Sadhu - A Meditative Vegetarian Restaurant

Project idea

The idea of this project stems from a desire to create a serene refuge within the heart of the bustling city. Located at the intersection of Nguyen Khac Hieu and Ngu Xa, the site sits quietly by Truc Bach Lake - a space suspended between the fast-paced present and a slower, more contemplative past. The architectural intent was not simply to build a restaurant, but to offer a space for mindful living, where architecture becomes a vessel for silence, nature, and spiritual nourishment. “Sadhu,” a Sanskrit word meaning “well done” or “blessed,” defines the spirit of the project - one of reverence, stillness, and thoughtful presence.

Project description

The project includes three main levels, each designed to guide visitors on a gradual journey inward. The ground floor is open and communal, with a lush courtyard where diners gather under natural light and greenery. The second floor houses the main dining space - a tranquil hall surrounding a central Buddha statue, framed by a bamboo canopy that evokes the feeling of sitting beneath a forest. The top floor is reserved for quiet retreat, offering seating beside small rooftop gardens with views of the lake and city. Each space invites introspection, slowness, and connection - with oneself, with others, and with the natural world.

Technical information

The structure uses natural materials including raw bamboo, terracotta bricks, granite, and wooden slats. A central bamboo dome on the second floor serves as both a visual and spiritual focal point, constructed with radial precision to create a sense of unity and shelter. Walls are layered to allow soft indirect lighting to filter through, creating a calm atmosphere throughout the day. The project prioritizes passive cooling, natural ventilation, and sustainable material sourcing, integrating local craftsmanship and environmental sensitivity into its architectural expression.

Documentation

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