Naman Retreat the Babylon / VTN Architects

Curated by ArchDaily

Text description provided by the architects. Beside the main linking road between Danang city and Hoi An old town, Naman retreat resort, a qualified coastal resort is located 16 km away from Danang international airport. The concept of resort is providing physical and mental treatment for the long stay guests by the nature friendly environment and healthy activities such as spa, yoga, beach sports and so on. To achieve a perfect atmosphere that enable the guests a maximum body and mind purification and relaxation, the resort was designed by harmonious mix of greenery, natural stone and bamboo.

The 1^st phase of the project site was 3.4 hectares between a road and beach. To accommodate guests with abundant green landscaping area with diversity of space and privacy, 3 types of accommodation: Beach villas, Bungalows and Hotel building are prepared.

The Babylon

The multistory hotel building, named the Babylon having a façade combines concrete louvers with greenery interspersed, is visually interesting landmark from direction of the sea coast. The green layer provides visual barrier that creates the separation from the road to enhance the privacy of the resort. The finishing material keeping its natural appearance of its base, achieves effeminacy and harmony with the surrounding nature.

The building consists of 3 floors with 32 rooms. The layout is arranged in an L-shape embracing the swimming pool. Balconies overlooking the pool attract to water activities while still remain discreet and allow a private relaxation behind the green facade. The pool is both opened and discreet which is suitable for guests who enjoy relaxing in semi-private atmosphere that is totally immersed in the wonderful nature.

Heat-resistant Façade with Green Layer

The perimeter of the building is covered by a system of vertical concrete louvers with green vines which reduces direct sun shining while allowing the wind flow. For heat-resistant which minimizes thermal radiation in hot season in the tropical climate, the façade is working as a buffer space allowing plants to grow. 5x15cm precast concrete louver with wooden texture achieved from of formwork is utilizing the natural color of material to provide closeness with nature.

Plants are present everywhere. The greenery has been planted in each and every space of the resort; it contributes to bringing nature into resort's landscape. When guests approach the Babylon, they may feel like diving into a tropical nature through the green facade and corridor. Even from the bathroom, it is possible to capture plants through their balcony.

The green façade consists of combination of trees and vines such as: Quisqualis indica climbing along the concrete louver, Vernonia elliptica, Spathiphyllum wallisii and Aglaia duperreana are planted along the corridors and balconies. The combination creates diversity of the vertical landscape.