Passion for preserving and sharing knowledge

Architect Nguyen Cong Hiep, born in 1986 in Hanoi , is currently a lecturer in the History of Architecture department at Hanoi Architectural University. With a deep passion for architecture and knowledge, he has devoted much effort to building CA' Library (formerly Library 303), one of the first community libraries specializing in architecture and art books, contributing to creating a space for connecting and sharing knowledge for those passionate about this type of art.

The Architecture - Art Library is where he put a lot of effort into building . Photo: THANH THAO

For many people, student years are a beautiful and memorable time. But for Nguyen Cong Hiep, it was also the time that started a great passion, a mission that did not stop at studying, but also preserved and imparted invaluable knowledge about architecture. “In fact, from the first days when I was a second-year student at Hanoi Architectural University, I began to form a habit that later became a part of my career. Everything started with my internships in my teacher's office. At that time, I was extremely impressed with the massive bookshelf in his office, which contained many valuable architectural books that were not easily found on the market. But at that time, owning an architectural book was not easy. The cost of buying books at that time was quite high, and for a student like me, it was a big challenge,” Nguyen Cong Hiep recalled.

Architect Nguyen Cong Hiep has had the habit of preserving books since his university years . Photo: NVCC

That's why he started to have an idea: "As a student, I don't have much money and if I can't buy, I can gradually collect books from my internships and my small savings." And that habit of collecting (not just books) is also a way for him to preserve valuable knowledge that he knows will have long-term value.

And gradually, from the first books, he accumulated a valuable collection that he felt more and more wanted to share with everyone. That is why he decided to build an architectural library - a space that contains not only books, but also the belief in the power of knowledge and sharing.

His passion has also inspired many others to come and donate to the library rare books on architecture and art, unique projects that "cannot be bought with money".

To date, his library has more than 4,000 books and magazines. A simple habit from his student days has become the driving force behind his creation of an architectural library, a place that contains valuable knowledge, and above all, a love for the profession that he always wants to share with the next generation.

Projects that connect and spread the mission for the community

As an architectural and art library, CA' not only preserves valuable documents but is also a place for architect Nguyen Cong Hiep and his colleagues to organize many interesting activities. He regularly organizes professional sharing sessions on architecture and arteducation , giving the community the opportunity to participate in seminars, talks; exhibitions and in-depth workshops or charity fundraising campaigns.

CA's event "3 ROOMS IN COVID-19 SEASON" attracted a large number of participants . Photo: NVCC

In addition to major events, the library also maintains regular activities such as screening documentaries on architecture, art and movies with themes related to creativity, design and interiors. These programs not only enhance understanding but also inspire passion and creativity for those who love and want to learn more about art and architecture.

At the end of 2024, within the framework of the Hanoi Creative Design Festival, architect Nguyen Cong Hiep and his colleagues from CA' Library attracted a lot of attention from visitors with the design of the Pavilion "Dragon and Snake in the Clouds". The contemporary elements of the design were harmoniously combined "like a dialogue" with the unique architectural campus of the Vietnam National Museum of History.

“For me, this was a difficult task but also an unforgettable creative experience, a very interesting opportunity. I can’t always approach a topic like this,” Hiep said.

Currently, he and his colleagues are constantly researching and innovating to create more unique open design projects such as “Rong snake len may”. In addition, other activities such as translating research books are also dedicated and made efforts by him to bring value to the community.

Nguyen Cong Hiep believes that every creative person in this industry has their own mission, and it is important to always listen and understand the purpose of the work they are doing. “Each person will have different missions. Some people will seek a way to understand themselves, some will devote themselves to their families, but some will choose to serve the community through works and projects. Do your job well, whether it is in big projects or small designs, because your contributions can create big changes,” he added.

Architect Nguyen Cong Hiep’s tireless efforts in connecting the community and sharing knowledge have created lasting values. Every project, big or small, demonstrates his passion and mission in building a connecting space, where knowledge and creativity are spread, reaching the souls who love art and architecture.

THANH THAO