IAF 2025 VIETNAM: Connecting Inspirational Architectural Thinking Across the Region

The "Ideal Architecture Festival Global Tour" officially arrived in Ho Chi Minh City, marking a special milestone that positions Vietnam on the regional design and architecture map. This event is not only a platform for professionals but also a source of inspiration, fostering dialogue about future living spaces across Asia.

Cross-Border Design – A Shared Language for Development

The IAF 2025 conference space in Vietnam brought a sense of both intimacy and global engagement, with the presence of hundreds of experts, architects, designers, and businesses from China, Singapore, Japan, Malaysia, and Vietnam. Together, they opened in-depth discussions under one central theme: design is not merely about aesthetics—it’s a tool for driving social progress, restructuring communities, and shaping local identities within the global context.

In this multidimensional space, design was recognized as a “universal language,” transcending geographical and cultural boundaries to convey deep human values. Design thinking, thus, must go beyond technical execution—it should be tied to sustainable development, intercultural communication, and the transformation of modern living environments.

Green and Vernacular Design Thinking

One of the most anticipated presentations came from architect Võ Trọng Nghĩa, founder of VTN Architects. He is well-known as a pioneer in shaping a school of “green architecture with a Vietnamese soul,” behind iconic projects such as the Bamboo House, the Vietnam Pavilion at Milan Expo, and the globally acclaimed House for Trees series.

In his talk at IAF Vietnam, he shared a core philosophy: design must originate from nature, understand human needs, and embody local identity. He emphasized: “Architecture should not only be admired—it must live in harmony with the natural environment, with local people, and their cultural memory.” Simple yet profound solutions such as the use of bamboo, natural ventilation, reducing concrete, and promoting symbiosis between structures and nature were passionately presented.

Human-Centered Design and Rural Regeneration

Alongside the Vietnamese voice was architect Chen Guodong—founder of MUME Design and Creative Director of Wuming Architecture Studio (China)—who brought a unique perspective: design for rural communities. Starting in forgotten regions of Guizhou, his team revitalized villages through modest projects: public toilets, wooden bridges, and community spaces.

His architectural philosophy focuses on the idea that “design is social restoration,” with each project serving as a bridge between past and present—reconnecting people with their cultural roots. He movingly shared: “We don’t just build houses—we rebuild trust, reconnect communities, and revive lost cultural memories.” Particularly, the modular wooden home model "Tianxiang Baigong"—which can be disassembled, expanded, and adapted—stood as a powerful testament to harmonizing technology with tradition.

CIVRO – Material Technology Breakthroughs for Future Structures

As a global partner of the IAF event series, CIVRO not only sponsored but also introduced cutting-edge material technologies at the event. Products like smart responsive glass, anti-dust coatings, and optimized thermal insulation systems tailored for tropical climates redefined what “interactive architectural materials” mean for people and the environment.

Material technology is no longer just a technical component—it has become a creative tool in the hands of designers. CIVRO’s solutions were showcased through real-world projects across dynamic markets like Southeast Asia, demonstrating the potential to redefine the future of smart and sustainable construction.

KTS Võ Trọng Nghĩa

IAF Vietnam 2025 – A Convergence of Design, Technology, and Community

Unlike traditional architectural conferences, IAF Vietnam has established its own distinct identity—a multidimensional platform where architecture is no longer a static product but the result of interactions between technology, local identity, natural elements, and community participation.

Through face-to-face dialogues, professionals revisited fundamental questions about the designer’s role:How do we move beyond the cycle of imitation?How do we root design in specific socio-cultural contexts?Above all, how can design become a catalyst for positive social change?

The Ho Chi Minh City Design Association (VDAS), the official organizer of IAF in Vietnam, extends sincere thanks to Guangzhou Design Week, GIA, global partners, distinguished speakers, and all guests for contributing to this memorable milestone of IAF 2025 – Vietnam.

This event not only affirms Vietnam’s growing integration in the global design and architecture scene but also opens a path toward sustainable development based on local values, creativity, and international collaboration. VDAS remains committed to being a trusted bridge between Vietnam and the global architecture community—driving strategic growth and spreading constructive design values across all areas of life.

Contact Information

Email: info@vietnamdesign.org.vn

Hotline: +84 938 871 899

Website: https://vi.vietnamdesign.org.vn/