Hanoi is planning a revamp of Dong Kinh – Nghia Thuc Square, a historically significant cultural area. Deputy Mayor Dương Đức Tuấn has issued a directive for the renovation, aiming to revitalize and redesign the area.
Hanoi plans to demolish the "Shark Fin" building in Dong Kinh – Nghia Thuc Square
The new plan prioritizes optimizing the architectural and landscape design of Dong Kinh – Nghia Thuc Square. The area, historically rich, is situated between Hoan Kiem Lake (north) and the Old Quarter (south), creating a vital connection. This renovation will be undertaken concurrently with projects to develop public spaces around Hoan Kiem Lake, as directed by the central government.
Key Areas in the Redevelopment Plan:
- Đường Đinh Tiên Hoàng (Đinh Tiên Hoàng Street)
- The surfaces and surrounding streets (Đinh Tiên Hoàng, Cầu Gỗ, Hồ Hoàn Kiếm Street, etc.)
- Long Vân – Hồng Vân Building
- Hồ Gươm Cultural Information Center
- Thủy Tạ Building
City Government Decision:
The Hoan Kiem District People’s Committee is tasked with creating a specific urban design plan for Dong Kinh – Nghia Thuc Square, encompassing the area north of Hoan Kiem Lake and south of the Old Quarter. After finalizing the conceptual plan, the Hoan Kiem District will collaborate with consulting firms to seek input from the city’s architectural council to finalize and standardize the urban design plan.
The Department of Urban Planning and Architecture is responsible for assisting and guiding the Hoan Kiem District People’s Committee in implementing this redevelopment plan.
Key Focus: Demolishing the “Shark Fin” Building
A crucial element of the plan involves demolishing the “Shark Fin” building to create underground space in the square. The city government is exploring the creation of approximately three levels of underground parking, which could include cultural and commercial spaces (ground floor), and parking areas (second and third floors).
Other Requirements:
- Study changes to the facades of the Long Vân – Hồng Vân building, the Thủy Tạ building, the Hồ Gươm Cultural Information Center, and existing residential buildings.
- Thoroughly assess the existing greenery and develop a plan to preserve heritage trees in the area.
- Research the placement of light towers.
The redevelopment of Dong Kinh – Nghia Thuc Square promises to bring a modern architectural and landscape design, while upholding the historical and cultural significance of the area. The demolition of the “Shark Fin” building is a vital step in the renovation process, setting the stage for sustainable development in the region. Hanoi aims to create a more complete Dong Kinh – Nghia Thuc Square, fulfilling the needs of local residents and tourists.
