Vietnam is recognized as a World Cultural Heritage site due to its rich natural resources and vibrant urban landscapes. This status has boosted local tourism and accelerated urban economic growth. However, rapid urbanization has also led to careless clearing of natural resources. This project aims to foster a deeper connection and interaction between humans and nature.
The project is situated in Ha Long, a picturesque northern coastal city located 160 kilometers from Hanoi. Ha Long is notable for its thriving fishing and mining industries, while also being a favored destination for tourists amid Vietnam’s growing national tourism sector.
Located close to Ha Long Bay, the residence offers residents stunning views of countless rocks scattered along the shoreline. The architect designed this private home to be sustainable and to harmonize with the natural surroundings, seamlessly integrating into the landscape. The goal is for residents to experience the sensation of living within the jungle itself.
△ Exploded axonometric diagram
To craft this unique spatial experience, the architect employed two nested pentagonal planes, creating a combination of interior and semi-interior spaces that invite greenery inside. This semi-interior space serves as a cooling and soundproof buffer, ideal for residents living in tropical rainforest climates. A central spiral staircase connects these spaces, guiding the transition from exterior to interior, ground to rooftop, and from urban views to lush jungle surroundings.
This semi-indoor transitional area also acts as a versatile space supporting daily activities. It functions as a garden, a place to relax and enjoy views, and an inviting spot for strolling and socializing. This design ensures that even when staying home, residents experience the joy of outdoor living. Window openings within this semi-indoor space further connect the inhabitants with the surrounding community environment.
The exterior façade is crafted from rough concrete, echoing the variety of rocks found along the bay. The greenery inside the semi-indoor space casts dynamic shadows on the surface, creating a harmonious dialogue between architecture and nature. Thanks to rooftop landscaping, the residence features significantly more green space than its footprint would typically allow.
This private residence can be seen as a modern “treehouse,” designed to bring natural elements back into urban living and provide residents with a healthier, more comfortable environment. Its simple yet effective spatial design can be adapted to other tropical regions. Nestled within Ha Long City’s landscape, this home offers its inhabitants an immersive experience of greenery and nature amid the urban concrete jungle.
Design Drawings
△ First floor plan
△ Second floor plan
△ Third floor plan
△ Fourth floor plan
△ Fifth floor plan
△ Sixth floor plan
△ Section 1
△ Section 2
Project Information
Project Type: Independent Residential Building
Location: Ha Long, Vietnam
Architectural Firm: Wu Zhongyi Architectural Firm
Area: 1,190 m²
Year: 2020
Photographer: Hiroyuki Oki
Lead Architect: Wu Zhongyi
Project Team: Nguyen Van Thu
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