Vietnam's urban planning ideas drive development forward
The winning projects of the 4th National Urban Planning Award offer creative planning ideas and solutions that aim to provide good living spaces for communities while preserving traditional values and protecting the natural environment.
THE HANOI TIMES — The 4th National Urban Planning Award (VUPA 2024) remains a platform for showcasing exceptional planning projects that drive long-term development, embracing flexible thinking and community participation.
Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha made this statement at the VUPA 2024 awards ceremony, held in Hanoi on July 22.
"Urban planning is an art form, the scientific organization of balanced development, a bridge between past and future, humans and nature. It is the foundation for optimizing resources and enhancing the value of both nature and humanity,” said Ha.
Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha delivers a speech at the VUPA 2024 awards ceremony. Photos: Lai Tan/The Hanoi Times
“This year’s entries focus on green and sustainable plans development, with smart cities that integrate technology and humanity, place people at the center, and respect cultural identity,” he said. “It’s a vivid reflection of the talent, passion, and social concerns of today’s architects and planners.”
He hoped that green and sustainable development thinking, as well as the circular economy, would become consistent core principles in urban planning.
Tran Ngoc Chinh, Chairman of the National Urban Planning Award Council, said that the award aims to recognize achievements in urban planning, urban development management, and rural residential area planning. Awards are given for initiatives in areas such as smart city development, urban design, and sustainable rural residential areas. Moreover, the award encourages innovation in architectural design and sustainable practices.
"As the most prestigious official architecture award in Vietnam, the VUPA plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable and smart urban development, recognizing and encouraging excellence in the field," said Chinh.
Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha presents two projects with special prizes at the 2024 Vietnam Urban Planning Awards.
The highlight of VUPA 2024 was the innovative approach, from the development strategy to organizing harmonious and unique living spaces. “Many projects have achieved a high level of academic and practical value, demonstrating modern planning ideas for green, smart, sustainable urban areas that can adapt to climate change,” said Chinh.
VUPA 2024 welcomed more than 100 entries from over 40 organizations, individuals, and businesses nationwide, spanning six categories: Construction Planning Projects; Areas that have been Invested in and Built; Publications on Construction Planning; Organisations and Individuals Engaged in Excellent Urban Development Management; Urban Environmental Quality; and Rural Planning.
Following the assessment and ranking rounds, a panel of prestigious experts in planning, architecture, the economy, culture, the arts, and the environment agreed on the number of prizes to be awarded, including two special prizes, 26 gold prizes, 30 silver prizes, 15 bronze prizes, one consolation prize, and one prize for an excellent enterprise.
The VUPA is a nationwide award held biennially since 2018 and established by the Vietnam Urban Planning and Development Association to promote the importance of construction planning and urban development management.
The award also honors organizations, individuals, and businesses that have made outstanding contributions to planning, urban development, and rural residential areas in Vietnam.
