Approaching the brief, our challenge was the comprehensive renovation of a 130-square-meter apartment tailored for a multi-generational family. The spatial program is configured to include a living area, a kitchen, and distinct private zones: a senior master suite with an expanded en-suite bathroom for the grandparents; a parental master suite featuring a dedicated dressing area, workspace, and vanity; and a children's room utilized with bunk beds. The design ethos prioritizes a modern, streamlined aesthetic tailored to the client's lifestyle, with the ancestral altar established as the central focal point of the home. Commissioned on an accelerated timeline, the project underwent design development and technical documentation within just 1.5 months prior to the commencement of construction.
What significantly distinguishes this project from conventional renovations is the integration of a comprehensive HVAC system (specifically engineered to manage thermal comfort, air circulation, humidity, and air purity). Given the specificities of the Northern Vietnamese climate and the prevailing air pollution issues in major metropolises, this intervention proves to be exceptionally pragmatic. Specifically, for a high-rise typology set against the backdrop of Hanoi's meteorological context, the design addresses several environmental challenges that are frequently overlooked, such as:
High-rise typologies inherently lack natural vegetative shading, subjecting the unit to direct solar radiation and exacerbating the internal greenhouse effect; yet, occupants are reluctant to utilize natural ventilation due to concerns over urban air pollution or the intrusion of oppressive ambient heat. Furthermore, relying on air conditioning within a hermetically sealed envelope creates a stagnant environment, leading to a sense of suffocation as fresh oxygen levels gradually deplete.
Regarding internal air circulation, particularly in open-plan configurations where the living and culinary zones interconnect with the altar and foyer, the residence is prone to odor migration. Specifically, culinary scents often diffuse into the living area, while incense smoke from the altar can cause significant discomfort.
Humidity regulation presents another critical challenge. The Northern climate is characterized by drastic fluctuations in moisture levels, reaching near-saturation points for weeks during the spring, while turning aridly dry in winter. Such erratic weather patterns not only pose detrimental health risks to vulnerable occupants (like the elderly and children) but also compromise the longevity of the apartment’s interior finishes and equipment.
To address these multifaceted challenges, the architectural team implemented a series of strategic technical interventions:
First, we integrated a Fresh Air Supply System coupled with advanced filtration. Even when the apartment remains in a closed state, every room benefits from continuous air convection and fresh oxygen renewal. This fosters an airy, pristine atmosphere that is completely decoupled from the city's external pollution.
Second, airflow dynamics were rigorously calculated and orchestrated. Supply vents are strategically positioned in “clean zones” - the living room and foyer - to establish positive pressure. This barrier effectively prevents moldy odors from the common corridor or culinary scents and incense smoke from infiltrating the living space. Conversely, exhaust vents are located in odor-generating zones (the kitchen and altar), creating negative pressure to contain pollutants and expedite their extraction.
Third, a comprehensive humidity control system (humidification and dehumidification) was essential. Active dehumidification during the humid season mitigates respiratory risks while preserving interior finishes and equipment. Complementarily, the system compensates for moisture loss during dry winters, ensuring the apartment consistently maintains optimal humidity levels.
Despite the complexity of the technical systems, the apartment's aesthetic integrity remains uncompromised. All machinery and ductwork are meticulously calculated to be completely fully concealed within the ceiling, optimizing space while delivering peak performance. Although the volume of air vents is significant, they are effectively managed by integrating them into the ceiling shadow gaps (linear slots). This creates a sleek, clutter-free look with fewer visible technical elements compared to standard air conditioning projects.
