Architects: Nguyen Khai Architects & Associates
Area: 320 m²
Year: 2023
Photography: Hiroyuki Oki
Lead Architects: Nguyen Quang Khai
Interior Design: Tran Yen Chau
Program / Use / Building Function: Residential
City: Huế
Country: Vietnam
Nala House, designed by Nguyen Khai Architects & Associates in Hue city, is a dual-purpose residential and artistic space. Completed in 2023, this project integrates a painter’s studio and gallery within a serene environment, offering a harmonious blend of art and nature.
Nala House is located near the historical citadel in a peaceful, green area of Hue city. It serves as a home for a small family, a studio for a painter, and a gallery for art enthusiasts.
The design begins with the basic shape of a traditional shophouse, creating a void that cuts through the block to divide and connect spaces while incorporating greenery. This void results in a garden below, a stairway above, and five flying planters, forming the heart of the residence. All spaces in the house face this central garden. Residents can enjoy garden views from the living room, kitchen, dining room, and bedroom, while public guests experience both art and nature simultaneously.
The two-story blocks are connected by bridges that pass through the middle garden. This middle space provides natural sunlight and balanced air circulation. The house uses basic materials like concrete and glass to highlight art and nature.
Given that the owner is a painter who wants to incorporate a studio and gallery at home, functional zones were designed to ensure comfortable private and public spaces. There are two stairs and two circulation streams for residents and guests, with the studio and gallery space accessible from the middle stairway.
Nature is present in daily life throughout the house. The central void allows for more natural light and fresh air, earning the house its name, Nala, meaning a ravine or stream that runs through the house, offering physical and mental healing to its inhabitants.
Project Gallery
Project Location
Address: Hue City, Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam
Location is for general reference and may represent a city or country, not necessarily a precise address.
