scandinavian furniture peeks through tropical plants in vietnamese residence by studio anettai

a fluid living space imbued with natural elements

architectural studio anettai has renovated a residence/showroom within a high-rise condominium in ho chi minh city, vietnam. the unit was transformed into a fluid space divided into five different functional zones: entrance, living, dining, study, and sleeping area, each defined by a different color floor finish. a collection of refined furniture pieces and light fixtures, —mainly created by the renowned danish furniture brand fritz hansen— organic-shaped planters and tropical plants decorate the interior, gently separating the open intermediate spaces.

main view from the entrance looking toward the entire space

all images by hiroyuki oki

redefining scandinavian furniture

in this residential renovation, studio anettai decided to preserve all pre-existing furniture by danish furniture brand fritz hansen. ‘we think that the furniture pieces not only match with their original modern scandinavian interiors, but they can also fit perfectly in other foreign environments, for example, an old historical ruin or even in a traditional japanese house, thanks to their universal and timeless design,’ the architects mention. ‘hence, we would like to redefine the collection by presenting them within a new context: the tropics.’ in this way, the visitors can now find the furniture pieces hidden within in a lush rainforest, between winding pathways, rather than a white cube gallery setting.

the study area

‘creative externalities’ help realize the creative renovation

the anettai team also collaborated with a special contractor with high expertise to realize the characteristic in-situ terrazzo floor, through in-depth discussion on pigments, size of aggregates, and details. the floor finish transitions seamlessly between the horizontal and the vertical surfaces with a smooth curvy rise, replacing generic skirting. the edgeless corners help create a free-flowing sensation in the space. likewise, the built-in wooden furniture specially crafted for the project, and long linen curtain that covers the sleeping area and existing windows, were produced under the supervision of local young talents.

‘such interventions by others are what we call ‘creative externalities’, which we always try to pursue as a collective and cooperative design process to achieve something more than a product from catalogues, selected by the architects.’ explains the studio. by actively involving other local factors, such as local designers, artisan’s creativity and vibrant tropical plants, the project seeks to achieve an environment where the locality and global phenomenon can coexist, creating a new symbiosis between these two systems as a whole.

a round curtain conceals and protects the sleeping area