A new educational facility has been completed in one of Vietnam's most challenging terrains, bringing modern learning opportunities to an ethnic minority community in the remote mountains of Central Vietnam. The Nuoc Ui School, designed by renowned Vietnamese firm VTN Architects, stands as a testament to sustainable architecture and community-focused design in the face of harsh environmental conditions.
Located in Tra Mai commune within Nam Tra My district of Quang Nam province, the school serves a scattered ethnic minority population that has long struggled with limited access to educational infrastructure. The region experiences severe weather conditions annually, including devastating storms and heavy rainfall that have historically made construction and maintenance of buildings extremely difficult. The challenging terrain and remote location have posed significant obstacles to previous development efforts in the area.
The project represents a collaborative effort between multiple organizations committed to improving educational access in underserved communities. Primary funding for the 295-square-meter facility came from the Midas Foundation, while Tostem provided sponsorship for doors and windows. The architectural design was led by Vo Trong Nghia, the principal architect of VTN Architects, who has gained international recognition for sustainable and locally-adapted architectural solutions.
The school's design philosophy centers on creating a sustainable, environmentally friendly, and locally adapted learning environment that can withstand the region's harsh weather conditions while serving the specific needs of the ethnic minority community. The architects incorporated traditional building techniques with modern sustainable technologies to ensure the structure would be both culturally appropriate and environmentally resilient. The design takes into account the scattered nature of the community it serves, with considerations for accessibility and safety during severe weather events.
Completed in 2025, the Nuoc Ui School represents more than just an educational facility; it serves as a model for how thoughtful architecture can address the complex challenges faced by remote communities. The project demonstrates VTN Architects' continued commitment to sustainable design practices and community-centered architecture that responds to local environmental and cultural conditions. The school is expected to significantly improve educational opportunities for children in the region who previously faced long and dangerous journeys to attend classes.
