The installation space in the photos is from the CHẤM Exhibition, part of Vietnam Design Week 2023 at Văn Miếu – Quốc Tử Giám. Designed by Lam Weaving Spaces in collaboration with HMLarchitecture, the work features lantern panels made from dó paper, a traditional Vietnamese material, mounted in lightweight wooden frames and suspended in the historic wooden space of Văn Miếu. These panels emit a soft, warm glow, with the golden hue of the dó paper enhancing the warmth and antiquity of the environment.
The use of dó paper, a material symbolizing the cultural continuity of Vietnam, reflects both heritage and progression. These illuminated panels are more than just light sources; they are symbols of knowledge, placed within the ancient scholarly setting of Quốc Tử Giám. The layout of the installation creates a meditative atmosphere, inviting visitors to interact with the space through both visual and emotional engagement.
“Chấm Exhibition is an exhibition space designed by HMLarchitecture for the #VietnamDesignWeek, #VNDW2023 event, showcasing 30 finalist works from the #DesignedbyVietnam2023 competition at Nhà Tiền Đường Thái Học, Văn Miếu – Quốc Tử Giám. This space was meticulously prepared, from design, testing, production, to installation. Architect Hồ Mộng Long referred to the term ‘Dialogue’ when positioning his design within a heritage site, which LAM interpreted as a respectful continuation of old values through new creativity, combining to create a special and harmonious value.
As the technical development, production, and installation unit, LAM believes that dedication, focus, and creativity through the best solutions represent the most fitting ‘dialogue’ with traditional construction techniques.”
“To make the display panels appear to ‘float’ in the space, LAM used thin, high-strength parachute cords, 0.3 mm in thickness, capable of supporting up to 15 kg per strand, matching the brown color of the wooden frame. Single-color electrical wires, the thinnest possible that could handle the LED power for the panels, were selected. The installation dimensions were carefully calculated to ensure precise placement, which was crucial for controlling the overall shape.
The architect closely monitored the installation process, making timely adjustments to align with the actual setting and the design concept. A notable aspect was that the installation method fully ‘borrowed’ the existing structure, requiring minimal connections, allowing for easy setup without any impact on the original structure. This is a solution that LAM is particularly proud of.”
