The architectural typology of the mixed-use urban house - In recent years, the rapid rise of property prices and economic development in combination with the increasing demand for shop and apartment renting have made mixed-use urban houses become more and more popular in Vietnam’s big cities. This architectural typology requires highly effective design solutions in terms of business model and program and also needs unique characteristics which are responsive to the context and fit with the occupants’ lifestyle.

A 6-level townhouse located on an 80 square meter land lot in the main street in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam is a typical example of the architectural typology of the mixed-use urban house in Vietnam’s cities. The building was designed to comprise a variety of different uses inside, including shared and service spaces; a small commercial space; and 6 fully-furnished rental studios in the lower three levels in combination with a 2-bedroom owner’s home on the top two levels.

A house is considered an organic ecosystem - The design concept is inspired by the formation of a growing tree. The tree root is similar to the building’s foundation with 25-meter deep piling, the lowest part of the trunk accommodates the shop and the entrance, the studios build up the tree trunk with leafy cantilevered balconies just like tree branches, the big tree canopy on top is imaginably formed by a double-high pergola and the owner’s home’s big terraces, this is also the focal point of the overall architectural form.

In this unique Tree-House, the tenants give a stable income to the owner, the owner warmly welcomes and supports the tenants every day. Each person has privacy and independence while living in his or her space, and they altogether take care of the shared spaces, ensure safety and security, and enjoy living together under one roof. The occupants create a closely-bound and supportive community just like a harmonious and diverse organic ecosystem in nature.

Architecture connected with nature - The floor plans are designed with the circulation core at the center and habitable spaces at the front and rear. The 3.5-meter setback forms a courtyard at the front, a bike and bicycle parking area is located at the rear, next to a backyard. The front and rear voids engage sufficient natural ventilation and daylight into the rooms. Rustic and natural-friendly materials such as exposed concrete ceiling and terrazzo floor are harmoniously combined with recyclable wooden joinery and glazing.

The facade consists of zig-zagging walls finished in sand-washed paint which effectively reflect the sound, reduce the noise from the busy street, and are also visually related to the ridges of tree bark. Diverse landscape spaces are placed throughout the facade in form of planters and balconies. The two top levels are attached with leafy gardens and a vine-covered pergola which minimizes the direct sunlight. From there, a spiral stair leads to a secret rooftop garden with a panorama view of the city. All these design elements have created a vibrant connection between architecture and nature.

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