Project Overview
Located in Bach Dang Ward, Ha Long City, the Quang Ninh Clock Tower is not only a key urban traffic island but also envisioned as a cultural and architectural landmark representing the identity of Ha Long City.
With a unique concept inspired by local heritage, the proposal by IBSTAC Architects & Planners (IBSTAC) was honored with the Second Prize in the 2009 design competition organized by the Quang Ninh Provincial People’s Committee.
Project Information
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Project name: Quang Ninh Clock Tower
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Category: Culture / Urban Landmark
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Location: Bach Dang Ward, Ha Long City, Quang Ninh Province, Vietnam
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Design unit: IBSTAC Design Consultancy JSC (IBSTAC Architects & Planners)
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Investor: Quang Ninh Provincial People’s Committee
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Design year: 2009
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Award: Second Prize – 2009
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Scale: Traffic island radius 25m; total area 1,962.5 m²
Design Concept
Architectural Symbolism
The design draws inspiration from the legend of the Dragon descending into Ha Long Bay, carrying with it the “Jewel of Time.”
The 50-meter-tall tower features fluid, wave-like curves intertwined with the form of a mythical dragon.
A spherical clock (5.7m in diameter) positioned at a height of 35–40m acts as a striking visual centerpiece by both day and night.
Spatial Organization
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Option 1 – Vertical Emphasis: A 50m tower offering panoramic visibility from the bay and main city avenues.
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Option 2 – Horizontal Emphasis: A compact, solid form contained within a 25m radius, emphasizing balance and contrast.
Materials & Landscape
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Structure: Reinforced concrete with a metallic ceramic tile finish, evoking shimmering sea waves.
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Base: Light-colored natural stone, engraved with Ha Long’s cultural motifs.
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Landscape: Greenery and lawns arranged in wave patterns, complementing the architectural rhythm.
Lighting Design
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Daytime: Strong contrasts of solid and void, accentuating the dynamic curvature.
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Nighttime: Integrated LED and laser lighting highlights the “Jewel of Time”, transforming the structure into a radiant symbol of Ha Long City.
Architectural Significance
The Quang Ninh Clock Tower stands as a fusion of culture, modernity, and symbolism, celebrating Ha Long’s maritime spirit through contemporary architectural language.
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:
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
