Phu Quoc – the pearl island in the middle of the ocean, where nature paints a magnificent picture with the endless blue of the sky, the sea, and the rows of tropical trees rustling in the wind. There, there is a building standing tall in the blue sky, not bearing the splendor of high-rise glass buildings, nor wearing flashy paint, but simply, plainly with bamboo trunks reaching up proudly.
Klook.comBamboo works in Phu Quoc – a masterpiece of human hands, where bamboo is no longer just a humble tree growing along the village ramparts but has transformed into a symbol of art and sustainable architecture. In the middle of the windy wilderness, where the sound of waves blends with the breath of the earth and sky, the work appears like a melodious melody, a mark of the intersection between nature and man, between tradition and modernity.
- Bamboo – The Soul of the Project
Bamboo – a plant that has been in Vietnamese poetry, history, and culture for generations. If wood carries the contemplation of time, stone carries the strength of the mountains and forests, then bamboo is a symbol of resilience, softness, but not submissiveness.
Bamboo structures in Phu Quoc are built entirely from this traditional material, but with a completely new dimension. No longer the simple roofs of Vietnamese villages, bamboo structures here are shaped in soft curves, blending with nature in a sophisticated way.
Under the talented hands of the architects, each bamboo stalk is carefully selected and processed to ensure durability over time and harsh climate conditions. The small bamboo sticks, when standing alone, may be fragile, but when joined together using traditional techniques and modern creativity, they become a sturdy, proud structure.
The curved dome and the soaring pillars are a perfect combination of form and space, of material and light. When entering the building, we no longer feel like we are simply in a shelter, but rather like we are lost in a lush bamboo forest, where everything is in harmony with nature.
(Exterior image of Phu Quoc bamboo project)
2. The breath of the sea and the beat of bamboo
If there is one thing that is most special about Phu Quoc bamboo construction, it is the perfect harmony with nature. The open space with high bamboo arches helps to maximize sunlight, creating interwoven light and dark patches like artistic strokes.
During the day, sunlight filters through the gaps between the bamboo, drawing dancing shadows on the floor, making the space come alive without any artificial decoration. When the afternoon falls, the sunset gilds each bamboo stalk, turning this place into a magical picture in the heart of nature.
And when night falls, the gentle light shines on the bamboo pillars, creating a space that is both fairy-tale and mysterious, where we can feel every breath of the sea, every beat of the earth and sky. The sea breeze rushes in, through every gap, carrying the scent of the ocean, of the forest, of pristine nature.
(The bamboo structure is sparkling at night)
(Inside Phu Quoc bamboo project)
3. The meaning of bamboo works transcends all time
The bamboo structure in Phu Quoc is not just an architectural work, but also carries a profound message about sustainable development. In an era where people are increasingly alienated from nature, this place is a reminder that we can live, build, and develop while still respecting and protecting the environment.
Bamboo – a renewable, eco-friendly material, but with timeless strength. When combined with modern art and construction techniques, bamboo is no longer just a symbol of the past, but has become a material of the future.
This project is also a tribute to the hands of Vietnamese artisans who know how to turn simple bamboo into an architectural masterpiece, both familiar and majestic. This is not only a destination for tourists, but also a symbol of Vietnamese intelligence and soul, a testament that when people know how to appreciate nature, nature will respond with miracles.
Amidst a vibrant, modern Phu Quoc with luxurious resorts and lavish hotels, the bamboo structure still stands there, as a gentle yet charismatic touch. It is not the work of a generation, but a heritage for those who love nature and appreciate the beauty of the purest things.
When leaving this place, we not only bring beautiful pictures, but also a part of nature in our soul. It can be the gentle feeling when quietly watching the sunlight through the bamboo canopy, or the vibration when touching the rustic but vibrant bamboo stalks.
No matter how much time passes, no matter how many other structures are built, Phu Quoc bamboo structures will still be a symbol of longevity, a harmony of architecture and nature, a green dream in the middle of the ocean.
4. The father of Bamboo Legend and the story of creating the symbol of Phu Quoc North Island
Before Bamboo Legend was built, architect Vo Trong Nghia had considered projects using 30.000 bamboo trees to be "enormous." However, when constructing the bamboo house at Phu Quoc United Center, that number was spectacularly surpassed. To realize his innovative and unique idea, he had to use 42.000 bamboo trees , setting a new milestone in the world of bamboo architecture.
