CHP House by BALEINE Architectes: A Harmonious Dialogue Between Tradition and Modernity in Vietnam

Located on the serene outskirts of Hanoi, Vietnam, CHP House by BALEINE Architectes redefines the idea of a weekend retreat. Completed in early 2023, this 600-square-meter residence blends the spirit of traditional Vietnamese architecture with contemporary design sensibilities—creating a living space that is both sustainably rooted and refreshingly modern.

Contextual Design Rooted in Nature

Perched on gently sloping terrain that leads to a nearby lake, CHP House is carefully positioned at a lower elevation than its surroundings. This strategic placement mitigates environmental concerns such as moisture buildup and termite infestation, while respecting the natural contours of the land.

To reduce site disturbance and promote effective drainage, the house is elevated on a column system, allowing water to flow naturally beneath the structure without requiring an intrusive drainage network. The design tactfully integrates existing mature fruit trees, alongside newly planted native vegetation, ensuring the home nestles seamlessly within its lush green surroundings. Views of the lake and garden are amplified through open visual axes and the thoughtful placement of verandas, patios, and balconies.

Fusion of Traditional and Contemporary Materials

One of the home’s most striking features is its sensitive material palette. CHP House evokes a timeless quality through the use of local, traditional materials like Bat Trang tiles, laterite bricks, masonry walls, and enameled floor tiles—all well-known in Northern Vietnamese heritage construction. These are elegantly paired with modern elements such as steel framing, unburnt bricks, insulated glass, and ultralight roofing sheets.

This combination not only ensures thermal comfort and durability but also gives the house a visually lightweight yet grounded appearance—promoting both natural ventilation and a strong architectural identity.

Spatial Organization and Traditional Vietnamese Influence

The spatial layout draws heavily from vernacular Vietnamese housing typologies, particularly the “three-space” house model. At the heart of the residence is a large central courtyard, which connects seamlessly with the kitchen and dining areas—designed as a communal space for everyday use and festive gatherings. This courtyard serves as both a functional core and social nucleus, ideal for seasonal activities such as drying rice or family celebrations.

The house consists of three main volumes, with the central block resembling a nave-like worship space, flanked by wings that house the living and sleeping quarters. Each bedroom and functional space has access to its own private yard or garden, offering moments of quiet reflection, intimacy with nature, and spatial independence.

Circulation is enhanced through a network of open-air corridors, shaded terraces, and viewing platforms. Whether inside the house or outside in the garden, there are countless opportunities for rest, leisure, and connection with the landscape—from the belvedere and pool to the rooftop deck and courtyards.

A House that Inspires a Gentle Way of Living

From its meticulous craftsmanship to the immersive relationship it fosters with the outdoors, CHP House is more than a weekend getaway—it is an embodiment of slow living, architectural storytelling, and familial warmth. Every corner, from the beamed interiors to the sun-dappled balconies, is designed to cultivate serenity, contemplation, and joy.

This project reflects BALEINE Architectes' commitment to context-sensitive design, where tradition and innovation coalesce into a unified spatial experience. CHP House is a retreat that offers comfort, beauty, and a return to nature, all while subtly elevating the language of contemporary Vietnamese architecture.

All Photographs are works of Tuan Bui