Once completed, this ambitious project will house Vietnam’s first independent institution for higher learning. Designed by SHoP, the 15-hectare masterplan is located outside Ho Chi Minh City in District 9’s Saigon High Tech Park. The first of three phases broke ground in June 2019. Its site plan is oriented around a central lawn, that is defined and framed by a variety of building typologies and styles. A library and social hub (Forum Building) tops the axis, flanked by a series of classroom and student life buildings (Lawn Buildings) and adjacent housing in two Flatiron Buildings. The Maker Building completes the axis, and the boundary of the outdoor lawn.

 

Each of the four building typologies is further differentiated by a unique facade, and many integrate passive cooling techniques to sustainably mitigate the hot, humid climate. Heintges played a key role in rationalizing and customizing curtain wall systems for all four types. For example, the Forum Building’s fully glazed envelope uses an exterior truss system to support shading elements; the system is designed with elegant curved lines that animate the expansive main facade of the building. 

Heintges performed parametric structural analysis of the system's undulating spans, and worked closely with energy consultants and mechanical engineers to develop the facade's passive ventilation strategies, including sun shading and vents. 

 

The Lawn Buildings incorporate another unique sun shading system of custom-profile terra cotta cladding fit over ribbon windows. Heintges worked with local manufacturers to rationalize the tile and optimize thermal performance. Other curtain wall designs include: a customized unitized curtain wall system with shading elements, an outdoor oculus with monumental curved glass, and a scalloped brick facade requiring a rationalized, custom masonry technique.

 

Heintges provided building envelope and curtain wall consulting services during design phases.