Nha Rong Wharf - Saigon Port and land plot No. 1 Ly Thai To

06 - 11 - 2025

Humanistic planning thinking for public spaces in Ho Chi Minh City: Nha Rong Wharf - Saigon Port and Memorial Site No. 1 Ly Thai To

The decision to choose the park function and memorial space for the Ben Nha Rong - Saigon Port strip and the 4.4-hectare land at 1 Ly Thai To demonstrates a scientific, humane and sustainable planning vision of Ho Chi Minh City. In the context of strong urbanization, this orientation not only preserves the living environment but also preserves historical memories and creates a unique identity for a modern city.

Although the "commercial value" of the central golden lands is very large, there is no measure that can be put on the scale to compare with the spiritual, health and quality of life benefits that green spaces bring to the community

Looking out to the world, leading cities such as Paris, Singapore, Shanghai, Sydney or New York all prove that:

Investing in public spaces is investing in the future and brand of the city.

Squares, parks, riverside space axes - all contribute to creating the quality of life that every city strives for.

Ly Thai To Park No. 1 – the precious “lung” of the central area

Ly Thai To Land No. 1, located at the intersection of wards with high population density, possesses the potential to become a green space of special significance. In the context of a cramped urban area, every square meter of green space is valuable in regulating the climate, regenerating energy and creating a relaxing space for people.

Continuing to maintain the function of a green park and minimizing items with business elements is a correct orientation. This space should prioritize free community facilities: exercise area, children's playground, small square, outdoor cultural space... to truly become a park for the people.

Preserving 13 old villas – keeping memories to move towards the future

The proposal to preserve 13 old villas in the campus is a worthy choice. Preserving works with architectural – cultural – historical values ​​will help the park space become a “memory map” of the city.

These works can be renovated into:
- Art gallery,
- Exhibition center,
- Workshop space – community activities,
- Model of telling the story of the urban history of Saigon – Ho Chi Minh City.

Many parks in the world are formed from architectural heritages and become highlights of the city. That shows that conservation and development can go hand in hand.

Covid-19 Memorial Space – A Symbol of Kindness

The idea of ​​a memorial space for Covid-19 victims needs to be expressed delicately and with emotional depth. This does not need to be a grandiose project, but should be a landscape highlight – a place where people seek tranquility, contemplation and gratitude.

An artistic symbol, a special green space, or an outdoor exhibition path can all tell the story of solidarity, kindness and the will to overcome difficulties of the people of Ho Chi Minh City. This is also the humane identity of the city named after Uncle Ho.

Green space – the foundation for sustainable development

The park space at Ben Nha Rong – Saigon Port and the memorial area No. 1 Ly Thai To is a symbol of a modern, people-centered planning mindset. Organizing a design competition is necessary to ensure the aesthetics, symbolic value and community significance of the entire project.

The most important thing is that every implementation step needs to be carried out carefully, scientifically and creatively, avoiding hasty decisions. When carefully prepared, this space will become an emotional touchpoint – a place to preserve the memories, spirit and pride of the city today and tomorrow.

Preserving and developing green spaces such as Ben Nha Rong – Saigon Port and the memorial area No. 1 Ly Thai To is not only a correct planning decision, but also an affirmation of the humanistic vision of Ho Chi Minh City. As the city grows with parks, memories and communities, it is also building a sustainable foundation for future generations – a harmonious, livable and proud future.

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