NAM Coffee by G+ Architects: A Sustainable Garden Café in Bien Hoa, Vietnam

Located in the rapidly developing city of Bien Hoa, NAM Coffee by G+ Architects is a striking example of sustainable café architecture that harmonizes nature, community, and flexible design. Completed in 2022, this 1200 m² coffee shop redefines the relationship between built form and landscape by transforming a pre-existing garden into a vibrant social hub.

Design Concept: Inspired by Organic Growth

The concept of NAM Coffee, inspired by the growth of mushrooms, is expressed through a series of cylindrical volumes distributed across the site. Rather than clearing the land, the architects carefully preserved existing trees, mapping their positions before introducing built structures. This nature-first strategy ensures minimal environmental disruption while enhancing spatial richness.

Each cylindrical block houses a distinct function, including dining spaces, kitchen areas, restrooms, and flexible zones for co-working, meetings, and workshops. The modular approach allows for future expansion, reflecting the organic and adaptive nature of mushroom growth, an innovative strategy in contemporary café architecture.

Spatial Experience and Circulation

The project emphasizes experiential movement through layered pathways. A network of ponds and streams guides visitors organically through the site, while interconnected staircases and varied levels create a sense of exploration. The contrast in scale between volumes enhances spatial drama, offering both intimate corners and open communal areas.

Natural light plays a key role in defining the ambiance. Perforated brick walls and patterned tile openings filter sunlight, creating dynamic shadows throughout the day. At night, artificial lighting transforms the café into a glowing landscape embedded within greenery.

Materiality and Sustainability

NAM Coffee embraces locally sourced materials such as red bricks, stream rocks, and paving stones, many of which were pre-collected by the client. This approach reduces construction waste and reinforces the project’s sustainable ethos. Most spaces are naturally ventilated and open-air, minimizing the need for air conditioning and lowering energy consumption.

The rooftops of the cylindrical structures double as accessible terraces, allowing visitors to engage closely with the surrounding tree canopy. This vertical extension enhances the spatial experience while maintaining a strong connection to nature.

A Community-Centered Green Oasis

Beyond its architectural innovation, NAM Coffee serves as a rare green retreat in a fast-urbanizing neighborhood near the Amata Bien Hoa industrial zone. Designed during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, the project reflects resilience and adaptability.

Rather than functioning solely as a commercial café, it acts as a community-oriented space: encouraging social interaction, creativity, and relaxation. The integration of flexible spaces ensures that the café can host diverse activities, from casual gatherings to workshops and events.

NAM Coffee stands as a benchmark in sustainable café design, blending architecture with ecology and community needs. By preserving nature, embracing modular growth, and prioritizing user experience, G+ Architects have created a timeless and adaptive architectural environment.

All photographs are works of  Quang Tran