Coco House / Duy Le Architects

Architects: Duy Le Architects
Area: 142 m²
Year: 2021
Photography: Trieu Chien
Lead Architect: Lê Trọng Duy
Client: Lê Công Đức
City: Sóc Trăng
Country: Vietnam

Coco House, a mixed-use building designed by Duy Le Architects in Sóc Trăng, Vietnam, has transformed the spatial experience through innovative design techniques inspired by the animated film “Coco.” Completed in 2021, the project combines residential and business spaces, addressing the owner’s hobbies and daily needs while maintaining a minimalist aesthetic.

The design of Coco House draws inspiration from Pixar’s 2016 film “Coco,” focusing on themes of family and connection across different worlds. The architect aimed to create a space that bridges reality and virtuality using glass materials to produce duplicating illusions, giving a sense of spaciousness to the narrow 4.6-meter-wide house. Reflected elements, such as window arches on the second floor, complete their patterns in mirrors, enhancing the perception of space.

The client desired a large area for planting and a Koi fish hobby, within a minimalistic and spacious style. The design includes relaxation areas, clinical service spaces, and integrates a fishpond and garden into the co-living space. The fishpond provides both a visual element and a means to adjust the microclimate.

The design features glass bricks that mimic wave patterns, referencing the Western water region of Vietnam and enhancing the façade’s aesthetic. These bricks ensure privacy and natural lighting. Ventilation bricks protect from rain and facilitate air circulation, thoughtfully arranged for aesthetics and function. The living room and kitchen are unified through “space-lending,” allowing expansion for dining occasions.

The house includes five gardens that serve as noise suppressors and dust preventers. Marble pebbles on the glass roof regulate light, reflecting it across the living space to create a luminous effect suitable for daily activities.