A Microcosm of the Metropolis

With a population of approximately 8.6 million and an annual growth rate of 2.4%, Hanoi is experiencing rapid urbanization. This shift has heightened the demand for housing, pushing the city toward high-density developments intended to limit urban sprawl. Historically known for its rich vernacular architecture—which spans traditional Vietnamese and French colonial—Hanoi’s cityscape has become increasingly populated by generic residential towers erected to house its growing populace.

Against this backdrop, LAVA’s design for the Three-Dimensional City redefines conventional notions of high-rise living in Hanoi. Combining retail, commercial, and residential spaces across three towers, the mixed-use development sits just beyond the center of the city beside a 19-hectare lake and swathes of green. Once complete, the towers will act as a microcosm of the wider metropolis of Hanoi, addressing housing needs while promoting connection in an urban environment where people often feel disconnected from nature and community.

“The essence of society is sharing,” explains Chris Bosse, Partner at LAVA. “We share parks, public transport, air quality, culture… and with this project, we embody this idea—integrating jogging tracks, outdoor areas, swimming pools and gyms, cinemas, workspaces, and cafes with residential areas to create a three-dimensional hybrid city.” Combining verticality, community, and nature—the three dimensions of its name—LAVA’s design encourages organic interactions and prioritizes health and well-being within connected, amenity-rich buildings.

Given Hanoi’s climate—where extreme heat and extreme downpours are common—solar studies and wind tunnel testing were essential in shaping ventilation strategies that lower energy requirements and enhance the sustainability of the building. Equipped with aerodynamic bowl-shaped louvers, the building’s high-density façade provides full shading for 90% of work hours, improving air circulation and ensuring comfortable temperatures indoors throughout the day. The residential floor plans promote natural cross-ventilation, while balcony enclosures balance privacy with airflow through perforated mesh screens that shield residents from the sun. Additionally, rainwater harvested from rooftops, terraces, and façades will be repurposed for irrigation, conserving water and minimizing reliance on city supplies.

LAVA’s design for the Three-Dimensional City presents a culturally sensitive and environmentally informed approach to high-rise living that addresses the needs of an increasingly urban population. “By integrating nature, culture, and community into its framework,” explains Bosse, “this project aims to address the immediate challenges of urbanization while championing a holistic approach to urban living.”