Floating Nest, designed by atelier NgNg, stands as a testament to innovation and ingenuity in urban living. Situated on a narrow lot in Saigon’s crowded residential area, this tube house is a harmonious blend of contemporary design and traditional Vietnamese elements, offering a serene oasis amidst the hustle and bustle of the city.
Design Concept
Confronted with the challenge of maximizing natural light and ventilation in a constrained space, atelier NgNg opted for an open-plan layout devoid of partition walls. Instead, the design integrates “greenery” and “voids” to delineate functional spaces, creating a seamless transition between indoors and outdoors. Three large voids—front and back gardens spanning all three floors, and a central light well—serve as focal points, fostering a sense of openness and connectivity.
Spatial Organization
Small gardens and bamboo screens are strategically employed to delineate interior and exterior spaces, ensuring that every functional area remains in contact with nature. This approach not only enhances spatial flow but also creates a tranquil environment conducive to relaxation and contemplation.
Materials and Construction
The choice of materials reflects a harmonious blend of contemporary and traditional elements, drawing inspiration from Vietnamese villages. Bamboo, wood, glass, and iron are combined to create a tactile and visually striking aesthetic. Bamboo screens, reminiscent of traditional “rattan walls,” protect the house from harsh sunlight while maintaining privacy. CNC iron partitions, adorned with cut leaves, serve as both decorative elements and functional devices for light and air convection.
Lightness and Connectivity
Thin sheet iron components, strategically employed for architectural features such as stairs, balconies, and sunshades, reduce structural weight and enhance the sense of lightness. This approach, combined with the use of vertical bamboo sticks for the backyard skylight ceiling, creates a sense of floating amidst a lush green environment. At dusk, the house transforms into a lantern, with light filtering through bamboo trunks and iron walls, casting enchanting shadows in the neighborhood.
Conclusion
Floating Nest is more than just a dwelling; it is a testament to atelier NgNg’s commitment to sustainable and innovative design. By seamlessly integrating nature and tradition into urban living, this tube house offers a tranquil retreat in the heart of the city—a sanctuary where residents can reconnect with nature and find solace amidst the chaos of urban life.
