OMA

YEN LAC BINH XUYEN (YLBX) . VIETNAM

OMA

Vietnam's urban development follows the unstated convention of strict zoning plans based on the development of the transportation network.

Convention overrides experimentation - network is understood in the physical sense and the influence of virtual networks is undermined. Located along the planned expressway between the sea port and China, at the southern tip of the 2030 Vinh Phuc Masterplan, Yen Lac Binh Xuyen (YLBX) is a new type of masterplan based on both physical and virtual networks: a masterplan that strengthens the existing road network and the connection with history, while at the same time responding to the hybridized programs generated by evolving technologies.

Networks are now free from the constraints of proximity and physical interaction. In YLBX, neighborhoods are not dictated by strict functional zoning. Hybrid programs become the norm, contributing to a diversified and ambiguous cityscape.
YLBX is characterized by an interactive city core, the Central Interface, with a variety of programs, featured landscape and waterscape. Originally separated by a huge retention lake, the two urban domains of Yen Lac and Binh Xuyen are reconnected by the Central Interface. Culture, entertainment, commerce, housing, and public spaces generate the required density. With diverse land and water features, urban mass and nature, the Central Interface will attract tourists seeking culture and water sports; the entertainment zone is focused on local residents and serves as the retreat for office workers. A new network for interaction is triggered, attracting a critical mass to jumpstart the city.
The surrounding domains expand linearly along the existing road network, reinforced with a new grid network layered to increase the density and functionality of each zone. Formal development based on the newly imposed grid network, and informal development based on traditional linear roadside development, are organized in collaborative systems. The two networks together form intersections between the existing villages and the new developments.
Four surrounding domains with their own networks are proposed: in the Garden Network the community life is organized around central green fields; the Grid Network includes an abundance of residential and civic areas; the North and South Lake are low-density luxurious living areas. Based on the distinctive network of each domain, intensification is proposed to enlarge each system and provide a new basis from which to start further development.
A Spark Constellation, a dispersed organization with strong anchors of identity, is the foundation for YLBX's program layout. Programs are distributed based on the identity (water, land, urban and rural landscape) of the different domains. The densest program is situated around the Central Interface, supported by a boulevard from the north and three main roads connecting from the Garden Network. Aside from the residential and commercial programs based on the overall 2030 Vinh Phuc Masterplan, YLBX has programs that enhance tourism, research and development, and healthcare, distinguishing itself from the rest of the region. YLBX is a masterplan as a network for the future: drawing people and lives together without tying them down.

Partner-in-charge: David Gianotten
Project Architect: Inge Goudsmit
Team: Bauke Albada, Matthew Austin, Viviano Villarreal Buerón, Chee Yuen Choy, Arthas Qian, Jue Qiu, Rebecca Wang, Byungchan Anh, Yannis Chan
COLLABORATORS
Animation and renderings: Loomonthemoon.com