Hien Nguyen, associate director at MCW Architects, on Ho Chi Minh City, where her family has lived for the last ten years.
Formerly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) has been extraordinary in its speed of transformation in recent years. For the last ten years or so, while my family has been living there, I have been fortunate to witness HCMC’s growth into one of the most bustling metropolises in Asia. I’ve witnessed the intermingling of its colonial legacy, its embrace of traditional Vietnamese motifs, and soaring modern skyline. So, apart from the diverse architectural landscape, what else can we learn from the East?
If you ever visit the city, you’d be struck by the busy streetscape: shops and houses open directly onto vibrant thoroughfares, fostering a unique sense of community. This lively urban fabric, characterised by the dynamic of its street life and the vivacity of social interactions, creates a strong sense of connection between residents. Sidewalks brim with street vendors, creating a symphony of sights, sounds and smells that awaken the senses. Open storefronts and homes encourage spontaneous interaction, promoting belonging and shared identity.
HCMC’s community feel plays a crucial role in supporting the mental health of its residents. Human beings are inherently social creatures, and a sense of social connectedness is essential for our wellbeing. The constant presence of others in the public realm offers tactile and psychological companionship and support, reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation. Engaging in friendly banter, sharing stories, and witnessing the hustle and bustle of daily life can uplift spirits and promote a positive mindset. Additionally, the sensory stimulation of the streetscape can act as a distraction from personal worries and anxieties, providing a mental respite. The accessibility of shops, cafés, and community spaces along the streets creates opportunities for individuals to participate in community events, meet friends, and engage in leisurely pursuits.
HCMC is home to a captivating patchwork of architectural styles, where the juxtaposition of diverse designs creates a visually dynamic and ever-evolving urban landscape. What sets the city apart is not only the coexistence of different architectural influences but also the adaptability and flexibility embedded within its built environment. Walking through the city, one witnesses the blend of colonial-era buildings with modern skyscrapers, traditional Vietnamese structures, and contemporary designs. This unique juxtaposition reflects the city’s ability to embrace change while honouring its rich heritage. HCMC’s architecture demonstrates adaptability in its ability to incorporate new elements while preserving the old.
Buildings are often transformed, repurposed, and reinvented to accommodate changing functions and lifestyles. A historic French colonial villa might now house a trendy café, while an old warehouse might be reborn as a vibrant art gallery. This adaptability breathes new life into the city, making every street corner an opportunity for architectural surprises.
Hiding on a quaint street near Ben Thanh market in District 1 is the Museum of Fine Arts. The structure bears the hallmarks of the French Indochinese architectural style, and the elegant façade features intricate detailing and ornate balconies. This Art Deco mansion used to be the residence of Hui Bon Hoa, one of Saigon’s most successful entrepreneurs. It now houses collections of Vietnamese art works in sculpture, oil, silk painting and lacquer painting, as well as traditional works, such as woodcut paintings in the Hang Trong and Dong Ho styles. The building’s captivating interiors, spacious galleries, high ceilings and gracefully arched windows invite natural daylight to dance upon the art collections within.
The city’s urban fabric is in fact characterised by its permeability, with narrow alleyways (known as ‘hém’) weaving through the dense urban fabric. These alleys create an intricate network that connects the city, while serving as vibrant social spaces, accommodating small businesses, homes, and communal gathering areas.
The fusion of colonial influences, traditional Vietnamese aesthetics, and contemporary design paints a picture of a city that embraces its diverse heritage, while looking towards a progressive future. The juxtaposition and adaptability reflect HCMC’s resilience and ability to embrace change. It showcases a built environment that can transform and evolve alongside the needs and aspirations of its inhabitants. This dynamic nature encourages innovation, creativity, and a sense of possibility, making HCMC an architectural playground where the old and the new coexist in harmony.
Source: Architecture Today
