly resonates with the owner. The studio believes that a successful design goes beyond meeting basic needs, aiming to foster a sense of enjoyment and peace within the home. This project reflects their architectural and interior design approach, which focuses on integrating natural materials, subtle curves, and a calming color scheme to create a harmonious and inviting space. #LimdimHouseStudio #VietnamInteriors #ApartmentRenovation #CurvedWalls #ArchedNiches #TerrazzoDesign #NaturalPalette #OpenPlanLiving #ContemporaryInteriors

Noah’s Nest, a residential project by Archiro Vietnam in Tiền Giang province, presents a modern home deeply rooted in Vietnamese architectural traditions. Designed for actor Lâm Thanh Nhã, this 603-square-foot residence thoughtfully combines contemporary design principles with a strong emphasis on local heritage. The project diverges from industrial, imported materials, instead favoring locally sourced elements such as baked clay bricks, bamboo poles, traditional rice storage straw mats, and ornamental stone mortars. This material selection not only serves an aesthetic purpose but also firmly connects the home to the cultural and agricultural landscape of the Mekong Delta, reflecting Tiền Giang's identity. The home's design balances rustic textures with clean, modern lines, creating a space that feels both familiar and innovative. This equilibrium ensures the residence integrates seamlessly into its rural environment while maintaining a distinct architectural character. Despite its modest size, Noah’s Nest achieves a sense of openness and spaciousness through strategic use of skylights and integrated greenery. Natural ventilation is a key design feature, allowing air to flow freely throughout the structure and minimizing the need for artificial cooling in the tropical climate. The inclusion of indoor plants and outdoor views throughout the layout promotes biophilic design, contributing to a healthier living space. The underlying philosophy of Noah’s Nest extends beyond its physical attributes. The home, characterized by unfinished walls and open windows, is conceived as a dynamic structure that requires ongoing care and interaction, much like a nest. These deliberate imperfections add to the home’s character, serving as a constant reminder of the evolving nature of family life. For its owner, the home functions as a creative sanctuary. The comforting familiarity of traditional materials, coupled with the tranquility of rural life, provides an environment conducive to introspection and artistic inspiration. This setting allows Nhã to explore new ideas for his work, thereby contributing to the development of Vietnam’s film and artistic community. A notable design element is the integration of indoor rock beds. On the ground floor, a rock garden forms the focal point of the open-plan living area, encircling a spiral staircase that connects to the upper level. This sculptural feature is softened by lush greenery, effectively blurring the boundaries between interior architecture and nature. Upstairs, a second rock bed serves as the foundation for a floating bathtub, strategically placed opposite the bed in the primary suite. Surrounded by tropical plants and natural textures, this bathing area evokes the ambiance of a private spa, integrating tranquility and biophilic design into the core of the home. The exposed brick construction of Noah’s Nest is a testament to the collaborative effort between the design team and local artisans. This technique not only emphasizes the tactile beauty of handmade materials but also enhances building efficiency and reduces costs. By highlighting the natural tones and patterns of the bricks, the home gains visual warmth and minimizes the need for additional ornamentation. Structural components are subtly integrated within the brickwork, creating an illusion of simplicity while ensuring robust support for the entire structure. #VietnameseArchitecture #ModernHomeDesign #BiophilicDesign #SustainableMaterials #CulturalHeritage #IndoorOutdoorLiving #ArchiroVietnam #TienGiang

