truong an architecture designs modern stilt house for artist in saigon, vietnam

truong an architecture has completed a new home for artist hoang tuong do, in the outskirts of saigon, vietnam. the site itself is separated from the road by a canal connecting to saigon river. a small bridge crosses the canal and leads to lower ground. given the location, the main concept of the project is to create a modern stilt house. the layout includes two rectangular blocks with two natural ponds connected directly to the canal. due to changing water levels, the ground floor has been raised 1.8 m above normal ground level, giving the impression of a building on stilts.

front elevation, all images by hiroyuki oki

the outdoor staircase is designed by truong an as a sculpture connecting to the patio. this patio is an important space as it acts as the transition between interior and exterior. the use of materials with a light structure is selected to help reduce loading on the weak ground as well keeping building costs low. the corrugated iron roof with two layers enhances ventilation and reduces noise to the bedrooms. the large atrium in the interior offers good views and connection to other indoor spaces and toward nature outside. the floor-to ceiling window system allows sunlight and fresh air to all rooms. the black-painted iron louver system covers the second floor elevation to control light into building but also maintains the privacy of bedrooms while creating a unique feature of the house.

living space – the atrium

the furniture is carefully designed to fit with the concept of the house. in the studio, the ribbon windows are used at the top and bottom of the wall for ventilation, leaving the main space for drawings. the whole area is filled with light thanks to the large roof glazing across the length of the building. by using simple lines, and embracing light and fresh air, this design by truong an architecture blends individual elements to create a tranquil home and effective space for art.

view from the canal

the drawing studio

side elevation

view from the canal at night

the office

a relaxing corner

cast-in-place staircase

the studio’s entrance

section

diagram

project info:

architect: truong an architecture

location: saigon, vietnam

area: 300 m2

project year: 2017

photographs: hiroyuki oki

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.