Lotte Center Hanoi, a towering symbol of Vietnam’s burgeoning economy and modernization, stands tall in the Ba Dinh district of Hanoi. Completed in September, 2014, this 65-story skyscraper, designed by the American architectural firm Callison, showcases a modern design inspired by the Vietnamese áo dài. This case study delves into the project’s various facets, from its design and construction to its impact on Hanoi’s urban landscape.
Lotte Center Hanoi is a mixed-use development encompassing a wide range of functions within its impressive structure. The building houses Grade A offices, a five-star hotel, serviced apartments, a shopping mall with a Lotte Department Store and a Lotte Mart, restaurants, a spa, and an observation deck offering panoramic views of Hanoi.
The building’s strategic location at the intersection of Lieu Giai and Dao Tan streets places it at a significant juncture between Hanoi’s old and new districts, providing convenient access to both the central business district and the scenic West Lake area.
The design of Lotte Center Hanoi draws inspiration from the elegant form of the áo dài, Vietnam’s traditional long dress. The tower’s sleek, tapered profile and bold vertical lines evoke the flowing lines of the garment. A central “slit,” or spine, divides the building into two distinct towers, creating a unique architectural feature. This spine also houses the sky gardens, a series of five-story atria that rise through the building’s height. These gardens serve both an aesthetic and a functional purpose, providing communal spaces, reducing reliance on electrical lighting, and enhancing the building’s sustainability.
The building incorporates several innovative construction techniques and technologies. These include a robust outrigger system for lateral force resistance, low-carbon dioxide concrete, double low-E multi-layer glass for energy efficiency, and super-delayed concrete. The foundation rests on Vietnam’s largest support base, ensuring stability for the towering structure. The center boasts 30 high-speed elevators, traveling at 6 meters per second, facilitating smooth movement throughout the building.
Lotte Center Hanoi is recognized as Hanoi’s first intelligent multiplex building, incorporating various sustainable design elements. The building’s orientation minimizes direct solar heat gain during summer months. The pressurized sky gardens prevent outside air infiltration while promoting cross-ventilation within adjacent spaces. The unique geometry of the sky gardens significantly reduces electrical lighting usage. Furthermore, membrane bioreactors in the basement treat all wastewater on-site, minimizing environmental impact.
Retail: The podium section of the building houses a six-floor Lotte Department Store and a basement-level Lotte Mart, offering a wide range of shopping options.
Offices: Floors 8 to 31 provide Grade A office spaces, catering to international businesses and organizations.
Hotel: The east tower, from floors 33 to 64, accommodates a 320-key five-star hotel, providing luxurious lodging and amenities.
Serviced Apartments: The west tower, also spanning floors 33 to 64, offers 258 serviced apartments, catering to long-term residents.
Observation Deck: Located on the 65th floor, the Top of Hanoi observation deck offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city. A separate lift takes visitors to the 67th floor (denoted as PH), the rooftop, which houses a bar and a mini restaurant.
Lotte Center Hanoi has become a prominent landmark in Hanoi’s skyline, contributing significantly to the city’s modernization and economic growth. The project has attracted international businesses, boosted tourism, and provided employment opportunities. The building’s sustainable design features set a new standard for environmentally conscious construction in Vietnam. Furthermore, the center’s mixed-use nature creates a vibrant hub for shopping, dining, entertainment, and business, enhancing the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.
