Modern architectural design suitable for the Vietnamese climate

Modern architectural design is a popular trend. Therefore, it is easy to learn and refer to a lot of knowledge about contemporary architecture with impressive form. However, with Vietnam’s distinctly seasonal humid tropical climate, copying architecture models must be considered and adjusted appropriately. In addition, it is also necessary to pay attention to the comfort factor and to harmonise with the local climatic conditions.

Humans live in the natural environment. Whether you realise it or not, the need to touch, breathe fresh air, and be close and comfortable in the heart of natural space is always motivating. However, excellent thermal comfort is not the only need. Enjoying the area with the five senses creates a much better living comfort. Enjoying a fresh breeze, moderate humidity, and no noise… in an intimate green living space is great.

In Vietnam, the climate varies markedly between regions. The South has two seasons of sunshine and rain and a high average temperature throughout the year. The North has a distinct four-season climate. The Central region has sweltering summers and cold monsoon winters. Architectural design poses a complicated and interesting problem: How can people live in an environmentally friendly space while still enjoying stable climate comforts before adverse weather and high volatility?

Some popular Architecture solutions:
Design the courtyard space
The courtyard is an effective solution for ventilation and thermal stability. The atrium courtyard creates heat convection air flow for the surrounding spaces. This space is located indoors, so it is less affected by the outside climate. The courtyard roof needs a good design that can both take in light & cover the rain and insulate it.

The air circulation is mainly vertical axis (vertical axis) and horizontal axis, through the house from front to back or through the rooms. It is advisable to arrange a reasonable common space & private room to create air circulation from front to back of the house. Besides, creating a high floor space for the living room will be good.

Awning/corridor to protect from rain and sun
The thermally stable solution is suitable for both cold air and hot climates. The veranda creates a buffer space that protects from rain and sun and stabilises indoor & outdoor temperatures. Under the rain eaves, the water drops also form a poetic element.

Details of the door handle sunshade, ventilation, and sound insulation following the primary and secondary priority needs. Ventilation doors that do not need soundproofing should be used with bar/louvre doors. Doors that need good light and sound insulation should use aluminium windows with glass… Consider using double-layer doors if necessary.

The combination of the buffer space of the corridor/roof is cleverly created to create a unique architectural space. Create architectural accents or create a cover with a different form…

Using natural materials
The design process should prioritise incorporating locally available natural materials to create interest. You can use gravel, tile, and brick… mainly because you know how to combine them into the design. However, do not overuse natural materials. You should only use a contrasting array or places that are easy to clean and maintain.

Flexible open and closed space design
With modern architectural designs, closed rooms are not a good design. The spaces must be linked to maintaining the family connection and creating the necessary coolness. Designers need to layout and shape separate and common areas appropriately. Areas that need to be closed and areas that can be opened link with other spaces. This also helps to regulate the flow of air in the house.

Arrange plants
Trees are lungs that help purify the air. The arrangement of indoor plants should consider the care of plants and the hygiene of the foliage season as well as other factors such as insects, worms, etc. Unfortunately, many homeowners are not ready to take care of indoor plants.

When arranging trees, it is necessary to consider the type of tree, and the degree of sun-loving following the layout, avoid placing many plants in the bedroom, and avoid plants with strong-smelling flowers …
Ideally, people should choose buffer spaces, public spaces or sun-facing facades to combine insulation.

The planting area must also be well-ventilated, avoiding narrow corners with high humidity that quickly accumulates to attract insects and mosquitoes. Above are some solutions to design modern architecture suitable for Vietnam’s harsh seasonal tropical climate. Hopefully, you will have a lovely home soon.