The Diamond Lotus residential houses 720 families with 3 condominium complexes under the same roof. Located only 3.5 km from the center of Ho Chi Minh City, this project is noted as the first green landmark. The building provides poolside, city and lake views and is only 3 km from the Fine Arts Museum.
Prior to rapid urbanization in Vietnam, houses were one with nature. The Binh house is an attempt to combine modern living with nature’s beauty coexisting. They call this style the “house for trees” because of the greenery throughout the architecture. These homes utilize sustainable materials such as stone, wood and exposed concrete to reduce environmental impact, as well as its operational and maintenance costs. (dezeen.com)
Green City Hall
Bac Ninh province is transitioning into an industrial zone in northern Vietnam. The government of Bac Ninh is trying to remove its ecological footprint. This project is to be the center of the city and a place where greenery and culture intermingle.
Bamboo Ceremony Dome in Son La
Located in Son La City, Vietnam, these domes are surrounded by high mountains and dense vegetation near the city center. The domes are the symbol of the city. There are 3 different sizes of domes amongst the concourse. The largest dome with a height of (15.6 meters) is a restaurant. The other sizes of domes are used as a foyer, lounge seating, and ceremonial welcoming areas. They stand at 12.5 and 10.5 meters tall.
Ting Xi Bamboo Restaraunt
Located in Xiamen, China the Ting Xi Bamboo restaurant is a centerpiece for the city. Bamboo is known amongst architects as a quality sustainable “green” material for its ability to rapidly replenish as well as its ability to absorb CO2. This restaurant can hold up to 200 people and has uniquely crafted spaces inside its doors.
This Theatre is the location of the apostle Paul’s last sermon to the Ephesians. The city its self is an archaeological phenomenon and one of the most incredible places to visit. Ephesus was one of the most technologically advanced cities in ancient history. This theatre still stands tall and strong after being buried for thousands of years. The acoustics from the stage allowed visitors at the top row to hear without microphones from a normal speaking voice.
The skyscraper ceilings and infinite detail of St.Peter’s Basilica strike you as you enter the Vatican City. It is breathtaking as you walk what seems like a mile to get the center of the cathedral. The acoustics ceilings, walls, floors were handcrafted for decades to make one of the most gorgeous buildings the world has and will ever see.
One of the largest temples ever constructed in Greece. The Parthenon was built for the goddess Athena in 5th century. I was able to visit these ruins that are still in great shape for its age. The picture does not do the Parthenon any justice for its vastness. We walked up a very steep hill just to get to the site and once we were there it overlooked much of the Athens.
I am one of the lucky students that have been able to see and experience the beautiful Roman Architecture. One of my favorite locations was the Pantheon. Standing under the giant columns you realize the amount of weight that some floats above you. As you walk in the giant doorway you enter a room full of incredible light and the largest ancient dome sits above your head. I found it interesting that they still aren’t sure what this building was constructed for.
