The Summer Path House: Architectural Renovation in Tho Tang
Gieo Architecture transforms an existing residential roof into a functional new living space.
1Project Overview and Scope
The Summer Path House project, led by architect Vu Ngoc Hau, encompasses a total area of 1700 square meters. Completed in 2025, this residential renovation and extension initiative focuses on repurposing existing structures. The design team, including Hoang Trung Thanh and Le Thu Phuong, successfully integrated new architectural elements into the site.
2Urban Context and Challenges
Located in the commercial neighborhood of Tho Tang, Vietnam, the site faces significant pressure from rapid urban development. The ground level is increasingly dominated by warehouses, commercial activities, and dense urban infrastructure. This shift necessitated a creative approach to residential design, pushing the living space upward to escape the congested ground level.
3Innovative Roof Transformation
The core design strategy involves transforming the roof of the existing house into a functional new ground. By creating this elevated platform, the architects established a meaningful connection between historical values and contemporary living requirements. This vertical expansion effectively reclaims space in an environment where horizontal expansion is restricted by commercial encroachment.
4Collaborative Design Execution
The project benefited from a multidisciplinary approach involving several specialized teams. Lasen Landscape managed the landscape architecture, while the G20 Team provided essential technical support. General contractor Home Viet oversaw the construction process, ensuring that the complex structural modifications were executed according to the design team's vision for the residential extension.
5Material and Brand Integration
The construction utilized specific high-quality products to ensure durability and aesthetic consistency. Manufacturers including Toto and Vietceramics provided the materials used throughout the renovation. These selections reflect a commitment to modern standards in residential construction, balancing the functional needs of a renovated home with the specific material requirements of the design.
6Architectural Design Philosophy
Gieo Architecture emphasizes the dialogue between existing structures and new interventions. By focusing on the roof as a primary living surface, the firm addresses the scarcity of private residential space in commercial hubs. This methodology prioritizes adaptive reuse, ensuring that the original house remains relevant despite the changing urban landscape surrounding it.
7Landscape and Spatial Flow
The landscape design by Lasen Landscape plays a crucial role in softening the transition between the new roof structure and the surrounding urban environment. By integrating greenery into the elevated living area, the project creates a private sanctuary. This spatial organization mitigates the noise and activity levels typically associated with commercial neighborhoods.
8Impact of Vertical Expansion
The Summer Path House serves as a model for residential development in high-density commercial zones. By successfully reclaiming the roof, the project demonstrates how architects can navigate urban constraints to improve living quality. This strategy offers a viable solution for homeowners facing similar challenges in rapidly developing regions across Vietnam and beyond.
Original article: ArchDaily Global — The Summer Path House: Architectural Renovation in Tho Tang