‘september cafe’ in vietnam reinterprets bird’s nest using steel strips

red5studio has collaborated with ben decor to design ‘september cafe – the wind blows’, a store that is positioned on a plot between two houses in ho chi minh city, vietnam. the project takes shape as a bird nest while round hanging elements in the facade reinterpret bird’s movement on the branches when the wind blows. the architects sought to generate a sense of familiarity, reminding visitors of the feeling of september.all images courtesy of phu dao

multiple curved steel strips frame the entrance, stairs, and balconies to recount the image of the branches that create a nest. gentle neutral colors like white, beige, and pink-orange clad the walls, furniture, and the ceiling. red5studio formed the interior with arches, round openings, and circle staircases to create a feeling of breeze spreading into every corner. the outdoor spaces unravel following the character of the indoor utilizing the same color and material palette, creating a feeling of ‘indoor but outdoor’.

circle openings that penetrate the walls bring plenty of natural light in, while there are spots with vegetation that take shape as indoor balconies. apart from the furniture drawing from bird’s nests and branches, the multiple levels provide a playful touch to the interior. the outdoor area on the ground level —suitable for guests that want to stay for a short time— brings ‘the garden into the house’, while the 2nd and 3rd-floor areas are for visitors who stay longer or go in groups.

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project info:

name: september coffee

architects: red5studio

design: ben decor

design team: integrity again, nhi bay, tran thi kim duyen, pham hoang duy nhan

location: ho chi minh city, vietnam

area: 260 sqm (2798 sqft)

client: september saigon