VIETNAM ARCHITECTURE (PART 1)

NORTHERN REGION (BẮC BỘ)

The architecture of Northern Vietnam reflects the dramatic contrast between its mountainous highlands and the Red River Delta. (GEOGRAPHICAL INFLUENCE)

CENTRAL REGION (TRUNG BỘ)

Central Vietnam's architecture demonstrates remarkable adaptation to both coastal challenges and highland conditions (GEOGRAPHICAL INFLUENCE)

SOUTHERN REGION (NAM BỘ

the most distinctive water-based architecture in Vietnam. (GEOGRAPHICAL INFLUENCE)

NORTHERN REGION (TRUNG BỘ)

This region is characterized by ancient metamorphic rock formations in its mountainous areas, extensive limestone karst systems, and the rich alluvial deposits of the Red River Delta. (GEOLOGICAL INFLUENCE)

CENTRAL REGION (TRUNG BỘ)

Central Vietnam's geology creates a transitional zone between north and south. (GEOLOGICAL INFLUENCE)

SOUTHERN REGION (NAM BỘ)

Dominated by the Mekong Delta, presents the most challenging geological conditions. (GEOLOGICAL INFLUENCE)

NORTHERN REGION (TRUNG BỘ)

• Courtyards are typically smaller and more enclosed to retain heat during winter months.

• Roofs have steeper pitches to withstand occasional storms and handle winter rains.

• The design often includes movable partitions and screens

(CLIMATIC INFLUENCE)

CENTRAL REGION (TRUNG BỘ)

This region faces the harshest weather conditions, particularly typhoons and floods. Buildings are constructed with extra-sturdy foundations and reinforced structures to withstand strong winds

(CLIMATIC INFLUENCE)

SOUTHERN REGION (NAM BỘ)

• In response to the consistently hot and humid tropical climate, southern architecture prioritizes maximum ventilation. Homes are designed with high ceilings, numerous windows, and open floor plans.

• Roofs are less steep than in northern regions but include wide overhangs for rain protection and shade. Stilt houses are common in delta areas to adapt to seasonal flooding.

• The architecture extensively uses lightweight materials and integrates outdoor living spaces, verandas, and large openings to take advantage of natural breezes and maintain cooler indoor temperatures.

(CLIMATIC INFLUENCE)

BUDDHISM

Buddhist architectural influence is most prominently displayed in pagodas (chùa), which are considered the most sophisticated religious structures in Vietnam

CONFUCIANISM

Confucian architectural influence is most evident in academic and administrative buildings, particularly văn miếu (temples of literature) and imperial structures.

TAOISM

Taoist influence is more subtle but significant in Vietnamese architecture, emphasizing harmony with nature and the concept of yin-yang balance.

Nguyễn Dynasty

During imperial times, particularly under the ____________, architecture served as a symbol of power and authority

• Temples and Pagodas

• Residential Houses

• Palaces

• Markets and Public Buildings

DIFFERENT BUILDING/STRUCTURE TYPOLOGIES IN VIETNAMESE ARCHITECTURE

Temples and pagodas

are central to Vietnamese culture and spirituality, with architectural styles influenced by Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism, and local beliefs.

ONE PILLAR PAGODA

is one of the most symbolic and prominent structures in Vietnam. It is situated in the middle of a lotus pond while taking on the shape of a lotus flower itself.

TEMPLE OF LITERATURE, HANOI

was built to teach and worship Confucius and the talented Confucian scholars. This is a work built to promote the spirit of studiousness of the people as well as finding talents to serve the country

Dai Trung Mon

Great Middle Gate

Khue Van Cac

Pavilion of the Constellation of Literature

Dai Thanh

Great Success Gate

NHÀ RƯỜNG

• TRADITIONAL WOODEN HOUSES

• Often seen in central Vietnam, these houses are built with wood and have open designs with intricate wood joinery.

NHÀ SÀN

• STILT HOUSES

• Common in mountainous areas, these homes are elevated to avoid flooding and provide ventilation.

NHÀ ỐNG

• TUBE HOUSES

• Found in urban areas, these narrow, elongated homes maximize limited street frontage, with deep, multi-level layouts adapted for dense city living.

PALACES

___________ in Vietnam are designed with a harmonious blend of Vietnamese and Chinese architectural elements, including richly carved wooden interiors and open-air pavilions that integrate with natural landscapes.

IMPERIAL CITY OF HUE

features palatial halls, temples, and courtyards arranged in a symmetrical layout.

BEN THANH MARKET

was originally built in the 17th century near Ben Nghe River to welcome visitors and soldiers into Gia Dinh Citadel. That is also why it was called Ben Thanh, as “ben” means "river wharf" and “thanh” means "citadel."

Nhà Rường

• Traditional Northern Vietnamese Architecture)

• Represents Vietnamese craftsmanship and philosophical principles.

  Key Characteristics:

• Wooden frame construction with interlocking joints (no nails)

• Elegantly curved roof edges

• Open-sided design for ventilation

• Philosophical and practical design principles

Nhà Sàn

• Stilt Houses

• Elevated 2-3 meters above ground

• Used primarily by ethnic minority groups in mountainous regions

• Constructed from local materials (bamboo, hardwoods, palm leaves)