Ho Chi Minh CITY, Viet Nam
International Innovation Inspires Building Standards in Viet Nam
25 stories certified with LEED platinum
Inhabitants 8.99 million GDP per capita $6,862 Geographic area 2,061 km²
THE CHALLENGE Ho Chi Minh City’s rapid urban growth has been a driver of increased energy consumption and GHG emissions. Buildings play an important role, with an estimated 30% of final energy consumption attributed to buildings in 2015.
The Deutsches Haus in Ho Chi Minh City is a flagship green building in Viet Nam. The 25-floor, high-rise building combines German design and technology with local culture to cut emissions and promote international collaboration. Opened in 2017, Deutsches Haus, or “the German House,” is a 25-story building complex in Ho Chi Minh City that follows some of the highest environmental standards available, showcasing how technology and architectural design can create more sustainable high-rise buildings in urban metropoles. Several construction choices were instrumental in earning the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Platinum certification, one of the most prestigious building certifications available and the first building in Viet Nam to receive it. Features include LED lights, hospital-grade air filtration systems, localized temperature control, and rooftop solar panels. Rainwater harvesting is in place, together with a greywater flushing system, and wastewater for cooling. A double-layer exterior made from glass enhances natural air flow and insulation, helping keep the building interior cool in the midst of the hot and humid climate, while reducing the need for CO₂-intensive air conditioning.
Co-benefits Economic The building utilizes energy and water-saving strategies, meaning lower utility consumption and bills.
The Deutsches Haus in Ho Chi Minh City. German Chancellor Angela Merkel has described the structure as an "important symbol" of further collaboration between Germany and Viet Nam (photo by Kien Vu).
Environmental The Deutsches Haus reduces water and energy consumption through design features that meet high building certification standards.
108 100 CLIMATE ACTIONS FROM CITIES IN ASIA AND THE PACIFIC
