Museum of “Sai Gon” Railway Industry

“Ho Chi Minh city – Sai Gon” – a city of the past and future

Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as “Saigon”, is a vibrant metropolis in southern Vietnam, renowned for its eclectic blend of architectural styles that reflect its rich history and rapid modernization. The city’s architectural landscape is a fascinating tapestry where French colonial, traditional Vietnamese, and contemporary influences converge. Overall, Ho Chi Minh City’s architecture is a vibrant mosaic that illustrates its historical journey, cultural diversity, and economic progress, making it a fascinating destination for architecture enthusiasts and casual observers alike.

The Industrial heritage – context of design
The rapid urban development of Vietnam in recent years has led to the disappearance of numerous early industrial production facilities, along with their associated tangible and intangible values. Many industrial structures with heritage significance are also facing precarious futures, as they are not included in any state classification or preservation lists.

Approach
Recognizing the need to emphasize heritage and planning in the area, the proposal suggests a more modest, enclosed space. The strength of this approach lies in preserving surface landmarks while addressing regional issues. It allows the area to retain its historical value while integrating with future developments, such as park, pedestrian streets, central axes, and metro stations. This design facilitates a transition from the past (surface) to the future (underground). Although the design adopts a modern aesthetic, it retains elements of the old iron house area, including hundred years of old station and well, the bobo trail, and the architecture of the old station.