Phuoc Tich Ancient Village, established in 1470 during the reign of King Le Thanh Tong, lies 40 kilometers north of Hue, embraced by the gentle flow of the O Lau River. Within the village, 26 ancient wooden houses (nhà rường), each over a century old, stand as testaments to traditional craftsmanship. Among these, 12 houses are particularly esteemed for their architectural and artistic value. Additionally, the village is home to 12 water docks, iconic symbols of the rural charm of Hue.
Phuoc Tich pottery, renowned for its meticulous firing process in robust, high-temperature kilns, boasts exceptional durability—resistant to cracking and brittleness—while retaining heat and preserving flavors. The intricate designs etched into Phuoc Tich pottery are distinctive and refined, making them unmistakable among other ceramic products. Historically, Phuoc Tich pottery surpassed many renowned competitors to become the exclusive choice for the imperial court of Hue.
Today, the art of Phuoc Tich pottery is experiencing a revival, driven by passionate young artisans dedicated to preserving the traditional craft passed down through generations. Visitors to the ancient village can immerse themselves in its cultural heritage by participating in pottery-making workshops with local artisans, creating a memorable and hands-on connection to this timeless tradition.

HVV Architect & Partners embodies a vision where architecture resonates deeply with local heritage and the natural environment. All their design and construction projects are rooted in a commitment to authenticity, with a distinctive focus on using Phuoc Tich pottery as a core material.
Phuoc Tich pottery are not merely functional but carry the soul of Hue’s artisanal legacy. Their durability, natural hues, and fine craftsmanship make them a perfect medium for creating spaces that blend tradition with modernity. By incorporating the material, HVV Architect & Partners elevates local materials into architectural expressions that honor the past while embracing contemporary aesthetics.
Each project reflects a philosophy of harmonious living, where the choice of materials and design principles creates spaces that are sustainable, culturally enriched, and emotionally resonant. Visitors and occupants alike experience an intimate connection to Hue’s cultural identity through the timeless beauty of Phuoc Tich pottery, seamlessly integrated into innovative and inspiring architectural designs.
Through these efforts, HVV Architect & Partners not only showcases the versatility of traditional materials but also contributes to the preservation and celebration of Hue’s rich artistic heritage. This approach ensures that every building tells a story of place, people, and enduring craftsmanship.

Established by the Hui-Bon-Hoa Company (owned by a Chinese-Vietnamese businessman known as Uncle Hoa), the hotel is located at the corner of Catinat Street (now Dong Khoi Street) and Quai de Belgique Street (now Ton Duc Thang Street). Designed in the popular baroque architectural style of the time, the hotel became one of Saigon’s most elegant and impressive buildings upon its completion in 1925.
The Majestic initially had three stories and 44 bedrooms, as per the original design by a French architect. In 1948, the Indochina Tourism and Exhibition Department, led by the Frenchman Franchini Mathieu, purchased the ground and first floors of the hotel and leased 44 rooms for 30 years.
The hotel was officially rated as a five-star establishment in 2007. In July 2011, construction began on two new towers along Nguyen Hue Street, adding 353 rooms to the hotel.
However, over time, the usage of the space and the integration of modern equipment have diminished the building’s original value. The goal of the redesign and renovation is to restore its luxury and evoke the essence of the famous Indochinese architectural style, reminiscent of old Saigon.

“The beauty of the four seasons helped him heal his mind and heart from the wounds of war. The peaceful and wholesome atmosphere of the campus helped him have many deep insights, flowers, and fruits of the practice. Perhaps that is why Thay always remind us that nature can help us heal ourselves.”

Zen master Thich Nhat Hanh – [At home in the World]

Location:
Tan Binh commune, Nhu Xuan District, Thanh Hoa Province, Vietnam
Size:
1,53 hectares
Services:
Master plan, Architecture and Interior design
Status:
Approved Master plan at scale 1/500, 2024
Under construction.
Team:
HVV Architect & Partners

Intro

As our society advances and technology continues to evolve, our quality of life has seen remarkable improvements. Yet, the desire for relaxation, tranquility, and a deeper connection with oneself has become a fundamental part of our daily existence. This need is increasingly pressing, given the rising prevalence of mental health challenges like stress and anxiety.
The relentless pace of modern life, combined with the pressures of work, often leads to heightened stress, anxiety, and various mental health concerns. Taking a moment to pause and breathe can offer us a valuable chance to reconnect with nature and reflect on ourselves. Nature holds a profound healing power: when our minds are no longer disrupted by the constant noise of traffic, when our emotions are no longer constrained by concrete jungles, and when we can breathe clean, unpolluted air, we experience true inner peace. Immersed in nature, we rediscover the serenity that lies within our souls.
Thus, creating a meditation retreat that harmonizes with nature is essential. This sanctuary will offer a tranquil haven where individuals can find solace, cultivate mindfulness, practice meditation, heal their souls, and share positive values with the world.

Site location

Tue Giac Zen Monastery is located northwest of Song Muc Lake – in Ben En National Park, Tan Binh Commune, Nhu Xuan District, Thanh Hoa Province; The distance from this area to Tho Xuan airport is about 143374ft along National route 15.

