Sound of Empty Heart - Bamboo

A Unique Cultural Restaurant Platform

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is known for its rich history and unique urban layout, characterized by natural water systems. Akasa Minh, a renowned architect, has created a one-of-a-kind cultural restaurant platform called "Sound of Empty Heart - Bamboo" that embraces the city's heritage and showcases the beauty of bamboo.

The inspiration for this design came from the location itself. The restaurant is situated beside the West Lake, a significant water feature surrounded by cultural heritages from dynasties dating back thousands of years. Akasa Minh wanted to create a meeting point for the citizens of Hanoi, a place that would capture the essence of the city's history and provide a special atmosphere.

The main concept behind the design is the integration of the building with its surroundings. The structure is designed to capture the inward sensitive sunlight and harness the anti-wind power caused by the West Lake's geographical characteristics. The result is a flexible volume that seamlessly adapts to the site.

One of the standout features of the design is the use of bamboo. Akasa Minh chose bamboo for its natural beauty and versatility. A total of 5500 bamboos, each measuring 6 meters in length, were transported from a forest 100 kilometers west of Hanoi. The maximum length was determined by the need to allow trucks to transport the bamboo into the city.

The restaurant's interior is adorned with a unique bamboo structure and a skylight with a filtered hinged canvas. During the late afternoon, a movable light plays on the upward surface of the roof, creating a mesmerizing effect as it reflects the light from the nearby water dock. The building not only serves as a restaurant but also provides a platform for cultural activities, enriching the contemporary life of Hanoi.

Akasa Minh faced several challenges during the design process. The building had to accommodate the city's restricted urban regulations while preserving and improving the existing trees, water dock, and small building on the site. The flexible volume and the use of bamboo allowed for a harmonious integration of the restaurant with its surroundings.

The "Sound of Empty Heart - Bamboo" design is a testament to Akasa Minh's creativity and innovation. By combining traditional bamboo construction techniques with modern architectural concepts, Akasa Minh has created a truly unique cultural restaurant platform that celebrates the history and beauty of Hanoi.

Image Credits: Akasa Minh

Awards and Accolades: This design was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in 2018. The Iron A' Design Award recognizes well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements. Akasa Minh's "Sound of Empty Heart - Bamboo" design stood out for its integration of industry best practices, competent technical characteristics, and contribution to a better world.