In the heart of Hanoi's bustling urban landscape, where narrow alleyways weave a complex social fabric, ODDO Architects has crafted a remarkable extension to TH+ House, a project that seamlessly blends form and function. This expansion, a testament to the studio's innovative approach, addresses the challenges of limited space by embracing the very essence of the city's character. The architects, with their keen understanding of the local context, have created a series of shared, flexible spaces that mirror the vibrant community life of Hanoi's alleyways.
The design philosophy behind TH+ House is a response to the unique urban conditions of Hanoi. By treating the narrow site as an opportunity rather than a constraint, ODDO Architects has crafted a stacked series of spaces that encourage social interaction and visual connections. The central element of the design is a bright red steel support, a bold statement that serves both structural and spatial purposes. This column, a true masterpiece of engineering, frees the plan from traditional structural limitations, allowing for larger openings and flexible layouts.
On the ground floor, the extension seamlessly integrates a new kitchen, bathroom, and courtyard with the existing home's dining area. The use of folding glass doors opens up the space to the adjacent alley, blurring the boundaries between the interior and the urban environment. Above, the living room, tea room, and bedrooms are connected through internal windows and a unique bean-shaped opening, creating a sense of continuity and visual flow.
The design's connection to the original TH House is achieved through perforated white-steel walkways, which allow natural light to permeate the interior. The exposed concrete floor plates and the central red-painted steel column support these walkways, creating a harmonious interplay of materials and textures. The lower levels, with their dark stone floors and exposed concrete ceilings, evoke a sense of intimacy and privacy, while the upper levels, lined with timber panels, offer a warmer and more inviting atmosphere.
The central red steel column, a true masterpiece of design, is more than just a structural element. It serves as the spatial organiser, allowing for larger openings and flexible layouts. By concentrating the load into a single element, the column frees the plan from traditional constraints, enabling a continuous visual connection across the narrow footprint. This design choice reflects the project's core idea of openness, adaptability, and spatial generosity within the confines of the urban environment.
ODDO Architects, a studio with offices in Hanoi and Havirov, Czech Republic, has established itself as a leader in innovative residential architecture. Led by partners Nguyễn Đức Trung, Mai Lan Chi Obtulovičová, and Marek Obtulovičová, the firm has garnered recognition for its unique approach to design. In 2021, they were awarded the prestigious emerging architecture studio of the year in the Dezeen Awards, solidifying their reputation in the industry.
TH+ House is a testament to the studio's ability to transform challenging urban conditions into opportunities for social and spatial richness. The extension, with its vibrant red steel support and flexible spaces, reflects the essence of Hanoi's alleyways, where community life thrives through shared interactions. This project not only showcases the studio's technical prowess but also its deep understanding of the local culture and urban dynamics, making it a standout example of contemporary architecture in Vietnam.
