located in one of the most air polluted cities in the world, vietnamese architect hung nguyen aims to generate clean air with the ‘pavilion of the origins’ in hanoi, vietnam. the space attempts to bring back clean air by setting a hub for living ornamental plants. in addition to their aesthetic, the greenery helps purify the air by absorbing harmful toxins that are attributed to high traffic volumes and industrial activities.



the pavilion consists of air-purifying plants help absorb harmful toxins in the air

all images © nguyen thai thach

nguyen’s pavilion sits on the terrace of a three storey house in hanoi, where the main structure is composed of many cuboid frames. the suspending 200 x 200 x 200 mm cubic planters distribute purification in every corner of the pavilion. each frame lies on various heights and either act as small pavilions for the plants or a slinging hammock, thus creating a harmonious relationship between human, nature and space.



the superposition of cuboid frames

the architect implements a number of factors in attempt to be as green as possible; both the color of the upcycled steel frames and the round pebble stones on the floor are white, reflecting the light in multiple directions, while the translucent polycarbonate roof reduces solar radiation. plants grow and spread along the structure, acting as a rope to tighten the interaction and connection between humans and nature.



overlay of the mesh from the top



view from the entrance



a model of the ‘pavilion of the origins’



bird’s-eye-view of the pavilion

diagram illustrating the different components of the project



masterplan of the pavilion



elevations of the project



a comprehensive list of air-purifying plants

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: lynn chaya | designboom