The Xchange Apartment in Kyoto, designed by architecture studio TANK, reimagines traditional Japanese craft techniques to transform a previously "drab" flat into a guesthouse for artists. Principal Naritake Fukumoto drew inspiration from kintsugi, the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with lacquer mixed with powdered gold, to create a unique flooring aesthetic. For the living room, Fukumoto intentionally selected a type of cement flooring prone to cracking. Once the cracks naturally formed, a gold-colored epoxy resin was used to fill these imperfections, mirroring the kintsugi philosophy of celebrating the beauty in imperfection rather than concealing it. This innovative application transforms what might typically be seen as a flaw into a deliberate and artistic design element. Beyond the living area, the bathroom and kitchen floors, which are slightly elevated, feature another adaptation of a traditional Japanese craft: lacquerware. Instead of directly applying lacquer, the architect used a layer of fiber-reinforced plastic netting covered with transparent resin. This method creates a translucent yet visually complex texture, revealing the underlying glass-fiber layers over the wooden base. This technique not only achieves a distinctive aesthetic but also provides material strength and waterproofing, essential for these utility areas. The choice of materials and methods in these spaces reflects a conscious effort to integrate local traditions into contemporary interior design. The apartment's overall decor maintains a minimalist approach, featuring white walls and simple furnishings. Exposed concrete beams, subtly marked with paint stains, contribute to the raw, artistic ambiance. Practical design elements are also incorporated, such as a pair of mirrored doors that can be opened to form a private dressing area. Glass doors lead to a narrow balcony, offering residents picturesque views of the nearby Kiyomizu Temple and the surrounding five mountains, connecting the interior space with Kyoto's natural and cultural landscape. The design aims to create an intuitive and creative atmosphere, encouraging residents to explore both the apartment's unique features and the city outside. TANK, a Tokyo-based studio established in 2010, is known for its inventive architectural projects that often play with conventional elements and perceptions of space. Previous works include an apartment where carpet sections double as flip-flops and a home featuring floorboards on the ceiling, demonstrating a consistent innovative and unconventional design philosophy. The Xchange Apartment continues this tradition by integrating traditional Japanese repair and craft techniques into its modern design, highlighting the potential for contemporary spaces to draw depth and character from historical methods. The photography for the project was provided by Kenta Hasegawa, effectively capturing the apartment's distinctive details and overall aesthetic. The project team included Naritake Fukumoto as the architect, with construction handled by LOÖWE and TANK, emphasizing a collaborative approach to realizing this distinctive residential space. #KyotoApartment #KintsugiInspired #JapaneseCraft #ResinFlooring #MinimalistInterior #FiberReinforcedPlastic #GuesthouseDesign #TANKArchitects #TraditionalModernBlend

Owen Davies, a photographer who moved from the U.K. to New York in early March 2020, found himself in a deserted city due to the pandemic. During his long walks, he was captivated by the large, monolithic concrete buildings, particularly those from the brutalist movement of the 1960s and ’70s. He noted the striking difference in how these structures appeared under New York's light compared to the often cloudy skies of the U.K., where they tended to look more oppressive. In New York, the light amplified their textures, making them seem like monuments from a "failed utopia." Davies embarked on a photography series titled “Light/Mass,” which primarily features brutalist buildings in and around New York City, including notable structures in Connecticut, Boston, and Albany. Among these are the Art Moderne bathhouse at Jacob Riis Park, The Egg at Empire State Plaza in Albany, and Marcel Breuer’s Armstrong Rubber Company building in New Haven. His photographs are distinguished by their pale, buff color palette, often rendering the buildings and their surrounding landscapes in an almost monochrome style, as exemplified by his shot of the Abe Stark ice-skating rink in Coney Island. The photographer intentionally captures these buildings in the morning light, avoiding the warmer tones of the golden hour, to highlight the intricate details of their bush-hammered concrete surfaces. Davies employs some color correction in post-production but avoids drastic changes, and he removes most people from his images to evoke the sense of an emptied-out city, reflecting the project's pandemic origins. The article discusses the divisive nature of brutalist architecture, noting that while many architects admire it, the general public often dislikes it. Some prominent brutalist experiments are even being demolished, despite their original design for near-indestructibility. Davies acknowledges that these buildings can be difficult to live with, but he expresses admiration for the boldness of governments that commissioned such outlandish designs, contrasting them with what he perceives as the safer, less imaginative architectural trends of today. He personally finds beauty in these often-maligned structures, citing examples like Lincoln Plaza Towers and Chatham Towers as places he would consider living. He believes that in a city like New York, the sheer diversity of architectural styles means that if one dislikes a particular building, another, more appealing one is always nearby. #Architecture #Cityscape #Photography #Brutalism #Concrete #OwenDavies #NewYorkCity