The planned research area features a convergence of hillside topographical elements, with valleys and lakes nestled below. It is a location that boasts pristine natural landscapes. Furthermore, the terrain’s structure and geomorphology provide many sites with expansive, diverse, and breathtaking views.

Design principles

Master plan

To create a space for returning, studying, and practicing the teachings of Buddhism, cultivating virtue, and enhancing moral awareness. A place that offers a harmonious environment with nature, where individuals can engage in meditation, seek enlightenment, and liberate themselves from the afflictions and suffering of life.

The architectural layout harmonizes seamlessly with the natural terrain, incorporating a variety of structures within distinct spaces to create visual appeal. The pagoda, meditation hall, main hall, guest house, and dining hall are arranged in a descending terraced formation. The design employs overlapping and rhythmic elements, offering dynamic perspectives from different viewpoints and highlighting the surrounding natural beauty of the mountains, lakes, and cliffs. The architecture, landscape, and on-site activities are interwoven in a cohesive and fluid manner.

The program “Unlimited Connections – Building a City of Light” broadcast on HTV9 provides a comprehensive perspective on the role of lighting in shaping modern and sustainable urban areas.

The story of Saigon’s light—an essential element of life and culture—has been shaped by its tropical climate and a distinctive “nightlife” culture since the city’s earliest days. Lighting not only ensures the safety of living and working spaces but also contributes to the aesthetics and prominence of modern urban architecture. However, uncontrolled use of lighting can lead to energy waste and environmental pollution. The program emphasizes the importance of smart lighting that is appropriate, sufficient, and aesthetically pleasing while minimizing light pollution, aiming to enhance overall visual harmony with the surrounding space. Building a city of light that is exemplary, harmonious, and rich in identity is a collective effort—to make the city brighter, more beautiful, and increasingly civilized.

Urban lighting is not merely about beautification; it also fosters a sense of comfort and relaxation, drawing residents into the city’s nighttime activities, thereby making the urban environment more vibrant and dynamic.

Architect Hồ Viết Vinh

We invite you to watch the program to explore the role of lighting in building smart, modern, and sustainable cities.

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!

Trong ánh sáng mờ ảo của buổi chiều tà, màu xanh của cổ rêu trở nên lung linh hơn, như những viên ngọc bích nhỏ bé, lấp lánh giữa không gian yên tĩnh. Những đường vân của rêu, như những nét vẽ tinh tế của một họa sĩ tài hoa: tạo nên một bức tranh thiên nhiên sống động, đầy cảm hứng.
Mỗi không gian cổ rêu là một câu chuyện, một mảnh ghép của quá khứ, gợi nhớ về những ngày tháng vàng son của triều đại xưa. Đôi khi, một cơn gió nhẹ thổi qua, làm rêu lay động, như những dòng chữ cổ xưa đang thì thầm kể lại những bí mật của thời gian.
Cổ rêu tại Cố đô Huế không chỉ là một phần của cảnh quan, mà còn là biểu tượng của sự trường tồn, của vẻ đẹp giản dị nhưng sâu lắng, khiến lòng người không khỏi bồi hồi, xao xuyến mỗi khi bước ngang qua nó.

Kiến trúc sư Hồ Viết Vinh, Huế. 2025

The Concept for the Thu Thiem Master Plan envisions a lush peninsula of trees and waterways. Its urban spatial morphology is designed to achieve a balanced scale, harmonizing with the existing urban fabric. The central square is seamlessly connected by canals, directing water flows through the wetland forest. Along the banks of the Saigon River, open parks create a buffer that bridges the high-density urban spaces on the river’s west side.

The master plan for the Thu Thiem New Urban Center triumphed over 29 competing proposals (14 international and 15 Vietnamese) to earn high acclaim. The selected plan, originally proposed by SASAKI Inc., incorporated additional ideas during the detailed planning stage.
The selection committee, comprising renowned domestic and international urban experts, included figures such as Professor John Lang from New South Wales, Professor William S.W. Lim from Singapore, Professor Nguyen The Ba, and Professor Nguyen Manh Thu.

Type
Urban Planning
Year
2003
Area
730 hectares
Location
District 2, Ho Chi Minh City
Team
Professor Nguyen Trong Hoa
Master of Urban plannning Ho Viet Vinh

Nestled quietly under the canopy of the coconut forest swaying in the gentle breeze, the simple house comes into existence thanks to the reflections of the dawn sunlight. The house has a simple modern look, inheriting the shape of a traditional house with 3 compartments and 2 wings, with a large veranda surrounding it. The veranda is a transitional space and acts as a climate regulator for the whole house. Not only that, but it is also a place where countless activities connect people with the surrounding open space. The rooms all open to the garden and the doorways pull the garden into its deepest recesses. The nuanced transitions of time and space also take place in the cut of this patio.

The waterscape of the living complex in the Mekong Delta beautifully embodies the harmony between architecture and nature. Drawing inspiration from the region’s rich waterway traditions, the design integrates fluid forms and organic materials that reflect the surrounding landscapes. The layout, with its interconnected waterways and lush greenery, fosters a sense of tranquility and connection to the environment. Each villa, positioned to maximize views of the water, invites natural light and breezes, enhancing the sensory experience. This approach not only celebrates local culture but also promotes sustainable living, making the project a poignant example of emotional architecture in contemporary design.