Mixing Live and Work in a Contextual Architecture Marvel

The Kaleidoscope is a mixed-use building designed by Inrestudio to pay close attention to the surrounding context. Located in a remote area of Quang Binh Province, Vietnam, this building that accommodates living and workplaces has to deal with an extreme tropical climate all year round.

The strong contexts shape The Kaleidoscope into a strong building while being comfortable for framing the scenery.

On the other hand, the project is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, such as green hills and blue seas. These two contexts then push The Kaleidoscope into a space that can provide protection while increasing the relationship between its users and nature. Following the kaleidoscopic meaning in its naming - framing the scenery from different directions in each moment.

The cone-shaped roof of this building is similar to the traditional hat of Vietnamese farmers (nón lá).

This roof has several openings to support the building's air circulation.

Inrestudio started The Kaleidoscope's design by arranging its two levels' floor plans. The plan of this building is arranged by triangular-shaped volumes that define private and public space. Private spaces such as private bedrooms and offices are placed inside the volume, which is more protected.

The balcony on the second floor is a great place to enjoy the surrounding scenery.

Meanwhile, the space between these volumes is allocated for general functions such as the head office, living room, and convention hall. On the second floor, two fairly spacious open spaces serve as balconies to frame the scenery in front of it.

The central office used to work during the day and live at night.

To shelter the entire room inside the building, Inrestudio designed a cone-shaped concrete roof similar to the traditional hat of Vietnamese farmers (nón lá). This roof, with a double-layer structure, acts as a natural heat insulator that allows the center of the building to remain shady and open simultaneously.

Ventilation blocks line the outer surface of The Kaleidoscope.

The interior of the private workspace behind the ventilation block.

In response to local climatic conditions, the outer wall of The Kaleidoscope is designed as a ventilation block that still prioritizes the privacy of the spaces behind it. These hollow blocks of precast concrete are very familiar in Vietnam because they have a dual role in air circulation and produce impressive light patterns. Inrestudio believes that the space experience presented by The Kaleidoscope can support its function as a place to live and work.

First-floor plan.

Second-floor plan.

Longitudinal section.