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As rapid urbanization impacts Vietnam’s cities, the architects at Vo Trong Nghia (VTN) have successfully completed their Urban Agriculture Office. The scarcity of trees which has caused various social problems such as air pollution due to the excessive number of motorbikes, floods, and the heat island effect prompted this project to be built in memory of the untouched tropical forests that used to be scattered across the country.
In this context, the new generation in urban areas is losing their connection with nature. In addition, the country is facing changes as it transitions to a manufacturing-based economy, which has a devastating impact on the environment. Droughts, floods and salinization jeopardize food supplies.
Check out the unique green urban farming office returning to Ho Chi Minh City as reported by the following designboom!
Regreening cities and promoting food production
The Headquarters of VTN Architects, Urban farming office became an attempt to change the situation that occurred. The project’s goal is to restore green spaces and promote safe food production. This building was designed to reconnect with the site’s natural roots. Located in a newly developed area in Ho Chi Minh City, this office project demonstrates the possibilities of vertical office development. The façade consists of hanging planter boxes with a variety of local vegetation, allowing each plant to have sufficient sunlight. It is this green approach that will provide a safe food and cozy environment with minimal energy consumption, contributing to a sustainable future for cities.
Architectural strategy to combat environmental change
Overcoming the impact of bad environmental changes, there are several strategies that must be implemented. ‘Vertical Farming’ creates a comfortable microclimate throughout the building. Separated by layers of glass, vegetation filters direct sunlight and cleans the air. A rainwater collection system serves to water plants while naturally cooling the air through evaporation. On the north side, solid walls ensured the direction of future development of the building and small openings were arranged to improve cross ventilation.
The farming system is designed for vegetation by a simple construction method, consisting of concrete, steel racks and a modular planting box to hang there. The planter box is replaceable so it is very flexible according to the conditions of the plants to adapt to sunlight. There is a rooftop garden which gives a green level of up to 190% to the building area. All local plants in this area are edible, such as vegetables, herbs and fruit trees.
architect: VTN (Vo Trong Nghia Architects)
