Sustainable Architecture in Vietnam: The 99 Mai Thuc Loan House by Cong Sinh Architects

The 99 Mai Thuc Loan House, designed by Cong Sinh Architects, is a perfect example of sustainable architecture in Vietnam that seamlessly blends modern design with natural elements, responding to both environmental and human needs. Located in the bustling commercial area of Hue City, this residential project offers an insightful exploration of how architecture can integrate nature, privacy, and community within a confined urban space. Built for a family of three, the house spans 82 m² and was completed in 2023.

Introduction: Sustainable Design in Urban Vietnam

In the face of rapid urbanization and growing environmental concerns, sustainable architecture in Vietnam has become more crucial than ever. The 99 Mai Thuc Loan House is a testament to how architecture can adapt to the local climate, respond to family dynamics, and foster a strong connection with nature, all while promoting sustainability. Designed as a tube house, a popular type of housing in Vietnam, this home creatively integrates cooling systems, natural light, and sustainable materials that make it energy-efficient and environmentally conscious.

The Architectural Vision: Connecting People, Nature, and the Home

Cong Sinh Architects’ design for this sustainable architecture project focuses on three key relationships: people to people, people to nature, and people to the house itself.

People to People: Fostering Generational Connections

The house design prioritizes the relationship between family members, particularly the elderly couple and their daughter. By placing the elderly couple’s bedroom on the ground floor at the back of the house, the architects ensure privacy while still allowing easy access for their daughter. This arrangement enables the daughter to quickly attend to her parents, promoting safety and well-being. The central area of the house, designed as an open kitchen and dining room, becomes the heart of the home, where the family comes together. This space is bathed in natural light, thanks to a strategically placed skylight, and offers a direct connection to the activities happening throughout the house.

People to Nature: Maximizing Natural Light and Ventilation

One of the most innovative aspects of this home is how it connects with its natural surroundings. Despite being located on a noisy and busy street, the house provides a sanctuary filled with natural light and fresh air. The building opens up to the Southeast, allowing the cool breeze to flow through the house, thanks to large windows and open-plan spaces. The concrete louver system on the facade helps filter out harmful sun rays while allowing soft morning light to enter, contributing to the house’s energy efficiency. Additionally, the thick stone walls and roof offer excellent thermal insulation, keeping the house cool even during the hot summer months, reducing the need for air conditioning.

The presence of skylights further enhances the relationship with nature, ensuring that natural light reaches every corner of the home. These small but significant design choices demonstrate how sustainable architecture can create comfortable, energy-efficient living spaces in urban environments.

People to the House: A Safe and Secure Environment

The 99 Mai Thuc Loan House serves as a protective and nurturing environment for its inhabitants. The design feels intimate and secure, much like a cave, offering both a physical and psychological sense of safety. The cool, quiet interior spaces allow the family to unwind and rest fully, promoting healthy living and overall well-being. In terms of materials, the house uses Hue’s black stone, a local stone often overlooked in favor of imported materials. This stone offers not only durability and a connection to the region’s heritage but also a tactile quality that fosters a sense of warmth and comfort. The building feels like a custom-tailored “shirt” for the family, where every dimension and space is carefully considered for the members’ unique needs.

Sustainable Materials and Technologies: Eco-Friendly Choices

A standout feature of the 99 Mai Thuc Loan House is its use of locally sourced materials and sustainable construction techniques. The use of black stone, a material native to Hue, helps reduce the ecological footprint of the house by supporting local industries and reducing the demand for imported materials. This commitment to sustainability extends to the integration of a louvered facade, which not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also plays a crucial role in regulating indoor temperatures and minimizing energy consumption.

Additionally, the house incorporates edible plants and fish farming, offering the family a chance to grow their own food while enhancing the greenery around the home. These elements contribute to the overall ecological balance, making the house not just a shelter but a sustainable living system.

 A Model for Sustainable Architecture in Vietnam

The 99 Mai Thuc Loan House is an exemplary model of sustainable architecture in Vietnam, showcasing how thoughtful design can foster a deeper connection between people, nature, and their homes. By incorporating energy-efficient strategies, locally sourced materials, and a focus on family relationships, Cong Sinh Architects have created a home that promotes well-being and sustainability in an urban setting.

As urban centers in Vietnam continue to grow, the principles demonstrated in this house offer valuable insights for future architectural projects. By embracing sustainable design solutions, homes can provide both comfort and environmental responsibility, creating spaces that nurture not just the residents but also the world around them.

All photographs are work of Hiroyuki Oki