Saigon, also known as Ho Chi Minh City, is Vietnam’s most densely populated city, with the highest number of buildings and vehicles. This rapid urban expansion has brought significant challenges, including severe traffic congestion and a lack of green spaces. The city’s high density leaves little room for urban greenery, which is essential for residents seeking peaceful environments and a harmonious connection with nature.
Given these conditions, the project site is nestled between towering skyscrapers, creating a valley-like illusion. This setting presents unique challenges for designing an open and transparent spatial atmosphere.
Responding to the homeowners’ desire for quiet, peaceful spaces, the architect designed a layout with strong horizontal and vertical connectivity. This approach encourages communication and interaction among residents, while also integrating natural elements to foster coexistence with nature.
The architects specifically aimed to create seamless connections between all spaces, allowing natural elements to permeate every corner of the home. Without violating building codes or regulations, the design avoids unnecessary spaces by dividing the private residence into two parts: one half is open and simple, accommodating sunlight, rain, breeze, and greenery; the other half addresses daily household functions with minimal facilities.
▲ First floor plan
Architecture is often described as a living entity. In this project, the architect installed windows on all four sides and created a vertical connection between the home and the sky. This design allows natural light to fill the interior at all times, enabling residents to experience daily changes in sunlight and weather. The building transforms from a static object into a dynamic, self-sustaining environment.
Thanks to the vertical spatial design, residents maintain a close relationship with nature inside their homes. The vertical gaps also facilitate visual connections among family members throughout the house. This design aims to foster a harmonious bond between humans and nature, promoting healing for the souls of urban dwellers. As Van Gogh famously said, “If you truly love nature, you will find beauty everywhere.”
Project Drawings
▲ Location Map
▲ General Layout Plan
▲ Second Floor Plan
▲ Third Floor Plan
▲ Roof Floor Plan
▲ Roof Plan
▲ Front Facade
▲ Side Facade
▲ Sectional Drawing AA
▲ Sectional Drawing BB
Project Information
Project Type: Independent Residential Building
Location: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Architect: MIA Design Studio
Year: 2019
Photographers: Trieu Chien, Oki Hiroyuki, Hoang Le
Lead Architect: Nguyen Hoang Manh
Conceptual Design: Truong Nguyen Quoc Trung, Nguyen Tan Phat
Interior Design: Le Vu Hai Trieu
Technical Design: Bui Hoang Bao, Nguyen Quang Duy
Structural Consultant: AVDH
Mechanical and Electrical Consultant: Boydens Engineering Vietnam
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