Architects Transformed the Walls of This Resort in Vietnam Into a Hanging Jungle

By Ashley Niedringhaus
August 11, 2015
Though “living walls,” or plant installations, have been hot for the last few years, especially in urban settings, one architecture firm in northern Vietnam took this trend to new heights by draping the entire exterior of the Babylon wing at the luxe Naman Retreat in a green, leafy, facade. The results are stunning.

Located near the ever-popular town of Hoi An, the beachfront resort joins the main roads of Da Nang with historic Old Town Hoi An. Vo Trong Nghai Architects was commissioned to create a multi-level building as part of the Naman Retreat’s three-part development. When finished, the resort, which offers wellness retreats, a spa, and adventure and enrichments programs, will have bungalows and beachfront villas in addition to its current hotel.

Designed with function in mind, the architects said the living façade, crafted from a mix of indigenous tree and vines, “provides a visual barrier and a separation from the road, enhancing the resort’s privacy.” The vines also reduce the direct sunlight on the hotel while still allowing a breeze to pass through. Special heat-resistant varieties of plants were chosen to minimize thermal radiation during Vietnam’s hot season.

The living wall is planted along the corridors and balconies of the three-story, 32-room hotel, including along the walls embracing the hotel’s swimming pool. The result is a beautiful and diverse vertical landscape. The abundant greenery is described by the architects as “planted in each and every space of the resort,” which gives guests the illusion of driving into a jungle while they’re in the city.

Ashley Niedringhaus is based in Bangkok, and writes about Thailand for Travel + Leisure. Follow her on Twitter at @A_Nieds or on Instagram at @SometimesWojno.
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