Hanoi Fair

The objectives outlined in the Brief consist in the realization in Hanoi of a modern complex dedicated to exhibitions and events, comparable to similar structures all over the world. Particular attention should be paid to the architectural and landscape design, to create a new historical development for the northern area of the Red River. In light of these objectives, and of the functional requirements outlined in the Brief, the guiding and most innovative idea behind our proposal was the creation of an open environmental system that interacts with the surrounding landscape. The organization of the New Exhibition Center is based on the “classic” structure of a central axis flanked by functions characterized by maximum flexibility and efficiency. However, unlike conventional plans for similar structures, our proposal does not feature an artificial organism that has simply been superimposed on the site; on the contrary, it interprets the New Vietnam National Exhibition & Fair Center as an intervention to be built in harmony with the environment and the landscape. The project looks at the relationship with the environmental context of the river and wetlands, giving the same attention to the infrastructural network of transport and mobility and to the signs of the typical urban structure of the future city of Hanoi. In this way the intervention will create a real landmark for Hanoi, achieving this goal through spectacle and attraction, also through the physical and sensorial experience of a new approach to the landscape. Landscape design is based on the principles of fluidity, flexibility and rhythm. The city’s modern rhythms and their needs should also be reflected in its public spaces, creating comfortable and multifunctional zones in residential areas and workplaces. The concept of fluid landscape is mainly a set of different speeds and rhythms of movement divided into functional zones, according to their uses. A critical analysis and a careful study of the territory clearly reveal an agricultural grid. Highly exploited agricultural land must be protected; for this reason the project aims to integrate the new fluid forms of the landscape within the existing rigid agricultural network. A system of cycling and walking paths runs through the fields to offer people the chance to explore the agricultural landscape. The new multipurpose public space proposed consists of several elements: Welcome Square, Water Features, Entertainment Area, Active Park, Laisure Area, Panoramic platforms, Playgrounds, Natural Paths. Eight main elements suggest different themes of public recreation and leisure. Each of the landscape elements mentioned above offers the opportunity to relax, have fun, learn and spend free time both beneficial and in absolute comfort. The new Vietnam National Exhibition & Fair Center in Hanoi is an exclusive and unique place for tourists and residents, characterized by a sense of safety and security. Indeed, the top priority is to take care of the younger generation, younger families, the elderly, teenagers and adults, in order to create a landscape where everyone has a special atmosphere. Our hope? That the studied area will finally become a place to stay, a place to live, guiding visitors through its natural and historical peculiarities by immersing them in today’s landscape.

CREDITS

• Architectural Design: Giovanni Vaccarini Architetti

• Engineering and Project Management: Proger S.p.A.

• Project Team:
  Giovanni Vaccarini
  Giovanna Mar
  Alessandro Scandurra
  Umberto Zanetti
  Francesca Di Giannantonio
  Alfonso Di Felice
  Paola Bellagamba

• Landscape Design: LAND Milano S.r.l.

• Mobility Planning: Systematica S.r.l.; IPTE – Institute of Planning and Transportation Engineering

• Client: Socialist Republic of Vietnam

• Location: Hanoi, Vietnam