Japanese architect Kengo Kuma (L, front row) visits Waterina Suites, his first project in Vietnam. (Photo: Minh Tuan)
Speaking about his evaluation trip, Kuma said: “I am very pleased and appreciate the efforts that were put into making a truly quality building from Maeda Thien Duc investor as well as all the people working at Waterina Suites. I have been following the project closely. This is the third time I’ve come to Vietnam for surveying and checking on construction progress and by far - from the overall design to the details in the lobby, utility area or apartments - everything is closely matching my design.”
Waterina Suites is the first luxury condominium project designed by the renowned Japanese architect. Located in HCMC’s District 2, it has finished topping out and is in the process of completing the surface as well as the common utility areas. The project is expected to be finished on schedule and handed over to customers in the third quarter of 2019.
Kuma represents a way of thinking that focuses on natural, subtle and elegant design. His works are characterized by serenity, softness, and flexible use of natural materials. Before designing Waterina Suites, he and his colleagues spent a lot of time in Vietnam surveying and studying from topography, climate, lifestyle to architectural thinking. The sparkling curves from the Saigon River curling around the city as well as the curves from northwestern terraced fields quickly attracted him.
Water has become the main inspiration of Kengo Kuma in the design of Waterina Suites. The overall work is a collection of soft, elegant curves, running throughout the building.
“Waterina Suites is the only condominium building I have designed so far. I hope this work is a hallmark in the good cooperation and investment relationship among Japanese investors in Vietnam,” Kuma said.
