Memories of Hanoi through architectural heritage of the subsidy period

On the afternoon of October 11, in Hanoi, a discussion took place on "Hanoi during the subsidy period: Memories through architectural heritage" with the participation of many speakers in the fields of architecture and culture.

According to experts, Hanoi is one of the few cities in the world that still retains many architectural works from the early period of building socialism, also known as the subsidy period. These works are associated with the difficult but also optimistic life of Hanoi residents.

Speakers shared at the seminar. Photo: Thu Huyen

Although it has faded over time, surprisingly in Hanoi there still exists a dense network of architectural works reflecting the desire to build a new model of society, extremely diverse and rich.

According to Architect Vu Hiep, the architectural works of the period 1954-1986 reflect a new era of the country, with modern, progressive shaping principles, of historical, scientific, social and economic value.

Mr. Hiep emphasized that while the architectural heritage of the feudal and French colonial periods is present in Hanoi's branding strategy, the architecture of the 1954 - 1986 period has not been exploited.

Currently, we still lack a strategy to preserve and promote the heritage of the period of socialist construction in Hanoi. The consequence of that is that even for those who are living in Hanoi, the heritage of the socialist period is still in a "blurred spot".

Sharing the same view, Dr. Architect Tran Thanh Binh also said that practicality, sustainability, economy and aesthetics are the building principles of the subsidy period, even though they were created in a difficult period, surrounded by embargoes.

As a witness to all the changes in Vietnamese society during the subsidy period, former Director of the Museum of Ethnology, Associate Professor, Dr. Nguyen Van Huy told stories about the dreams and aspirations of architects when designing and constructing buildings and constructions at that time.

Referring to the story of private space and the "kitchen, toilet, and bathroom revolution" of architect Truong Tung, Mr. Huy emphasized that, despite unfavorable conditions, Vietnamese architects still persevere, pursuing the aspiration to build the best works and bring value to society.

It is known that the issue of preserving architectural heritage from the subsidy period will continue to be discussed in a discussion held on November 15, within the framework of the 2024 Design Festival.

Thu Huyen

Source: https://www.congluan.vn/ky-uc-ha-noi-qua-di-san-kien-truc-thoi-bao-cap-post316464.html