Da Nang’s public works become architectural highlights and tourist attractions
DNO - In Da Nang, public works are not only simply places serving administrative functions or community activities, they become cultural landmarks that define the city’s identity when properly invested in architectural design.
Architecture inspired by the sea
Many first-time visitors to Da Nang are surprised by the Son Tra Art Exhibition Center on Vu Van Dung Street. Built at a cost of nearly VND 20 billion and covering an area of 750 square meters, the project was completed in 2025 and has quickly emerged as a notable architectural highlight of the city.
What leaves the strongest first impression is the architectural language of the building. The entire design is inspired by the image of a seagull's wings, a familiar symbol of the Central Vietnamese coast. Soft, fluid curves are consistently expressed throughout the structure, from the roof and walls to the entrance canopy and the steps leading up to the rooftop level.
From a distance, the building stands out with its minimalist white palette, conveying a sense of modern elegance. This color choice further accentuates the architectural curves while creating a light, airy presence amid the surrounding greenery.
The appeal of the Son Tra Art Exhibition Center lies not only in its architectural form but also in its unique spatial experience. Visitors enter the ground floor, move through the exhibition halls, and then continue up to the rooftop. Each step opens up a different perspective of the building.
An artistic gathering space
The two-story building dedicates both floors to exhibition space. The galleries are designed to be spacious and well-ventilated, maximizing natural light. Inside, white walls serve as a neutral backdrop for a wide range of artworks from paintings and photography to contemporary art pieces. The flexible layout allows the venue to accommodate various types of exhibitions.
Beyond showcasing artworks, the exhibition center also aims to preserve and promote the cultural heritage of the former Son Tra District and the newly expanded Da Nang. Numerous exhibitions have been held here, highlighting the nature and people of Central Vietnam, traditional festivals, and the distinctive cultural life of coastal communities.
While the Son Tra Art Exhibition Center draws crowds during the day, another public space, March 29 Square, has become a popular nighttime gathering spot.
Ms. Vo Thi Thanh Huyen, a resident of Thanh Khe Ward, shared that many of her friends from other provinces chose Da Nang’s public spaces to capture memorable moments with friends.
From squares and parks to exhibition houses and museums, many newly built projects embrace modern, community-friendly architectural thinking. The harmonious blend of functionality and aesthetics has transformed these public works into “anchors of memory” within the urban landscape.
A recognized architectural landmark
With its creative design, the Son Tra Art Exhibition Center has received multiple accolades in the field of architecture.
Most recently, it was named among 50 outstanding architectural works honored by the Vietnam Association of Architects, receiving a Certificate of Merit for “Outstanding Architectural Works in Southern Provinces and Cities - 50 Years of National Reunification” within the conference “Vietnamese Architecture - 50 Years of National Reunification”.