In the centre of Hue City (Vietnam), Tiam is a small, 18-year house renovated by Nguyen Khai Architects & Associates. With a gross build floor area of only 35 sqm, the main design challenge was to provide a more spacious and efficient living space for a three-generational family of seven members. The renovated home has a total of three floors, one attic, one balcony and a terrace. On the first floor, there is a café, which is run by the owner.
The architects explain the most effective solution for working with such a limited built area is to design the interior to be as minimal as possible and create continuous, open spaces. For example, an old and ineffective spiral staircase has been replaced by a straight running stair, which helps to optimize space and achieve better circulation. Throughout, a simple and monochromatic palette of materials is used. In particular, bamboo furniture was selected as bamboo is not only a local and sustainable material, but also has characteristics making it suitable for use in the extreme climate of Hue City.
The exterior façade is largely glazed, with vertical louvres employed to allow for natural light and privacy, while also reducing heat radiation and create geometrical light effects.
On the ground floor, the café features simple and monochrome materials and furnishings similar to the interior of the house.
Planted pots of differing sizes can be found throughout the building – integrated into the louvres, on the balcony, on the terrace and within the house itself. Though situated in a dense and crowded city, the additional green help to provide a feeling of proximity to nature and a peaceful feeling living space.
