native bamboo + rattan clad 'chi-bu' resort by o9 design studio in vietnam

o9 design studio, introduces ‘chi-bu’ resort, located on the banks of the ong keo river, outside of saigon, vietnam. the expansive site is formed encouraging visitors to decompress and regenerate, amid the lush surroundings, away from the neighboring urban zones. the building is constructed with locally sourced materials, fusing traditional techniques with leading edge design philosophies.

all images courtesy of o9 design studio

the ‘chi-bu’ resort by o9 design studio comprises seven bungalows overlooking the river and wild gardens, as well as a riverfront restaurant-bar, and a freshwater swimming pool. the bungalows are designed to harvest the natural light and distribute it evenly around the rooms. symbiosis with the verdant landscape is achieved blurring the boundary between exterior and interior, generating a sense of boundlessness, increasingly hard to come by in the verticality of the city.

broad, hinged patio doors fully open to extend the rooms towards the river’s edge, without reducing floorspace. traditional bamboo ladders invite guests to take a dip in the secluded stretch of the river. outdoor shower rooms host tropical plant beds, with the foliage being framed by internal bedroom windows. meanwhile, high ceilings maximize daylight and fresh air circulation.

the restaurant is toped by a tall pyramid-shaped ceiling, covered with handcrafted shichito matgrass panels and punctuated by ornate palm leaf blade ceiling fans. handmade tiles employ striking geometric motifs, responding to traditional rattan weaving patterns of the mekong river, while the roofs are locally thatched using coconut palm leaves.

furniture, windows, shutters, door frames and joinery were all custom-designed by by o9 design studio, and fabricated with native wood, bamboo and rattan by local artisans. the overarching concepts of clarity, comfort and expansiveness are accentuated in the thoughtful choices of furnishings and fittings. the bond between untamed landscape and architectural design forges a haven where nature is highlighted as the protagonist.

project info:

name: chi-bu riverside resort

architects: o9 design studio

area: 2000sqm (21 528 sqft)

location: vietnam

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edited by: christina petridou | designboom