Nestled in the vibrant city of Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam, the striking Red Cave residence stands as a testament to 23o5studio’s innovative approach to architectural design. Paying homage to the traditional housing and architectural styles of Vietnamese villages, the three-storey structure boasts a captivating blend of modern geometric aesthetics and cultural heritage.
With its distinct rectangular profile and a pitched roof that captures the essence of a typical detached home, the Red Cave home and yoga suite showcases a seamless integration of external elements. The exterior facade, roof, and windows merge flawlessly, creating a unified and harmonious visual appeal. A notable feature at the front is the trapezoid-shaped windowless volume, adorned with a lush rooftop terrace that delicately intersects with the main structure.
Throughout the three levels of the house, a combination of rectangular, square, and circular windows of varying sizes punctuate the red-hued exterior, adding depth and character to the architectural composition. The ground level, enveloped by a serene water moat, hosts an open-plan space dedicated to fitness and wellness activities. Marked by a series of pillars, this area serves as an indoor-outdoor space, fostering a sense of connectivity with the surrounding environment.
Intricate geometric cutouts and concrete stepping-stone-like platforms further emphasize the distinctive design language of the Red Cave residence. Ascending to the first floor, one encounters the tranquil yoga suite nestled within the windowless volume. Natural light permeates the space through a generously sized skylight, creating a serene ambiance that encourages relaxation and introspection. Notably, a large circular opening at the rear stretches across the back wall, forming a sheltered semi-circular balcony that offers respite and panoramic views of the surroundings.
The second floor of the residence accommodates the vibrant living areas, centered around an angular glazed recess that invites ample natural light and provides breathtaking vistas of the nearby Saigon River. The cut-out in the pitched roof is skillfully lined with expansive floor-to-ceiling windows, offering a seamless transition between the interior and the spacious roof terrace, an ideal setting for leisurely gatherings and moments of tranquility.
Ascending to the mezzanine level through a ladder, one encounters the cozy sleeping area, fostering a sense of privacy and comfort. Adjacent to this space, an open-plan kitchen and seating area boast a thoughtful arrangement, framed by the angular glass walls that infuse the space with an abundance of natural light and offer picturesque views of the surrounding landscape.
Founded in Vietnam, 23o5studio is renowned for its distinctive approach to residential architecture, as demonstrated by the Red Cave residence. Reflecting the dynamic blend of tradition and modernity, the studio’s design philosophy manifests in the seamless integration of cultural influences and contemporary sensibilities. As the studio continues to push the boundaries of architectural innovation, its contribution to the Vietnamese architectural landscape remains significant and enduring.
Photos by Hiroyuki Oki.