Ashui Pavilion 2023 by MIA Design Studio – A Symbol of Flow and Cultural Identity Along the Saigon River

The Ashui Pavilion 2023, designed by MIA Design Studio, is a temporary architectural installation located along the banks of the Saigon River in An Phu, Vietnam. More than just an event venue, the pavilion reflects Vietnam’s deep cultural connection with rivers while honoring architectural creativity through the annual Ashui Awards.

The Cultural and Historical Significance of the Saigon River

Vietnamese history and urban development have always been tied to rivers, which act as lifelines for both spirituality and economy. The Saigon River, in particular, has been central to the growth of Ho Chi Minh City, shaping its identity and cultural landscape. For this reason, it was chosen as the symbolic backdrop for the Ashui Pavilion 2023, celebrating the country’s architects and their contributions to the community.

Design Concept and Inspiration

MIA Design Studio embraced the idea of flow, lightness, and impermanence, drawing inspiration from the natural movement of rivers and the joyful imagery of Vietnamese children playing in village streams.

The pavilion was constructed on an empty urban plot bordered by neighboring walls, facing the Thanh Da Peninsula. Instead of imposing on its context, the design integrates with both the urban setting and the river’s rhythm.

By using fabric stretched across scaffolding frames, the architects created a lightweight and dynamic structure. Gravity shaped the fabric into a gentle wave-like form, with the highest point marking the exhibition space and the descending edges framing the stage and audience area.

Spatial Experience

Walking into the pavilion is designed to feel like entering a river’s current. Visitors pass beneath billowing white fabric layers that sway with the wind, creating streaks of filtered light. This ever-changing interplay of movement, shadow, and openness enhances the immersive quality of the pavilion.

The entrance experience requires lifting the soft fabric to step inside, a deliberate gesture that separates everyday urban life from the temporary cultural sanctuary. Inside, guests encounter a sequence of spaces—open, fluid, and constantly shifting with natural forces.

Sustainability and Temporary Architecture

The Ashui Pavilion 2023 was built under a limited budget and timeframe, but with a strong focus on sustainability. All scaffolding structures and materials were borrowed locally and later dismantled for reuse, ensuring no permanent environmental impact. Once disassembled, the land was restored to its original condition, leaving no trace behind.

This approach reflects not only economic efficiency but also environmental responsibility, aligning with global calls for circular design practices in architecture.

A Celebration of Vietnamese Architecture and Community

The pavilion became the stage for the Ashui Awards 2023, a prestigious event recognizing architects who contribute positively to Vietnam’s built environment. More than a venue, the project itself stood as a symbol of unity, memory, and cultural flow, resonating deeply with both visitors and the community.

By merging tradition, innovation, and sustainability, MIA Design Studio demonstrated how temporary architecture can leave a lasting impact without permanent physical presence.

All the photographs are works of Trieu Chien