rollimarchini Architekten · g8a architects
Tropical factory Saigon
best architects 23
commercial/industrial buildings
Place
Saigon, Vietnam
Photos
Oki Hiroyuki
Description
Since Vietnam’s economic reform in 1986, the country
has experienced rapid growth. A predominantly agricultural economy has evolved
into one based on industrial production. In a breathtaking process guided by
few regulations, new industrial sites have been built with little regard for
land, energy or environmental resources. In close cooperation with the client
and the local architectural firm G8A architects, a concept was developed that
demonstrates an exemplary approach to resource-oriented and social
sustainability. In the multi-storey production buildings arranged around a
central courtyard, the usual full air conditioning is dispensed with. The core
elements are the open and greened façades. In keeping with traditional tropical
architecture, they provide protection from rain and sun, while always ensuring
natural ventilation. The selected plants contribute to lowering the temperature
inside the building through evaporation and, as filters, decisively improve the
air quality at the workplaces. The photovoltaic system installed on the
building roofs can cover a large part of the energy demand. A greened inner
courtyard becomes a campus with its function as a microclimate space. There is
space for fitness and sports activities as well as shady areas for the
employees’ traditional siesta.