Renovation plan adds new value to Hoan Kiem Lake

THE HANOI TIMES — The renovation of the Hoan Kiem Lake area is expected to enhance its value, meet public aspirations, and serve as a catalyst for Hanoi's economic and tourism development.

Provide much-needed respite

Hanoi is moving forward with plans to renovate the area around Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square and the eastern shore of Hoan Kiem Lake, which is expected to transform the eastern lakefront into a public square and park while preserving valuable architectural landmarks and historical sites.

The renovation of Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square includes demolishing the "Shark Jaw" building, reconfiguring the square's layout, and exploiting the potential of underground spaces.

According to Dr. Phan Dang Son, President of the Vietnam Association of Architects, Hoan Kiem Lake has seen numerous additions since the French colonial era, resulting in a fragmented and increasingly constrained urban space.

"As Vietnam undergoes significant transformation, Hanoi must also embrace change. Implementing the recently approved adjustments to the city's master plan, including the redevelopment of the Hoan Kiem area, is timely and necessary. In this regard, the removal of the Shark Jaw building at this stage is appropriate and should be pursued vigorously," Son said.

Son also highlighted Hanoi's recent efforts to unlock the potential of the Red River's midstream islands and floodplain to create a green ecological corridor. Expanding the eastern side of Hoan Kiem Lake would improve connectivity with existing public spaces such as Toad Park and other historical landmarks while extending toward the Red River. This, he argues, presents a great opportunity to create a truly valuable and dynamic urban space around the lake.

Dr. Pham Anh Tuan, President of the Vietnam Association of Landscape Architects and Head of the Department of Landscape Architecture at Hanoi University of Civil Engineering, agreed that the expansion of the area will provide "much-needed respite and enhance the public experience around Hoan Kiem Lake."

Regarding Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square, Tuan pointed out that it is currently too small for major cultural and creative activities and is unable to host important events.

"Expanding the square-especially by integrating it with Dinh Liet Street would open up new pedestrian corridors, increase the vibrancy of the area, and enhance its significance within the broader Hoan Kiem Lake landscape," Tuan said.

Cautious and comprehensive approach required

Dr. Pham Anh Tuan stated that the expansion of the Sword Lake area must take a regional approach rather than being limited to the immediate surroundings.

He argued that the plan should extend to adjacent green spaces, public areas, and key landmarks to ensure seamless connectivity, preserve cultural heritage, and support the broader urban ecosystem. Given the fragmented nature of Hanoi's urban development over the years, he sees this expansion as an opportunity to restore continuity and improve the city's overall spatial planning.

As Hanoi's downtown lacks large public spaces, the effective expansion of such areas will be a key priority.

"Any redevelopment must be based on thorough research and meticulous surveys to assess the architectural and landscape elements worth preserving," said Tuan.

He cautioned against the indiscriminate demolition and reconstruction of structures without sound justification, advocating instead a balanced approach that preserves architectural and artistic values while allowing for historical continuity and modernization.

“The proposed solutions should prioritize ecological considerations by minimizing concrete construction to improve the microclimate and ensure sustainable development. The plan should also account for public amenities such as shaded rest areas, pergolas, and restrooms to accommodate large gatherings,” he continued.

Tuan urged Hanoi to seek experienced and specialized investors to ensure the project's feasibility. He also emphasized the importance of consulting experts from various fields to develop a design strategy that meets the city's long-term urban development goals and public expectations.

Echoing this perspective, Dr. Phan Dang Son of the Vietnam Association of Architects called for a comprehensive assessment of the entire Hoan Kiem Lake area and advocated for a master plan that fully integrates the area's architectural and landscape heritage.

"This is a rare opportunity to enhance the historical and cultural significance of Hanoi," Son said, noting that it requires a flexible and forward-looking design to anticipate evolving needs while avoiding frequent disruptions and repeated renovations.

"As the agency responsible for developing the master plan along with an independent urban design framework to guide the investment project for Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square, the district aims to maximize the square's spatial expansion. This approach seeks to strengthen the connection between two critical areas: Hoan Kiem Lake, a special national heritage site, and Hanoi's Old Quarter, a national heritage site. Currently, the district has assigned local authorities to work with the Hoan Kiem Lake and Old Quarter Management Board to publicly display the 1:500 scale master plan for the redevelopment of the square. Feedback from different elements of society will be acted upon in accordance with legal regulations. In the near future, further research and implementation efforts will be extended to the eastern area where Vietnam Electricity-related facilities and the headquarters of the Department of Culture and Sports are located, and the western part of the lake." Chairman of the Hoan Kiem District People’s Committee Pham Tuan Long

"To minimize the impact on the Hoan Kiem Lake area, Hanoi has strictly limited construction around this historic site. The city has also maximized efforts to upgrade sidewalks, improve landscaping, enhance lakefront walkways, and clean the water surface. However, the growing number of visitors and residents in the area has led to an ongoing shortage of space for essential services. As a result, the city's current efforts to renovate and expand the area are timely and necessary. In recent years, Hanoi has continued to expand pedestrian areas around the lake, including parts of the Old Quarter, surrounding streets, and even beyond. However, these expansions have not met the public's demand for open space. To address this, the city must repurpose certain public lands, relocate government offices and agencies, and reclaim private and commercial property to create a more appropriate urban landscape around Hoan Kiem Lake." Director of Hanoi Planning and Architecture Center Le Hoang Phuong