1+1>2 completes cam thanh community center in hoi an city, vietnam

1+1>2 completes cam thanh community center in hoi an city, vietnam
all images courtesy of hoang thuc hao, vu xuan son

hoi an city, vietnam boasts a thriving ancient quarter complimented by a breath taking seashore. cam thanh, a small district in the southeast quadrant of the city, is just as brilliant. mangrove forests crisscross waterways, with abundant coconut trees and small dispersed villages. the area has everything necessary to succeed, except one thing. connection. while hoi an draws countless tourists, lack of transport between the two has left cam thanh overwhelming poor with a low standard of life.

the space can be modified to accommodate meetings, exhibitions, events, training sessions, and community meals 

the district was in critical need of a physical platform to act as a community hub. with a good system to provide linkage between different social, scientific, and economic groups, creating tourist opportunities with sustainable development initiatives would be considerably easier. the ‘cam thanh community center’ by 1+1>2 was design to fulfill that purpose. located in the commune’s core, the plan includes three buildings that flow continuously within their surroundings. 

‘cam thanh community house’ is expected to become an ideal rest stop for tourists

using flexible partitions, the space can be modified to accommodate a large number of events and exhibitions, and also has a library, training facilities, cafeteria, organic vegetable farm, areca garden, and sports field. the structure itself is simple, and efficiently takes advantage of local resources and materials. vines that hang across the garden, together with the coconut leaves roof, drastically reduces solar radiation while simultaneously providing shade. strong wood columns and bamboo supports the large roof. rainwater is collected by different means, and is reused in irrigation and daily activities. surrounding walls, made of double-layer adobe brick, insulate the space and help it withstand strong wind. 

three structures 

the development of the ‘cam thanh community center’ is the first in the region. amid consequences from climate change, like heat-waves, typhoons, and rising sea levels; it’s of utmost importance that the district finds ways — like tourism — to foster its economy. should the concept prove successful, it can be easily replicated in other areas. therefore, gradually shaping the architectural identity of hoi an city. 

the center draws influence from traditional courtyards, areca gardens, and vines of the rural area 

views around the facility 

interplay of light and dark 

interior structure 

community activities

community center at nighttime 

façade

site plan

concept

analysis

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edited by: nick brink | designboom