Architecture News

The Calm Haven House, a contemporary architectural marvel, stands as a testament to serene living, conceptualized and brought to life by the visionary team at ADA Design & Build. This residential project, completed in 2025, offers a peaceful sanctuary amidst the bustling life of Can Tho, Vietnam. Spanning an impressive 320 square meters, the dwelling was meticulously designed for a dynamic young couple, both dedicated medical professionals hailing from the verdant Mekong Delta, often referred to as the "Land of Coconuts." Their journey, marked by a profound connection forged during their university years and a shared commitment to the demanding medical field, culminated in the desire for a tranquil abode as they anticipated the arrival of their first child. This home was envisioned as a haven where they could decompress and rejuvenate from the rigors of their work, emphasizing calmness, warmth, and an inviting atmosphere.

Project Spotlight: Calm Haven House in Can Tho

In the vibrant city of Can Tho, Vietnam, the esteemed architectural firm ADA Design & Build unveiled the Calm Haven House in 2025. This project was a heartfelt endeavor for a young doctor couple, who, after years of dedication to their medical careers, sought a peaceful sanctuary to start their family. Lead Architect Chau Thang spearheaded the design, creating a 320 square meter residence that embodies tranquility and comfort. The design team, including Nguyen Huynh Duy Anh, meticulously crafted every detail. Real Lighting illuminated the spaces with thoughtful lighting designs, while TimeDesign brought warmth and functionality to the interiors. The surrounding landscape, artfully shaped by NinhKieu Landscape, enhances the home’s serene ambiance. Noteworthy materials such as stone, concrete, and brick were thoughtfully integrated, ensuring both aesthetic appeal and structural integrity. The house prominently features products from Hafele, contributing to its modern and functional living spaces. The photographic artistry of Minh Quoc Bui beautifully captures the essence of this remarkable dwelling, showcasing its harmonious blend of modern design and serene living.

The creation of the Calm Haven House serves as a powerful reminder of the profound impact of thoughtful design on well-being. It underscores the idea that a home can be more than just a structure; it can be a vital retreat, a source of peace, and a foundation for personal and family growth. This project inspires us to consider how our living spaces can actively contribute to our mental and emotional restoration, especially for those in demanding professions. The collaboration between the architects, lighting designers, interior designers, and landscape artists highlights the synergy required to realize such a holistic vision, proving that a well-designed environment can indeed foster a calm and nurturing haven.

CODOO STUDIO's Martha Tavern project in Madrid, Spain, redefines the classic tavern experience by creating an environment that feels more like a home than a typical bar. The design concept revolves around openness and intimacy, crafting spaces that invite guests to relax and socialize in a comfortable setting. The project, completed in 2025 and spanning 190 square meters, stands out for its unique approach to hospitality interiors, where every detail contributes to a sense of warmth and belonging. This innovative design challenges conventional notions of public dining spaces, offering a refreshing perspective on communal and personal comfort within a commercial establishment.

The tavern's interior blends modern aesthetics with natural elements, employing a sophisticated material palette and thoughtful lighting solutions. The aim is to balance elegance with a relaxed vibe, making Martha Tavern a destination where patrons can enjoy fine dining in an ambiance that feels both luxurious and familiar. The architects, Sergio Ortiz and Jose David Costa, along with their design team, focused on creating a seamless flow between different areas of the tavern, ensuring that each zone offers a distinct yet harmonious experience. This meticulous attention to detail transforms the space into a memorable culinary and social retreat.

The Vision: A Home-Like Tavern Experience

CODOO STUDIO embarked on a distinctive architectural journey with Martha Tavern, aiming to subvert the conventional bar aesthetic. Instead of mimicking a bar, the design team chose to conceptualize and execute a space that embodies the warmth and familiarity of a domestic dwelling, yet remains open and inviting to the public. This innovative approach sought to bridge the gap between private comfort and public engagement, creating an environment where patrons could feel at ease and connected, much like being in a well-appointed home. The vision was to craft a unique dining and social hub that prioritizes intimacy, relaxation, and a sense of belonging over the often bustling and impersonal nature of traditional taverns.

The core philosophy behind Martha Tavern was to create an inviting atmosphere that encourages lingering conversations and shared experiences. This was achieved through a careful selection of design elements that evoke homeliness, such as comfortable seating arrangements, soft lighting, and a thoughtful layout that fosters a sense of privacy within an open plan. The architects deliberately moved away from typical commercial design tropes, opting instead for a more personal and curated feel. By transforming the tavern into a 'public home,' CODOO STUDIO offered a novel interpretation of hospitality, making Martha Tavern a tranquil sanctuary where guests can unwind and enjoy a refined yet unpretentious environment.

Design and Ambiance: Crafting a Unique Culinary Space

The physical manifestation of CODOO STUDIO's vision for Martha Tavern is evident in its meticulously designed interiors. Located in Madrid, Spain, the 190-square-meter space, completed in 2025, showcases a harmonious blend of materials, textures, and lighting. The design team, led by Sergio Ortiz and Jose David Costa, utilized natural elements to enhance the feeling of warmth and authenticity, integrating wood, stone, and bespoke furnishings to create a tactile and visually rich environment. The strategic placement of lighting fixtures further contributes to the intimate ambiance, casting a soft glow that highlights architectural details and creates inviting pockets throughout the tavern.

Every aspect of Martha Tavern's interior has been thoughtfully considered to elevate the guest experience. From the layout of the dining areas to the selection of decor, the design promotes both functionality and aesthetic appeal. The result is a sophisticated yet comfortable space where modern design principles meet traditional Spanish charm. The collaborative efforts of the architects and the precise photography by German Saiz capture the essence of this unique project, demonstrating how architectural innovation can transform a standard commercial venue into a distinctive and memorable destination. Martha Tavern stands as a testament to CODOO STUDIO's ability to redefine hospitality spaces, offering a refined and homely retreat in the heart of Madrid.