Welcome to Hằng Nga guesthouse, also known as the "Crazy House" in Đà Lạt, Vietnam. Designed by Vietnamese architect Đặng Việt Nga, this unconventional building stands as a testament to creativity and imagination.
Design
Inspired by the natural surroundings of Đà Lạt and the work of renowned Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí, Hằng Nga guesthouse resembles a giant tree. Its architecture incorporates sculptured design elements that mimic animals, mushrooms, spider webs, and caves. The building's complex, organic shapes have been described as expressionist, drawing comparisons to the works of Salvador Dalí and Walt Disney. Since its opening in 1990, Hằng Nga guesthouse has gained worldwide recognition for its unique and bizarre architecture.
Architecture
The guesthouse's architecture is far from conventional. Rather than relying on standard blueprints, architect Đặng Việt Nga creates paintings that serve as the basis for the building's structural elements. The absence of right angles throughout the guesthouse gives it a whimsical and organic feel. With its unevenly shaped window openings and branch-like structures, the exterior of the building resembles a five-story-high banyan tree. The design is truly a work of art, with the People's Committee of Đà Lạt describing it as "expressionist."
Interior Design
Step inside Hằng Nga guesthouse and be captivated by its ten themed guest rooms. Each room takes on an animal theme, such as the tiger room, eagle room, ant room, and kangaroo room. These themes are complemented by carefully crafted decorations that match each room's theme. But it doesn't stop there – each room also carries symbolism connected to a specific nationality. The attention to detail extends to the furniture, which is handcrafted and seamlessly integrated into the rooms' nonlinear, organic shapes. Stone decorations throughout the guesthouse depict various animals and natural elements, creating a truly immersive experience.
Tourism Use
To support her personal project, architect Đặng Việt Nga decided to open the guesthouse to the public in 1990. For a small fee, visitors can explore the unique interiors of Hằng Nga guesthouse and marvel at its unconventional design. The guesthouse also offers accommodation, with room rates ranging from VND 290,000 to 630,000 per night for Vietnamese guests, and from $29 to $63 for foreigners.
Reception
Opinions about Hằng Nga guesthouse's architecture are polarizing. Some criticize its unconventional design, while others admire the boldness and creativity it embodies. Early visitors affectionately dubbed it the "Crazy House," a name that architect Đặng Việt Nga herself embraced. Many visitors find themselves transported back to their childhoods, experiencing a sense of wonder and nostalgia. Despite initial opposition from local authorities, the guesthouse has garnered praise and recognition, with travel guidebooks listing it as an interesting and must-visit destination. In 2009, the Chinese People's Daily even included Hằng Nga guesthouse in its list of the world's ten most "bizarre" buildings.
Come and experience the magic of Hằng Nga guesthouse in Đà Lạt. Let your imagination run wild as you explore this whimsical fairy tale come to life.
See also
- List of bizarre buildings
Note: This article is a creative adaptation of the original content to provide a fresh perspective while retaining the core message.