Vietnam's design revolution: small spaces, profound impact

Vietnam's design revolution: small spaces, profound impact

In the heart of Vietnam's design landscape, a quiet revolution is emerging - one that challenges global architectural norms by prioritising cultural sensitivity, environmental consciousness, and human connection over grand scale and commercial ambition. RMIT University Vietnam academic Dr Rachel Jahja explains.

Small-scale architecture in Vietnam represents more than just construction, it's a profound dialogue between space, environment, and cultural heritage. These intimate architectural ateliers are redefining sustainability not as a technical checkbox, but as a holistic approach deeply rooted in local context.

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Key design principles

Material authenticity stands at the core of this design philosophy. Architects are intentionally selecting local materials like breeze blocks and red clay tiles, creating direct references to Vietnamese cultural traditions while minimising environmental impact. This approach goes beyond mere aesthetic choice, it's a deliberate strategy of embedding cultural memory into physical spaces.

Environmental responsiveness is another critical aspect of these design practices. Each space is carefully conceived to address future ecological challenges, integrating natural cooling and ventilation techniques that work in harmony with Vietnam's unique climate. The designers prioritise environmental concerns in every design decision, transforming sustainability from an abstract concept into a tangible, lived experience.

Alt Text is not present for this image, Taking dc:title 'news-1-rachel jahja' Design is not about creating the largest structure, but about crafting spaces that resonate with human experience and environmental harmony. (Photo: AdobeStock - stock.adobe.com)

At the heart of this approach is a fundamentally human-centric perspective. These architects design for and with people, moving beyond creating mere aesthetic statements. Their spaces are crafted to evoke emotional responses, to create connections, and to respect the human experience in ways that transcend commercial metrics.

The inspirational lens

What sets these small-scale ateliers apart is their fundamental philosophy: design is not about creating the largest structure, but about crafting spaces that resonate with human experience and environmental harmony. When you enter these spaces, you get goosebumps - a testament to their profound emotional and cultural intelligence.

A call to action

For architects, designers, and urban planners worldwide, the Vietnamese model offers a compelling blueprint: sustainable design is an art of listening -- to the environment, to cultural narratives, and to human needs. It challenges the prevailing global narrative of design as a showcase of technological prowess or economic might.

Sustainability is not just about grand gestures. It is about consistent, small changes that collectively create significant impact. From individual behaviour to corporate strategy, every nudge counts.

Story: Dr Rachel Jahja, lecturer and Co-lead of Creativity, Heritage & Society Cluster, School of Communication & Design, RMIT Vietnam

Contact Dr Rachel Jahja for deeper insights into:

  • Design studio
  • Design theory
  • Interior design theory
  • Architectural practice

Please send your media enquiries to communications@rmit.edu.vn.

13 December 2024
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