The goal is to enhance connectivity between Can Gio and neighboring provinces, particularly Vung Tau. As Ho Chi Minh City continues to expand, the demand for infrastructure grows, posing potential risks to Can Gio’s ecological integrity. Special attention is given to strengthening links with the nearby beach resort of Vung Tau, initially through a speedboat network and eventually with the proposed construction of an undersea tunnel.
While the jury found the tunnel proposal highly debatable, they acknowledged that the previously approved masterplan lacked adequate provisions for improving these connections. Team 4 prioritized these links, making them a central focus of their proposal.

Another key aspect of the development proposed by the team is the diversification of tourism activities. These could range from walking or boating excursions through the mangroves to farm visits, beach activities, and trips to nearby provinces made more accessible through the improved transportation links.
The team also presented a project to reclaim land and create two artificial islands off the coast at the eastern and western ends. These islands are envisioned as hubs for diverse tourism activities, offering unique experiences to visitors.

Achieving these objectives will require significant improvements to infrastructure. A high-speed transportation system must be implemented in a way that respects the environment and minimizes pollution, bringing Can Gio closer to nearby development areas.
Freshwater supply is critical for both residents and tourists. A sustainable water collection and recycling system should be established to optimize this valuable resource while preventing water pollution.
The construction of eco-houses will help balance the infrastructural development, ensuring harmony with the natural surroundings. Additionally, all other modes of transportation within the area will be designed to be environmentally friendly.

The project seeks to enhance the quality of life for the residents of Can Gio. This will be accomplished by preserving and upgrading traditional activities such as farming and those along the beach.
Locals will be encouraged to participate in service, trade, and production activities to meet the demands of tourism while maintaining their cultural heritage. Traditional practices will be promoted, enabling those living in the forest, on the beach, or along the river to share their unique ways of life.
Additionally, numerous public spaces and recreational activities will be developed, fostering leisure and entertainment opportunities for both residents and visitors.

The southern area of Can Gio along the beach will be developed with a focus on preserving the connections between the forest and the sea. Six key axes will serve as the foundation for these links: an agricultural production axis, a commercial axis, a festival axis, a handicraft village axis, a traditional market axis, and a public space axis.
This approach ensures that development respects the natural and cultural heritage of the region while creating vibrant and functional spaces for both residents and visitors.

The ultimate aim of this proposal is to evoke and enrich people’s senses and emotions, creating an “emotional city”. Both visitors and locals will be immersed in a symphony of sensory experiences:
They will listen to the soothing sounds of the forest and the rhythmic waves of the beach. They will marvel at breathtaking views of the sea and lush forests, swim in the waves, and feel the textures of the forest’s natural wonders.
The air will carry the refreshing scent of the sea, mingling with the intricate fragrances of the mangrove. They will savor the local flavors, from seafood harvested from the river and sea to traditional delicacies.
Beyond these sensory delights, their emotions will be further deepened by the rich history, vibrant culture, and timeless traditions of Can Gio, making every moment a journey of discovery and connection.

Team 4

• Ho Viet Vinh – Leader Architect, Urban Planner
• Pham Phu Cuong – Architect
• Nguyen Hong Minh – Architect
• Hoang Anh Tu – Architect, Urban Planner
• Pham Anh Tuan – Architect, Urban Planner
• Nguyen Anh Tuan – Architect, Landscape Architect

Team 4, comprised entirely of Vietnamese professionals and led by Architect Ho Viet Vinh, brought a profound vision for the future of Can Gio. The team outlined a series of key objectives, including the preservation of the mangrove ecosystem—both its core and transitional areas—the optimization and development of local production activities, and the protection of water resources from pollution originating from the Saigon-Dong Nai River and the sea.
For their insightful and forward-thinking approach, Team 4 awarded a special mention from the Workshops of Cergy-Pontoise.

Triumph

The interplay of deep reds and blues evokes a cosmic dance, where the intangible whispers its presence across the surface of being. This visual symphony captures the essence of triumph, a celebration of the invisible forces shaping reality. The textures and hues blend seamlessly, creating a sense of depth that invites contemplation. It is a portrayal of the silent dialogue between the visible and the invisible, a testament to the power of abstract art to reveal the profound mysteries of the universe.

Êm đềm tựa giọt sương tinh khiết gieo mầm an lành.
Can trường cắm cội rễ sâu bền trước bão lũ.
Hoa trôi nở hương thơm giữa dòng nổi sóng, bờ cỏ lặng lẽ tựa mặt hồ thu.
Hương Giang trở thành ngọn đuốc chánh niệm – vừa tỏa sáng tự thân, vừa soi đường dẫn lối.

The Zen garden embodies the essence of nature, situated within a coniferous forest, where it bathes in the morning sunlight and is immersed in the cool breeze of the nearby beach. Visitors move freely within its open space, unbound by fixed positions or traditional frames of reference.
Movement transcends notions of interior and exterior, high and low. Heaven and earth, plants, flowers, and humans merge into one harmonious whole, where every step resonates with the breath of the pure land.

HVV Recruitment:
In 2025, HVV is looking to recruit talented individuals for the following positions:

• 2 Urban Planners;
• 2 Landscape Architects;
• 2 Architects specialized in Architecture and Interior Design.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field for each position;
• 2–3 years of work experience;
• Proficiency in commonly used design software, such as ACAD, SU, Lumion, Rhino, 3Dmax,…;
• Skilled in one or more of the following areas: 3D and 2D concept visualization, design implementation, design management;
• A professional attitude, eagerness to learn, creativity, and integrity.

Join us in creating inspiring living spaces that reflect cultural identity!
At HVV, we are not just looking for talented architects but also seeking to collaborate with creative minds who are passionate about innovation and aspire to achieve timeless values. Let your talent bring meaningful projects to life and leave a lasting mark with us.
Contact:
HVV Architect and partners
Architect Ho Viet Vinh
Phone: +84 908 376 727
Email: [email protected]
Join us now to turn unique ideas into reality!