A striking new cultural and culinary destination has emerged in Ho Chi Minh City's vibrant Thao Dien district, where CHUK Heritage Cafe stands as a testament to innovative architectural design that honors Vietnamese traditions while embracing modern functionality. Designed by 6717 Studio and completed in 2024, this 350-square-meter renovation project transforms a corner location at the intersection of Street 38 and Xuan Thuy into an integrated space that houses both CHUK TEA & COFFEE and BÁNH MÌ ƠI brands, offering visitors an authentic Vietnamese experience through tea, coffee, and traditional banh mi.
The project represents more than just a commercial renovation; it embodies a sustainable vision that contributes to preserving Vietnamese cultural identity amid the rapid urbanization of Ho Chi Minh City. Located in an area known for its bustling cafes and eateries, CHUK Heritage serves as a cultural hub that provides diverse experiences while connecting people with nature and traditional Vietnamese hospitality.
The most striking architectural feature is the expansive roof inspired by traditional Vietnamese design principles. This gracefully curved structure extends outward at the corner intersection, serving not only as an eye-catching focal point but also as a bridge between interior and exterior spaces. The roof design fosters interaction with the streetscape and connects to the second floor, forming a breezy veranda that offers guests a flexible and refreshing experience in Ho Chi Minh City's tropical climate.
The design philosophy goes beyond symbolic references to traditional forms, embodying a spirit of innovation and deeper cultural exploration. Lead architect Le Viet Hoi, working with design team members Dang Thanh Bao and Nguyen Van Dong, incorporated elements such as shaded verandas, reflective water surfaces, and low seating arrangements to evoke nostalgia while offering warm, welcoming gestures to visitors. The technical team, led by Le Hoang Nam and Nguyen Ngoc Thien, ensured that these traditional elements were seamlessly integrated with modern functionality.
Inside, the design harmoniously blends tradition and modernity through the strategic use of natural materials including wood, terrazzo, raw concrete, and handcrafted ceramic tiles. These materials foster a sense of simplicity and familiarity that resonates with Vietnamese architectural heritage. Mirrors and glass elements are strategically placed throughout the space to enhance the spatial experience and cleverly obscure existing structural columns, creating an open and coherent interior that feels both spacious and intimate.
The third floor continues the architectural language of curved forms from the veranda, transforming into a tranquil, private workspace. This level features a unique blend of vaulted ceilings and open glass windows, offering a light-filled and contemporary atmosphere that provides a peaceful retreat from the bustling street life below. The space demonstrates how traditional Vietnamese architectural elements can be reinterpreted for modern work environments.
CHUK Heritage represents a successful example of how renovation projects can make positive contributions to urban development while respecting cultural heritage. The project delivers a rich, multi-sensory experience that enriches the emotional journey of every guest, serving as both a functional cafe and a meaningful cultural space. Through its thoughtful design approach, the project demonstrates how contemporary architecture can preserve and celebrate Vietnamese identity in the heart of urban transformation, creating a lasting impact on Ho Chi Minh City's evolving architectural landscape.