All the bamboo used in Bamboo Legend is * Tam Vong * – a type of bamboo famous in the southeastern provinces of Vietnam for its straight trunk, long internodes, solid core, high durability, and superior load-bearing capacity compared to other types of bamboo. Not all *Tam Vong* trees meet the standards for this project. Only trees that are 4-5 years old , reaching a height of 6-7m and a diameter of 3-5cm are carefully selected.
After harvesting, bamboo is not used immediately but must undergo an elaborate processing procedure to ensure durability and resistance to insect infestation. First, the roots and tips of the bamboo are removed, then it is soaked in mud for 6 months . This is a long-standing natural preservation method that helps remove sugars and odors from the bamboo stalk, prevents insect damage, and enhances its flexibility.
After soaking in mud, the bamboo is then smoked in a kiln for three weeks . This process not only dries the bamboo and removes any unpleasant odors but also gives it a distinctive smoky color – both aesthetically pleasing and a natural protective layer against corrosion over time. Architect Vo Trong Nghia likened this smoky color to a "rust-proof paint" on green steel – symbolizing the bamboo's resilience against time and environmental impacts.
One of the most impressive aspects of Bamboo Legend is its construction method, which uses absolutely no nails, screws, or steel . Instead, the bamboo stalks are connected using 30-40cm long bamboo pegs that run through the stalks for a secure grip. Additionally, the joints are reinforced with ultra-durable , specially woven parachute cord to ensure a load-bearing capacity of up to hundreds of kilograms . If the bamboo pegs act as the "backbone" connecting the entire structure, the parachute cord is the "muscle," keeping the structure stable against the elements. Notably, all the bamboo pegs are hand-shaped , preserving the innermost layer of the bamboo stalk – maximizing its strength and durability. In total, Bamboo Legend uses tens of thousands of bamboo pegs , contributing to the creation of a timeless ecological architectural masterpiece.
Besides its sturdy structure, the roof of the building is also specially designed to suit the coastal climate of Phu Quoc. Instead of using palm leaves like traditional bamboo structures, the roof of Bamboo Legend is woven from *vọc* – a type of fern mainly found in the northern mountainous provinces. Compared to palm leaves, *vọc* has a higher aesthetic appeal, suitable for high-class architectural projects, and also boasts superior durability , preventing rainwater from accumulating, thus extending the lifespan of the bamboo roof.
With the perfect combination of nature and sophisticated craftsmanship, Bamboo Legend is not only the largest bamboo architectural work in Vietnam, but also a symbol of sustainable living, where traditional materials are elevated to the pinnacle of art. This is not only a highlight of Phu Quoc United Center, but also a strong mark affirming Vietnam's position on the world green architecture map.
As one of five impressive records within the Phu Quoc United Center mega-complex , Bamboo Legend is not only the largest bamboo structure in Vietnam but also a unique symbol of sustainable green architecture. Launched in April this year, Phu Quoc United Center spans over 1.000 hectares , bringing together thousands of entertainment, leisure, relaxation, and shopping facilities operating 24/7 , offering endless experiences for visitors.
Built as Vietnam's first "city that never sleeps," Phu Quoc United Center is expected to transform Phu Quoc Island into a "new international destination" in Asia. With its remarkable growth in scale and services, it promises to rival world-class entertainment centers such as Jeju (South Korea), Clarke Quay (Singapore), and Las Vegas (USA) , elevating Phu Quoc to a global tourism icon.
POEM: BAMBOO SOUL IN THE OCEAN
Green bamboo stands high in the sky,
Embrace the sea breeze whispering poetry.
Stretch yourself without fear of the waves,
Soft yet firm, full of spring colors.
The afternoon light gently touches the body,
Bamboo like jade, gradually turns into clouds.
The curved figure appears and disappears in a dreamy way,
The countryside blends in with the gentle sky and clouds.
Come here to quietly watch time,
Listen to bamboo tell stories of thousands of years of heaven and earth.
One work - one soul,
Forever with the blue sea of love.