Enhancing site by emulating it.
When designing tourism spaces there is often a desire to disappear to be almost invisible. Alternatively, there can be a wish to create a standout attraction, something that draws people simply for its boldness. However, on rare occasions the cues given by the location are so strong, there is no need to hide and no need for a new attraction, in these cases it is more a matter of joining in.
This Hotel and villa development site is adjacent to Do Son peninsula located about 22km away from Hai Phong.
This stunning landform is created by Rong (Dragon) Mountain extending 5km to the sea and includes dozens of hills which are from 25 to 130 meters high. When sighting the peninsula for the first time the folklore surrounding it becomes instantly visible – it’s very topography is enough to evoke that mythical beast.
Responding to this we proposed a scheme reflecting the landscape where the dragon’s back is re-interpreted as a series of building wings that respond to the site, the views and the function of the hotel. Each end of the hotel is double loaded to increase efficiency and make use of the incredible 170 degree vista this site has. The podium elevates all rooms above the surrounding villas to ensure every single room has unparalleled views.
The sinuous forms of the serpentine building are accentuated through modern detailing in the facade to emphasise the unusual and beautiful shape, whilst reflective glass creates the illusion of the building almost curling back on itself, bringing a kinetic and visually fluid element to the building and animating the visual experience.
The building becomes a signature entry statement for the entire larger development – a reflection of the adjacent peninsula, the undulating mountains behind and the lapping water at its feet. It sets the tone and feeling for the whole, much larger, site, by celebrating its unique aspect. This is not a building that hides, nor is it an attraction on its own, it is part of a group of elements inspired by, emulating and enhancing its setting.
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Thien Duong General Director
Thien is a Chartered Architect with the Royal Institute of British Architects, boasting nearly three decades of experience across multiple continents. His work spans England, Canada, Bermuda, Africa, Dubai, and Australia, and in Vietnam, he is recognized as a Class 1 Architect and Masterplanner.
