Nha Dao Buoc House: A Tropical Climate House Design by H-H Studio

The Nha Dao Buoc House in Da Nang, Vietnam, is a stunning example of tropical climate house design, crafted by the visionary architects at H-H Studio. This 251-square-meter house, completed in 2021, seamlessly blends fashion-forward design with sustainable architectural solutions, perfectly tailored to the region’s tropical weather. Lead architect Huy Tuan Huynh developed this space with the unique vision of creating a “catwalk-like” experience for its owner, a fashion enthusiast and close friend.

The Concept: A Fusion of Fashion and Architecture

The house’s design concept revolves around the idea of a central catwalk. Beginning at the ground level in the living room, the "catwalk" spirals upward around a central atrium, connecting all levels. The dynamic movement through this core creates ever-changing viewpoints, blending fashion-inspired elegance with functional design.

The central atrium also serves as a gallery-like space where the owner can display fashion posters or family photos on a pristine, three-story-high white wall. Floor-to-ceiling curtains in the kitchen allow the space to be transformed when required, further emphasizing its flexibility and modern appeal.

Maximizing Nature and Light in a Tropical Climate

To optimize the home for the tropical climate, several thoughtful design strategies were implemented:

1. Open LayoutsThe ground level features a 5 x 5.3-meter open space at the rear of the building. This area invites natural elements like sunlight, moonlight, and breezes, fostering a tranquil and relaxing atmosphere.
2. The ground level features a 5 x 5.3-meter open space at the rear of the building. This area invites natural elements like sunlight, moonlight, and breezes, fostering a tranquil and relaxing atmosphere.
3. Greenery IntegrationVertical gardens adorn the North-West and South-East facades, shielding the interiors from intense sunlight while filtering air and noise pollution from the streets.
4. Vertical gardens adorn the North-West and South-East facades, shielding the interiors from intense sunlight while filtering air and noise pollution from the streets.
5. Natural VentilationThe house employs passive ventilation techniques, such as the “tropical boxes” on the roof. These innovative structures combine ventilation and lighting, allowing fresh air to circulate while bringing in daylight.
6. The house employs passive ventilation techniques, such as the “tropical boxes” on the roof. These innovative structures combine ventilation and lighting, allowing fresh air to circulate while bringing in daylight.
7. Double-Wythe Brick WallsSmall pipes embedded in the outer brick layers dissipate heat from the walls, ensuring a cooler interior even during peak summer months.
8. Small pipes embedded in the outer brick layers dissipate heat from the walls, ensuring a cooler interior even during peak summer months.
9. Thoughtful OrientationThe backyard's East-facing orientation captures cooling breezes, while strategically placed openings facilitate air circulation throughout the home.
10. The backyard's East-facing orientation captures cooling breezes, while strategically placed openings facilitate air circulation throughout the home.

The “Tropical Box”: A Unique Architectural Feature

A standout feature of the Nha Dao Buoc House is the "tropical box." These dual-function elements are akin to light scoops or cupolas. Each box includes:

• Ventilation Shutters: Adjustable panels that capture breezes or close during storms.
• Fixed Glass Panels: Allow natural light to penetrate interior spaces.
• Solid Facades: Provide protection where necessary.

Five tropical boxes punctuate the roof, enhancing airflow and reducing the reliance on mechanical cooling.

Material and Aesthetic Choices

The material palette emphasizes functionality and aesthetics:

• Locally sourced bricks and greenery contribute to thermal regulation and sustainability.
• Metal vertical bars enhance the facade’s visual appeal while providing shade and privacy.
• Minimalist interiors feature clean lines and modern furniture, reinforcing the connection between fashion and architecture.

Living in Harmony with Nature

The house’s design achieves a profound harmony with its surroundings. The owner can enjoy moonlit views through roof openings, while large windows invite sunlight and greenery into every corner. These design elements combine to create a serene retreat from urban chaos.

 A Benchmark for Tropical Climate House Design

The Nha Dao Buoc House by H-H Studio is more than just a residence; it’s a testament to sustainable living and innovative design. By prioritizing natural elements, passive ventilation, and an open, airy layout, the architects have created a model for tropical climate house design that is both functional and visually captivating.

This house exemplifies how architecture can seamlessly blend with fashion and the natural environment, setting a benchmark for sustainable and aesthetic living spaces in tropical regions.

All photographs are work of Hoang Le