Foster + Partners, building upon their success with the Techcombank Headquarters in Hanoi, presents a new landmark in Ho Chi Minh City – the Techcombank office tower. This 21-story architectural marvel, designed with a focus on programmatic diversity and environmental sustainability, signifies a significant addition to the city’s skyline. The project aims to achieve LEED Platinum certification, showcasing a commitment to green building practices.
Architectural Organization
The Techcombank office tower is meticulously organized around two key principles – programmatic flexibility to accommodate various tenants and uses, and environmental responsiveness, utilizing self-shading techniques suitable for the tropical climate of Vietnam.
Spatial Design
Defined by the site’s constraints and necessary setbacks, the tower’s footprint aligns with the dual entrances – one facing Le Duan Boulevard and the other on Nguyen Du Street. Vertically, the tower manifests as two distinct blocks with a central core, strategically positioned to face the adjacent hotel. The interstitial space between the blocks serves as the amenities floor, fostering a cohesive environment for employees.
Atria and Collaborative Spaces
The design prioritizes a light-filled and inviting atmosphere, featuring three central atria that span varying heights. The first atrium spans from the base to level 9, while the subsequent two extend the full height of the tower from levels 11 and 14. These atrial voids not only enhance visual connectivity but also house meeting space ‘pods,’ promoting a collaborative and inclusive workplace culture.
Sustainable Façade Design
The floorplate edges follow a sawtooth pattern, intelligently responding to the sun’s angle. This orientation allows the tower to adeptly self-shade, contributing to energy efficiency and creating a captivating textural façade. The sun-facing edge incorporates a shading screen, while the opposite side, devoid of direct sunlight, utilizes clear glass, offering unobstructed views of the city and its surroundings.
Conclusion
The Techcombank office tower in Ho Chi Minh City, envisioned by Foster + Partners, stands as an exemplary fusion of architectural innovation, programmatic adaptability, and environmental sustainability. With a design that not only caters to diverse functionalities but also embraces the region’s climatic nuances, this tower symbolizes Techcombank’s commitment to modernity and responsible urban development. As it seeks LEED Platinum certification, the tower sets a benchmark for future structures aspiring to harmonize with both the urban landscape and ecological well-being.
