In the tropical setting of Vĩnh Long, Vietnam, NAQ Architecture has reimagined the humble brick to create a sustainable haven. This innovative design features a recycled terracotta facade that acts as both a visual and environmental barrier for a 150-square-meter weekend home. The striking outer layer is crafted from bricks sourced in Mang Thít, a nod to the region’s traditional brick-making heritage.
Also highlighting terracotta innovations, Rameshwari Jonnalagedda redefines architecture with 3D-printed living structures, showcasing the versatility of natural materials.
Eco-friendly retreat: Climate-inspired design embraces light and air
Inside, the house leverages a brilliant void topped with glazed roofing to flood the space with natural light. This void connects the interior vertically, allowing airflow throughout. With rust-colored stairs and airy mesh railings, the design promotes a seamless flow between floors in this green sanctuary.
The ground floor features an open-plan kitchen and dining area leading directly to a lush, plant-filled terrace. The harmonious interior palette of white and terracotta reflects the external aesthetic, emphasizing continuity and inviting warmth, enhancing the feeling of a natural enclave.
Perforated walls create shaded retreats
Viewers of the street facade encounter a series of outdoor rooms formed by deep brickwork. Shaded by terracotta walls, a broad upper balcony and a cozy ground terrace connect the family with the outside air while minimizing direct sun exposure. The rotating bricks filter light into shifting patterns across the interior surfaces throughout the day.
A weekend home tailored for tropical living
This Vĩnh Long retreat, designed for Ho Chi Minh City residents, emphasizes shared spaces intertwined with greenery. Climatic considerations drive the project, with planting incorporated into both the building facade and its terraces, adapting to the environment with effortless style. NAQ Architecture’s double-layered brick facade typifies passive design principles, offering significant energy savings by reducing reliance on air conditioning, further highlighting the sustainable haven.
The front facade ingeniously filters climate effects, transforming local materials into striking, functional design elements. Vines cascading from the upper levels soften the robust geometric form, merging nature with architecture.
Structural elegance meets environmental functionality
The patterned brickwork not only provides shade but also ensures constant airflow. Terracotta tones extend indoors, enhancing the spatial interplay between natural light and built form. The internal void channels sunlight effectively through the narrow structure, keeping the natural retreat bright and energy-efficient.
This sustainable design philosophy resonates with how UID Architects revolutionized family living with plywood web design, emphasizing eco-conscious architecture.
The rust-colored stairs weave through the open spaces, linking airy living areas with upper-level pathways and fostering connectivity within the home. Photographed by Paul Phan, the Vĩnh Long House encapsulates NAQ Architecture’s innovative approach to creating a sustainable haven.
Project Info:
Name: Vĩnh Long House
Architect: NAQ Architecture
Lead Architect: Nguyễn Anh Quân
Location: Vĩnh Long, Vietnam
Year: 2024
Photography: © Paul Phan
Sources & Links
Source: designboom.com
Frequently asked questions
What materials are used for the facade of the eco-friendly retreat?
The facade is made from recycled terracotta bricks sourced in Mang Thít, reflecting the region’s traditional brick-making heritage.
How does the design promote natural light and airflow?
The house features a brilliant void topped with glazed roofing, allowing natural light to flood the space and airflow throughout. The rotating bricks also filter light into shifting patterns across the interior.
What sustainable design principles does the Vĩnh Long retreat incorporate?
The retreat uses passive design principles with a double-layered brick facade to offer energy savings by reducing reliance on air conditioning. Climatic considerations drive the project, with planting incorporated into the building facade and terraces.