Atap DesignVoyage Hosts its First Overseas Field Trip In Saigon

Atap.co proudly hosted its second instalment of Atap DesignVoyage from 10th to 13th July 2024 in the vibrant city of Saigon, Vietnam. 

As the program’s first-ever international trip, this successful journey brought together over 10 Atap Elite Club (AEC) members, accompanied by representatives from selected brand partners to immerse in the rich landscape of Vietnamese architecture and design while fostering valuable connections and collaboration. 

This exciting adventure comes after the successful inaugural field trip back in April 2024 where designers and architects experienced a day of exploration with industry leaders within the Klang Valley. This time, Atap.co partnered with leading Vietnamese design firms featuring MIA Design Studio, me+ architect, and renowned international brands such as GESSI and JUNG, making the Atap DesignVoyage Saigon trip extra special. 

As participants checked into Mai House Saigon Hotel on the first day, the program started with a welcome dinner at Madame Lam Restaurant where they mingled and reconnected with industry friends.

On Day 2, the real design discovery began with a visit to the award-winning MIA Design Studio. Specialising in hospitality and residential projects, the firm is led by Founder Mr. Nguyen Hoang Manh who welcomed the group with an insightful presentation of the firm. Greatly inspired by Tadao Ando, a Japanese architect known for his revolutionary minimalist designs, Mr. Manh’s influences were apparent in many of the firm’s projects, including its minimalist biophilic studio which participants enjoyed an exclusive tour of. 

Later in the day, designers and professionals enjoyed an insightful tea time with GESSI Vietnam at Anh Coffee Roastery. Here, Helen Nguyen, Sales & Project Manager, and Pham Le Huy, Product Sale Director, shared about the luxury Italian brand known for high-quality bathroom and kitchen fittings. Participants also engaged with GESSI’s high-end faucets and material swatches, learning more about the brand’s innovative designs and craftsmanship. Wrapping up the day, the GESSI team extended their hospitality with a city walk in the vibrant heritage-filled District 1. 

The voyage continued on Day 3 with an in-depth exploration of Vietnam’s first JUNG Showroom. Specialising in high-end electrical equipment and smart home systems, designers and professionals delved into the German brand with Danny Nguyen, JUNG Vietnam Business Manager, and Chua Kian Lin, General Manager of JUNG Asia. After experiencing the latest collection to immersing in their thoughtfully designed spaces, the JUNG team hosted a delightful lunch, providing a platform to further connect with the international brand.

Later that evening, the designers and professionals visited The Veil Convention Centre, also known as the White Palace in Pham Van Dong. Here they met with Mr. Toan, Founder of me+ architect, and his team who designed the space. Bringing the group on a guided tour, they shared how they were inspired by a bride’s wedding veil to create a soft and airy frame for the main ballroom. Inside, the large round windows maintained a bright and floaty atmosphere, distinguishing it from other convention centers.

As the day drew to a close, the group headed to Clay Saigon, an elegant venue overlooking the Saigon River, for dinner. This picturesque setting provided the perfect opportunity for everyone to share their memorable experiences with one another, forging even stronger bonds at the end of the trip. 

Atap.co is immensely grateful to our esteemed partners: MIA Design Studio, me+ architect, GESSI, and JUNG for making the first Atap DesignVoyage international field trip a huge success. Not only did it offer AEC members and industry professionals a blend of architectural exploration and cultural experiences, but valuable insights and long-lasting connections within the industry as well. 

Are you a Designer? Interested to be a part of the next Atap DesignVoyage? Look out for updates on our local field trip happening this September and International field trip next year!

Are you a Brand Partner? If you are interested to sponsor or travel with Atap Elite Club, get in touch with us here.