The article discusses the architectural installation "Spirit of the City" by London-based United Visual Artists (UVA) at A/D/O in New York, presented during New York Design Week. This installation is a collaboration with Mini, hosted in their innovative creative space, A/D/O. The primary goal of the installation is to offer a reflective experience within the dynamic urban environment, metaphorically and physically mirroring its surroundings and New York City at large. The installation consists of 9-foot-high modular columns that revolve, creating an immersive experience for visitors. The rotation patterns are not arbitrary; they are based on extensive research into human activity within the city. This research allowed UVA to develop a 24-hour algorithm that dictates the movement of the columns, transitioning from tranquil rhythms to more urgent, dynamic movements. As visitors navigate the space around these colossal totems, they can observe subtle shadows cast onto the ground, forming intricate, poetic patterns that respond to the kinetic energy of the columns. The surface of the columns themselves presents varying perspectives, shifting from serene sky blues to the grittier, industrial aesthetics of A/D/O's creative hub. This visual transformation further emphasizes the interplay between the installation and its urban backdrop. UVA, founded in 2003, is known for its art practice that integrates technology to create experiences that often extend beyond conventional physical boundaries. Their previous works have been showcased globally in prestigious institutions such as the Victoria and Albert Museum and YCAM in Japan. Matt Clark, founder of UVA, poses a fundamental question through "Spirit of the City": do human activities shape urban landscapes, or do urban landscapes, in turn, define human activities? This philosophical inquiry underpins the interactive and reflective nature of the installation. A/D/O itself, located in a converted warehouse in Brooklyn, opened the previous year, featuring a diverse array of design-focused retail, bars, and restaurants, aligning with Mini's broader design agenda. Mini's head of brand strategy and business innovation, Esther Bahne, states that Mini believes in design's capacity to foster a more humane world. A/D/O initially launched with Design Academy, a three-day festival for professional designers to explore cultural themes. "Spirit of the City" marks the space's first major showcase for NYCxDesign since its opening and was on display until 2 September. The installation, through its thoughtful design and interactive elements, invites contemplation on the symbiotic relationship between people and their urban surroundings. #NewYorkDesignWeek #ArchitecturalInstallation #UnitedVisualArtists #UrbanEnvironment #AdoSpace #MiniCollaboration #KineticArt #PublicArt

This article explores the aesthetic and functional versatility of concrete in modern home design, showcasing eleven distinct residential projects from the archives of *Belle* magazine. Concrete, often perceived as a cold, utilitarian material, is presented here as a sophisticated element that can provide an industrial-chic foundation for diverse interior styles and create a sense of timelessness. The featured homes illustrate various applications of concrete. One example highlights a curvaceous concrete facade designed by Samantha McKenzie and executed by Leeton Pointon architects + interiors, emphasizing a sturdy and sensorial architectural approach. Another project, a beach house conceived by Brett Mickan, incorporates oak and polished concrete stairs, with the concrete tinted a taupe shade to harmonize with the surrounding sandstone cliffs. Fiona Lynch's design for a Williamstown home utilizes poured concrete floors with darker 'pebbles,' creating an unexpected texture and character, in combination with solid oak and stone for longevity. Further examples demonstrate concrete's ability to foster warmth and a zen-like atmosphere when paired with materials like American oak, as seen in a home by Ray Demkiw of Schulberg Demkiw Architects. SLAB Architecture’s space-saving home integrates raw concrete and steel with natural finishes, blurring the lines between exterior and interior materials. A penthouse apartment designed by Adam Haddow and BKH features concrete walls and ceilings complemented by American oak flooring, while Pamela Makin's coastal home employs concrete floors and walls in the bathroom to achieve an industrial-chic aesthetic. Matt Gibson's modernist house combines concrete, stone, timber, and steel to form a robust industrial palette. Architects Kerry Phelan and Stephen Javens transformed a military building’s garage into a home, where concrete plays a subtle role, with a hidden courtyard at the entrance. Neil Cownie’s concrete house utilizes matt cement and ribbed timbers to establish a specific mood. Finally, a home by Luigi Rosselli Architects and Alwill incorporates an elliptical concrete staircase, connecting its three levels and basement garage. Across all these examples, the consistent theme is concrete’s capacity to be both a dominant architectural feature and a harmonious backdrop, proving its adaptability and enduring appeal in contemporary residential architecture. #ConcreteHomes #ModernArchitecture #IndustrialChic #InteriorDesign #HomeTours #ArchitecturalDesign #Materiality #ContemporaryHomes #AustralianDesign #RenovationIdeas