Saigon Opera - The Intersection of a Continuously Transforming Culture
With the Saigon Opera (Symphony, Music, and Ballet Theater) project, Korn Design didn't draw rigid lines between tradition and modernity. Instead, we aimed for an open-minded approach to experiencing the space. This building is more than just a theater; it is a work of art featuring the architect's unique perspective, reflecting the dynamic development of Ho Chi Minh City. Our design proposal was honored with the Fourth Prize in the "Architectural Design Plan Competition" organized by the Management Board of Construction Investment Projects of Civil and Industrial Works of Ho Chi Minh City.
The design’s sophistication lies not only in the building’s overall shape but also in the purposeful formation of every detail. The structure's overall form was designed by Korn Design to evoke associations with the humble lotus flower, the flowing Ao Dai dress, or the hulls of the trading boats navigating the Mekong River. This combination aims to establish a visual language that is inherently inspired by the diverse cultural forms of Southern Vietnam. Through this, Korn Design seeks to create a structure that resists a single, definitive visual interpretation, allowing viewers the freedom to feel and craft their own story.
The poetic nature of the concept is inseparable from logic and functional efficiency. The foundation of the design stems from a deep analysis of the site context, establishing three main spatial orientation axes: the axis toward Me Linh Square and the Saigon River, the axis toward the central plaza, and the axis connecting to the Thu Thiem 2 Bridge. Along these axes, critical functional blocks are purposefully arranged: the 1,200-seat Main Auditorium is located on the primary axis, the 500-seat Multi-functional Theater is on the second secondary axis, and the rehearsal and educational area is positioned on the remaining axis, ensuring every space is easily accessible from the exterior. From this functional order, the building’s overall form gradually takes shape, with dominant lines developed to spread and harmonize with the surrounding landscape, creating a coherent landmark for the city without disrupting the overall Thu Thiem master plan.
Korn Design conceived the building as a space for cultural exchange and daily gatherings, complete with public plazas, an outdoor stage, and a cultural experience path on the roof. These functional features are more than decorative; they are foundations for a convenient way of life, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in a large communal space. Furthermore, the building’s entirely glazed façade offers panoramic views of the impressive city skyline from within, creating a highly engaging experience.
The Saigon Opera is a project where Korn Design has devoted passion to delivering a memorable, iconic architectural destination for both visiting tourists and the residents of Ho Chi Minh City. The design of this facility will contribute to elevating the artistic appreciation of the public, fostering cultural exchange with international partners, and steadily developing Vietnam’s integration into world culture. With this design proposal, Korn Design hopes to introduce an artistic, world-class cultural masterpiece.