By The Saigon River holds immense significance in the cultural and economic tapestry of Vietnam, particularly in shaping the landscape of Ho Chi Minh City. Each year, the Ashui Award ceremony serves as a platform to celebrate the contributions of Vietnamese architects. For the 2023 edition, the event was hosted at a site along the Saigon River, symbolizing the vital role of rivers in the nation’s history and urban evolution.
A Tribute to Vietnamese Architecture
Situated on an empty plot adjacent to the Saigon River and bordered by neighboring structures facing the Thanh Da Peninsula, the Ashui Pavilion 2023 was conceived as a space that seamlessly integrates with its surroundings while enhancing the natural flow of the area. Despite budget and time constraints, the design aimed to create a distinct environment that pays homage to Vietnamese architectural traditions.
Harmonizing Nature and Structure
The pavilion’s design ingeniously utilizes the original fabric size combined with borrowed scaffolding frames from nearby constructions. This approach, guided by the principles of natural gravity, results in a graceful curvature that defines the exhibition space, stage, and seating areas. The billowing white fabric, animated by the wind, casts ethereal light patterns, inviting visitors to engage with the space and reminisce about childhood memories of riverside play.
Recalling Childhood Memories
Ashui Pavilion 2023 evokes a sense of nostalgia, transporting visitors to the idyllic scenes of Vietnamese villages where children frolic and bathe in the rivers. Despite its ephemeral nature, the project showcases innovative on-site construction methods, ensuring sustainability by dismantling materials for reuse elsewhere. This commitment to environmental stewardship reflects a deep respect for the land and its original integrity.
Conclusion
In its poetic fusion of architecture, nature, and cultural heritage, Ashui Pavilion 2023 stands as a testament to the resilience and creativity of Vietnamese design. By celebrating the timeless allure of rivers and honoring local architectural traditions, the pavilion serves not only as a venue for architectural accolades but also as a cherished space that resonates with the collective memory of the Vietnamese people.
