The CORE Office by AD+studio: A Harmonious Blend of Tradition and Modernity

The CORE Office by AD+studio is a striking example of adaptive reuse in architecture, seamlessly integrating traditional design elements with contemporary functionality. Nestled in Hao Sy Phuong, a century-old alley in Cho Lon, Vietnam, this project breathes new life into a historic shophouse while preserving its cultural essence.

Preserving the Architectural Heritage of Cho Lon

Originally built over 100 years ago, the shophouses in Cho Lon were established by Chinese merchants who infused their architectural identity into the urban fabric of Saigon. Over the decades, many of these structures have been demolished or extensively modified, losing their original character. However, Hao Sy Phuong remains one of the few areas where the traditional courtyard-centered layout is still intact. This renovation by AD+studio honors the architectural heritage while adapting the space for modern use.

The Spatial Composition: A Courtyard-Centric Design

The two-story shophouse follows a modular design, centered around a shared courtyard, a feature that not only enhances natural ventilation and daylight penetration but also fosters communal interaction. Within each unit, an internal atrium serves as a secondary lightwell, mitigating the narrow and elongated floor plan typical of traditional shophouses. This dual-courtyard approach is a reflection of the Chinese architectural philosophy that emphasizes connectivity and harmony in living spaces.

Renovation Strategy: Revitalizing the Core

The renovation centers on the atriums—THE CORES—, reinforcing their role as natural ventilation shafts and daylight sources. By leveraging these voids, AD+studio optimizes indoor air circulation while maintaining thermal comfort.

At the front, the office directly connects to the courtyard, incorporating traditional architectural elements to maintain visual continuity with the neighborhood. A tile roof, constructed using reclaimed materials from the original structure, serves a dual purpose:

• Minimizing heat radiation from above.
• Recreating the lost vernacular aesthetic of Vietnamese shophouses.

This area functions as a client meeting space, reinforcing the design philosophy of respecting the context and preserving cultural identity.

A Dialogue Between the Old and the New

At the rear, the workspace revolves around an internal atrium, creating a dynamic interplay between historic craftsmanship and contemporary minimalism. The renovation simplifies forms by:

• Eliminating decorative motifs.
• Blurring boundaries between floors, ceilings, and walls.
• Enhancing spatial fluidity through open-plan layouts.

This transformation introduces a distinctly modern workspace while maintaining reverence for the original structure.

The Mezzanine: A Flexible Co-Working Space

The mezzanine level offers a multi-functional space, doubling as a co-working zone and a resting area when needed. Importantly, 50% of this level is left open, forming a void that further enhances natural light penetration and airflow. This space reveals the original timber construction techniques, providing a glimpse into the past while fostering a sense of contemplation and focus.

Sustainability and Cultural Sensitivity in Adaptive Reuse

By reusing materials, maintaining passive design principles, and integrating historical elements, AD+studio successfully bridges the gap between heritage conservation and modern workspace efficiency. This project exemplifies how adaptive reuse can serve as a sustainable approach to urban development, ensuring that traditional structures remain relevant in contemporary architectural discourse

The CORE Office by AD+studio is more than a renovation—it is an architectural narrative that celebrates history while embracing innovation. By preserving cultural identity, enhancing functionality, and integrating sustainable design strategies, this project serves as an inspiring model for future adaptive reuse projects in Vietnam and beyond.