G’day all! Ho Chi Minh City is a pretty amazing city. I’ve been there in the beginning of 2020 and was amazed with the variety of interesting architecture amidst the apparent chaos of the big city. We could definitely say it is Vietnam’s most cosmopolitan city.
In the bustling heart of Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), where concrete and steel towers dominate the skyline, an architectural marvel stands as a testament to innovative design and sustainable living. The Stacking Green House, designed by VTN Architects, emerges as an oasis within the urban jungle, harmoniously blending modern aesthetics with nature’s calming touch. This iconic structure challenges the conventions of urban architecture, showcasing how vertical gardens and sustainable principles can transform city living.
The building’s initial concept sketches. Source: https://vtnarchitects.net/stacking-green-pe208.html
The building’s main facade with its stacked gardens. Source: https://vtnarchitects.net/stacking-green-pe208.html
A Unique Concept
Designed by Vo Trong Nghia Architects, the Stacking Green House exemplifies their commitment to merging architecture and nature seamlessly. The concept revolves around utilizing vertical greenery to mitigate the concrete sprawl, enabling residents to experience a slice of nature’s serenity within the confines of urban living. The name itself – “Stacking Green” – alludes to the house’s layered green terraces that cascade down its façade.
The Stacking Green building section showing its sustainable strategies. Source: https://vtnarchitects.net/stacking-green-pe208.html
Greenery as a Design Element
The integration of lush greenery as an architectural element is at the heart of the Stacking Green House’s design. VTN Architects envisioned a dwelling that would not only provide a functional living space but also serve as a sanctuary where residents could connect with nature. The house is divided into three distinct layers, each adorned with verdant vegetation. Cascading vines, potted plants, and strategically positioned trees weave a harmonious tapestry of life, softening the rigid lines of the structure and creating an aesthetically pleasing contrast.
The house’s internal circulation with its stacked garden. Source: https://vtnarchitects.net/stacking-green-pe208.html
Vertical Gardens: More Than Aesthetic
The Stacking Green House’s vertical gardens are more than just an aesthetic choice; they hold immense environmental significance. In the heart of an urban environment, these green spaces act as natural air purifiers, filtering pollutants and improving air quality. The vegetation also provides shade, reducing heat absorption and creating a microclimate that offers a respite from the city’s scorching heat. Additionally, the plants play a role in noise reduction, absorbing sound and providing a serene acoustic environment amidst the hustle and bustle of city life.
One of the bedrooms of the house with view to the stacked garden. Source: https://vtnarchitects.net/stacking-green-pe208.html
Sustainable Living Embodied
VTN Architects’ commitment to sustainability is evident throughout the Stacking Green House’s design. The vertical gardens contribute to the building’s energy efficiency by providing natural insulation, reducing the need for excessive air conditioning. Rainwater harvesting systems capture and reuse water for irrigation, minimizing the house’s environmental footprint. Moreover, the creative use of local materials and construction techniques ensures that the house remains ecologically sensitive while also promoting the local economy.
Section diagram of the house with its green elements strategically positioned. Source: https://vtnarchitects.net/stacking-green-pe208.html
Blurring Boundaries: Indoor-Outdoor Fusion
One of the most captivating aspects of the Stacking Green House is its seamless integration of indoor and outdoor spaces. Large windows and sliding glass doors erase the boundaries between the interior and the lush exterior, creating a dynamic living environment that changes with the seasons. This fusion not only enhances the occupants’ connection to nature but also floods the interiors with natural light, reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day.
The house’s bathroom with view to the stacked garden. Source: https://vtnarchitects.net/stacking-green-pe208.html
A Tranquil Retreat Amidst the Urban Chaos
In the midst of Saigon’s urban chaos, the Stacking Green House stands as a tranquil retreat. The multi-tiered gardens provide residents with serene spaces for relaxation and reflection, promoting a balanced and peaceful lifestyle. Outdoor terraces become private oases, perfect for unwinding after a long day or entertaining guests in a natural, inviting setting. The soothing presence of greenery permeates every corner, nurturing the mind and soul in the midst of the city’s hustle.
The house’s rooftop area with its green roof. Source: https://vtnarchitects.net/stacking-green-pe208.html
Inspiring Future Urban Architecture
The Stacking Green House’s success lies not only in its innovative design but also in its potential to inspire a new approach to urban architecture. As cities grapple with issues of environmental degradation, air quality, and quality of life, this architectural gem showcases how blending nature with design can lead to sustainable solutions. The house beckons architects and urban planners to reimagine cities as spaces where human habitation and the natural world coexist harmoniously.
The house’s kitchen and living space with plenty of natural lighting. Source: https://vtnarchitects.net/stacking-green-pe208.html
Detail of the main facade with its stacked garden. Source: https://vtnarchitects.net/stacking-green-pe208.html
Conclusion
The Stacking Green House in Saigon by VTN Architects isn’t just a building; it’s a manifesto for a greener, more sustainable urban future. With its ingenious fusion of greenery, design, and functionality, this house redefines the boundaries of urban architecture. As it stands amidst the hustle of Saigon, it reminds us that amid the concrete and steel, there’s always room for nature to thrive and inspire. This iconic structure stands as a testament to the power of innovative design and sustainable living, reminding us that with creativity and vision, we can create urban sanctuaries that harmonize with the natural world. ♣
Important Sources:
https://vtnarchitects.net/stacking-green-pe208.html
https://www.archdaily.com/199755/stacking-green-vo-trong-nghia
