Architect Truong Van Quang said that city planners should ensure harmony between modern architecture and the Hoan Kiem Lake environment so that new buildings would not infringe on its beauty and open spaces.
"Special old buildings like the Opera House, Government House, the State Bank, the central Post Office, Thuy Ta restaurant should be preserved and regularly upgraded," he said.
Architects advocate for natural beauty
Architectural and cultural experts together with local leaders share the same view on the need to preserve the present vista around Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi.
"And spiritual places such as Ba Kieu Temple, Ngoc Son Temple, Ba Da Pagoda and Ly Thai To Park deserve to be similarly respected," he said.
Sharing a similar view, architect Pham Thanh Tung said that special landscapes and architecture should be respected. He said no more new buildings should be built in the area.
"We should not be too interested in the idea of turning the area into a pedestrian-only zone because the existing one-way traffic system surrounding the lake is very convenient and safe," he said.
To Anh Tuan, from the Vietnam Urban Planning and Development Association, said that a pedestrian zone surrounding Hoan Kiem Lake was a choice with "not very high convenience".
"Before we change the area into a pedestrian zone or any other functional area, we should take great care of the area's existing pre-eminent values," he said.
"Any project harming the values and making the area less attractive and less busy will be an expensive failure."
Many participants said that preserving and bringing into full play architectural, cultural and historical space of Hoan Kiem Lake required cultural managers and the whole community.
22:09, 2025/01/17
Hanoi kicks off the Spring Calligraphy Festival in celebration of Lunar New Year
The annual cultural event will welcome locals and visitors alike from now until February 9, 2025, offering a delightful experience in celebration of the Lunar New Year.
15:25, 2025/01/17
Behold the unique collection of snake lacquer statues
Step into Vietnamese tradition and craftsmanship with the enchanting “Thach Ong Xa” collection of lacquered statues in celebration of the Year of the Snake, 2025.
21:20, 2025/01/14
Hanoi revives historic Tet traditions in Duong Lam Ancient Village
Travelers are invited to experience the charm of Vietnam's ancient Tet celebrations in the picturesque village of Duong Lam on the outskirts of Hanoi.
21:28, 2025/01/13
Young voices celebrate and preserve Hanoi’s cultural heritage
The "Voice of Heritage" finale celebrated Hanoi's cultural soul as 14 student teams passionately brought the city's rich history to life.
22:46, 2025/01/11
Hanoi celebrates Lunar New Year with dazzling drone light show
The capital is ready to ring in 2025 with a spectacular display of light, music, and culture.
22:02, 2025/01/06
Prime Minister sets vision for Vietnamese football: Asian glory and World Cup dreams
Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh hopes Vietnam's football team will win the Asian title and qualify for the World Cup.
- A glimpse of the 24K gold Lunar New Year 2025 Snake Mascot
- Vietnam crown AFF Cup 2024 following a thrilling win over Thailand
- Hanoi recreates unique ritual of Thai ethnic minority
- Hanoi announces entry fees for historic sites
- Hanoi: Toad Fountain renovation project completed
- Hanoi celebrates New Year 2025 with art exhibitions