In the aftermath of the pandemic, people have increasingly sought peaceful retreats and fresh air to relax both body and mind. They yearn to reconnect with nature and embrace life’s simple pleasures. Ruan Cafe was born from this desire, “shyly” nestled amid natural mountains and forests. Its roof rises like a delicate curtain, gently draping over the landscape and filtering soft light, allowing visitors beneath the eaves to feel a close bond with nature.
The building’s floors, columns, and roof are crafted entirely from natural materials, complemented by subtle lighting that creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere for guests. The almost circular glass exterior wall blurs the line between indoors and outdoors, preserving the surrounding natural beauty. The structure neither intrudes nor retreats from nature; it rests lazily under the sun and among the clouds, embodying a place where people can gather, connect, and create their own stories.
The roof system is composed of three distinct layers:
The first layer features transparent corrugated iron sheets. This layer softens the harshness of direct sunlight while ensuring ample natural light penetrates indoors. It also offers a subtle glimpse of the sky through the gaps, creating a tranquil ambiance for those below.
The second layer consists of opaque, wavy-textured iron sheets. It shelters key areas by blocking out rain and light completely.
The third layer is crafted from natural wood, which dampens noise, provides insulation, and casts beautiful patterns of light and shadow—inviting more visitors to relax and enjoy the space.
– The entire column grid system is constructed from pure natural wood, evoking a rustic, wild, and locally-inspired feel.
– The floor system is also made of natural wood, harmonizing seamlessly with the core tube, wooden shell, columns, and roof to create a unified architectural expression.
The design of Ruan Cafe is thoughtfully integrated with the natural terrain, ensuring no disruption to the local ecosystem. Even if the building is eventually dismantled, the site can be fully restored to its original natural state.
Project Drawings
△ General Layout Plan
△ Section Diagram
△ Section Diagram
Project Information
Architect: The Bloom
Area: 1,100 square meters
Project Year: 2022
Photographer: Hiroyuki Oki
Lead Architect: Dinh Anh Tuan
Design Team: Dinh Anh Tuan, Pham Huu Loc
Owner: Nguyen
Construction: Dinh Anh Tuan
Architect: The Bloom
Landscape Design: The Natural Scenery
Location: Paul City, Vietnam
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