THE ORIGIN OF THE STORY:
THANG GING
There are 54 ethnic groups that have diverse forms of architectural development for homes. In many of these ethnic groups, the kitchen space is considered the center or soul of the house in their traditional architecture. The Chăm people's traditional architecture follows this pattern as well. Their kitchen space is called "Shang Ging" in the Chăm language and it is the theme that the author's group aims to explore in the kitchen space design competition this year.
Let's take a moment to understand the cultural features of the Chăm people before exploring the design details. The Chăm people are well-known for their iconic tower structures with pointed arches and distinctive red brick, which are frequently associated with many of their heritage sites. They also use ornate details such as Linga and Yoni as symbols of growth and development in their ancient culture. Additionally, their characteristic pottery and terracotta craftsmanship also hold significant cultural features. These cultural features inspired the author's group to create a kitchen space for the Chăm people in modern life.
The group's design features a small kitchen in a townhouse, which represents a common kitchen space for contemporary Vietnamese households. The kitchen island is at the center of this space, drawing inspiration from the symbolism of Linga and Yoni in Chăm culture, representing growth and development. The island is stylized with the gentle and flowing imagery of Yoni or the pottery products being crafted by artisans. There is also a movable dining table to ensure ample space for the household. Above, a hood is designed in black, featuring sharp lines reminiscent of the strength of the Linga. The kitchen island hosts a stove with three cooking zones from Panasonic, while the dining table ensures versatility for hosting gatherings or traditional Chăm ceremonies.
Surrounding the kitchen island are equally important supporting elements such as display shelves, cabinets, kitchen shelves, and a refrigerator. The refrigerator placement is inspired by the Chăm towers, guiding users into an abstract space within the Chăm cultural context. Additionally, the formation of kitchen cabinet doors cleverly incorporates terracotta patterns through wall sculptures and, notably, the glass doors with terracotta patterns in the middle. On the kitchen's I-shaped side, electrical appliances such as a water purifier, auxiliary stove with hood, oven, and microwave are arranged, ensuring a modern kitchen's needs with Panasonic appliances. The specially designed shelf with glass and wood, accentuated with directional lights, allows the homeowners to display traditional ceramic products.
When it comes to interior design, the choice of materials is of utmost importance. The Chăm people's architecture prominently features the color of raw terracotta tiles, making it the predominant color palette. Additionally, shades of copper, bronze, and black - colors that represent the nobility of the ancient Chăm ethnic group - are extensively incorporated. Ebony wood or black is used as an accent color. The colors of the interior space are reflected in the materials of electrical appliances, particularly the refrigerator door, creating a harmonious overall color scheme.
Through this approach, the author's group has created a unique space that preserves cultural heritage while introducing modernity through a fully equipped kitchen for the competition. Ultimately, the goal is to bring people closer to their cultural heritage and encourage its development in the technological age.
