[Photos] Local Architect Puts Modern Spin on Traditional Saigon Shophouse

Words by

December 25, 2015

In many ways, this narrow shophouse-style structure designed by MM++ Architects is just like any other. The house, not unlike its neighbors, stands four stories high and occupies a slender plot of land in District 7. However, instead of sticking to a traditional design, MM++ has transformed this typical Vietnamese house into a chic, modern living space with a facade that's both functional and elegant.

Inspired by the city's traditional shophouses, the wooden shutter screen in front makes us of a folding opening system, reports Designboom. When open, it serves as an awning and shade provider to the foyer, but the screen still offers ventilation when closed. Modeled after French colonial shutters and updated with a more industrial look, the screen can also be adjusted to suit different types of lighting.

Inside, the clean, modern theme continues with black metal staircases, exposed brick and concrete floors. The main living area is on the ground floor with sleeping quarters up above. A large skylight provides natural light throughout the narrow home, whose plot is just four meters wide and 17 meters deep.

Despite its slender frame, the house offers a balance of metal, wood and concrete elements across its four stories.