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University : University of Architecture of Ho Chi Minh city
Tutor(s) : Ho Dinh Chieu and Nguyen Ngoc Son
Project Description
Strategically located within this rapidly developing urban district, the library is designed to be more than just a repository of books, it aims to be a vibrant center for learning, innovation, and social interaction. Reflecting the area’s dynamic growth and commitment to sustainable development, the library will integrate advanced technologies with traditional architectural elements, offering a unique blend of the old and the new.
Set against the backdrop of the Saigon River, the library’s design is inspired by the natural and cultural landscape of southern Vietnam – An opportunity to create a narrative between library and landscape. Lift the library’s volume above, a completely open ground floor to extend Thu Thiem landscape directly into the library. This gesture creates a topography of programmed spaces within the ground floor lobby. The inside spills out and the outside flows in, creating a dynamic terrain of public life, active space and imaginative reading books.The library emerges as a knowledge paradise — a sanctuary amidst the bustling city where people can connect with nature and immerse themselves in learning, creativity, and community interaction. The library seamlessly blends with the surrounding park and waterways, breaking down physical barriers to become a unified space that fosters strong community connections within the urban landscape. Its facade will draw from the local heritage, incorporating elements such as the water coconut, a plant deeply embedded in the region’s history. This not only connects the structure to its surroundings but also symbolizes the library’s role in bridging the past with the future. The building will feature sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems, including solar panels and rainwater harvesting, aligning with Thu Thiem’s broader goals of environmental stewardship.
Unlike traditional libraries in Ho Chi Minh City, the Thu Thiem community library features an open, diverse design, offering 24/7 access to various functional spaces, services, events, and entertainment. Landscape ramps guide pedestrians seamlessly into the library, ensuring easy access while maintaining security through modern RFID technology. The ground floor lobby serves as a vital link between the library and surrounding public parks, creating a dynamic, inhabitable landscape that invites daily use by Thu Thiem residents and park visitors. This transparent, multifunctional space spans the entire ground floor, concentrating the library’s most active areas and fostering interaction. The lobby is envisioned as a vibrant public space, shaped by the program’s needs, and designed to be a central hub for community engagement. This project not only enriches the community’s intellectual and cultural life but also sets a new standard for modern library design that other cities can follow. With its integration of advanced technology, sustainable practices, and a strong focus on community involvement, the New City Library is set to become a landmark institution in Ho Chi Minh City, inspiring future generations.
Established in 2012, Tamayouz Excellence Award is an unaffiliated, independent initiative that aims to advance the profession of architecture academically and professionally. Tamayouz is dedicated to supporting aspirational and transformative projects that tackle local and global challenges and that are informed by a holistic understanding of context.