DMA architects has completed the renovation of a 40-year-old residence in ho chi minh city, vietnam, in order to accommodate a three-generation family of seven. originally built in the 1980s, the pre-existing building has undergone several refurbishments and expansions through the years, but this intervention seeks to generate a contemporary space that meets the current needs and lifestyle of the occupants. therefore, the new design forms an intimate environment, which is specifically adapted to the hot and humid tropical climate of the area, and ensures tranquillity, comfort, and privacy within the dense urban fabric. 
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all images courtesy of DMA architects

 

 

after a thorough study of the existing structure, DMA architects decided on the components that can be removed and the ones that must be preserved. however, there were some structural parts that could not be secured without dismantling during their repair. therefore, the architects decided to come up with a plan that allows for improvised design and custom construction. the resulting structural solution creates a continuous connection between all spaces, between the inside and the outside, between people and nature, while still ensuring occupants’ privacy. 
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inside, the living space and the kitchen are allocated in the heart of the dwelling, occupying the largest area in the residence, which is mainly housed by the old-construction. since this area serves as a gathering spot for all family members, it is closely connected to all spaces, allowing fluid circulation among them. meanwhile, supporting rooms are all nestled to one side of the residence, catering to the family’s needs and avoiding affecting the main living areas.

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seeking to overcome the limitations of the old building, the new structure makes the most of natural lighting and ventilation, minimizing energy use in the process. all rooms are arranged with windows at both ends – ensuring cross ventilation through the room from front to back of the house. in addition, three new atriums were opened to ensure the best vertical ventilation, along with creating a buffer space in front of the house, in coordination with trees to prevent heat radiation directly into the building.

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furthermore, the arrangement of a water surface element on the ground floor balances the humidity and further facilitates effective ventilation. the red color of the house developed from the red-terrazzo stairs is kept intact during the repair process, and at the same time, the reuse of the family’s old furnitures in the design will help recall familiar memories of ‘home’.

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project info:

 

architects: DMA architects
lead architect: pham duc minh
location: hochiminh city – vietnam
gross built area: 270 m2

 

 

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.

 

edited by: myrto katsikopoulou | designboom