Detailed Planning of Mu Cang Chai New Urban Area
Project Overview
Mu Cang Chai, located in Yen Bai Province, is renowned for its breathtaking terraced fields — a Special National Heritage Site of Vietnam. With 99% of its population being ethnic minorities, mainly H’Mong people, the region preserves rich traditional cultural values of the Northwest highlands.
Ibstac Architects & Planners (IBSTAC) developed the detailed planning for the Mu Cang Chai New Urban Area, aiming to create a modern and sustainable city that connects H’Mong cultural identity with contemporary urban development. The project serves as a foundation for sustainable tourism and future investment, aligning with the vision of a “green – safe – identity – friendly” Mu Cang Chai.
Cultural and Planning Context
The distinctive culture of Mu Cang Chai — including folk songs, the Khen dance, the Gau Tao festival, and the Xoe dance of the Thai people — contributes greatly to the area’s tourism potential. These traditions, rooted in the terraced field heritage, inspire the design philosophy of the new urban area: connecting nature, people, and culture.
Planning Criteria
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Identity: Preserve and highlight the unique cultural identity of the H’Mong and Thai communities.
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Future: Build a modern and comfortable urban area that meets the needs of future generations.
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Friendly Harmony: Create a city in harmony with nature, promoting environmental and cultural sustainability.
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Heritage: Develop a city that becomes a living heritage of Yen Bai — representing its people and traditions to the world.
Design Concept
The entire planning area is envisioned as a tourism–cultural hub representing the H’Mong identity:
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North of Nam Kim Stream:
The existing downtown area, designated for commercial and service functions, serving as the economic core of the city. -
South of Nam Kim Stream:
The H’Mong cultural zone, where community spaces and ethnic architecture reflect traditional lifestyles.
The Nam Kim Stream serves as both a spatial and symbolic axis, connecting the past and future, the old and new urban centers. -
The architectural form draws inspiration from H’Mong and Thai stilt houses, terraced fields, and community spaces, creating a landscape that celebrates ethnic harmony and natural rhythm.
IBSTAC’s Vision
Through this approved planning project, IBSTAC Architects & Planners aims to:
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Encourage investment in infrastructure and tourism aligned with cultural preservation.
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Foster sustainable, green urban development based on ethnic heritage.
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Position Mu Cang Chai as a cultural tourism destination of national and international significance.
About IBSTAC Architects & Planners
With over 20 years of experience, IBSTAC Architects & Planners has consistently pursued the mission of creating unique, innovative, and comprehensive design solutions that meet international standards.
Notable projects include:
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Four Seasons Hanoi Hotel 6*
In 2020, IBSTAC was honored among the Top 10 Architecture Firms in Vietnam at the BCI Asia Awards, reaffirming its reputation in the regional architectural industry.
Proudly operated and developed by 100% Vietnamese architects and experts, IBSTAC continues to realize its vision:
“Design for a Better Life.”
Ibstac Architects & Planners
