The Nguyễn Văn Hảo Building is an Art Deco commercial and residential building at the junction of Trần Hưng Đạo, Ký Con, and Yersin streets in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. The structure’s wedge shape gives it the nickname of a “flatiron” building. Its prominent, curved facade faces the major intersection near the Bến Thành Market.
Businessman Nguyễn Văn Hảo commissioned the building, with construction finishing in 1937. The architecture displays characteristic Art Deco elements, including strong geometric lines and large glass window sections. The exterior facade still features the carved initials of the original owner, “NG.V.HAO”. The building’s unique form resembles the bow of a ship, a design choice that makes it a local landmark.
Originally, the building provided a residence for Nguyễn Văn Hảo’s family on its upper floors. The ground floor housed his successful automotive parts company, Comptoir Nguyễn Văn Hảo Saïgonnais. He was a prominent entrepreneur in Saigon during the early 20th century, known for his auto business and for financing the nearby Nguyễn Văn Hảo Theatre. The building was among the city’s significant pre-war commercial structures.
Today, the upper floors remain residential, with some descendants of the original family reportedly still living there. The ground-floor spaces host several local businesses. A spice shop, Ong Chà Và, operates from a storefront at the base of the building, offering visitors a chance to see the historic patterned tiles and interior details.
Admire the 1930s architecture, patterned tiles, and natural light. A spice shop Ong Chava on the first floor offers a chance to see the interior. The owner collected the antiques displayed.
Questions & Answers
Where is the Nguyễn Văn Hảo Building located?
The Nguyễn Văn Hảo Building is situated at the junction of Trần Hưng Đạo, Ký Con, and Yersin streets in Phường Nguyễn Thái Bình, Quận 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
What architectural style is the Nguyễn Văn Hảo Building known for?
The Nguyễn Văn Hảo Building is known for its distinctive Art Deco architecture, featuring strong geometric lines, large glass window sections, and a prominent, curved facade.
What are the opening hours for businesses within the Nguyễn Văn Hảo Building?
The businesses in the Nguyễn Văn Hảo Building generally operate from 08:00 to 17:00 Monday to Friday, and from 08:00 to 12:00 on Saturdays.
What is the history behind the Nguyễn Văn Hảo Building's name?
The building is named after its original owner, businessman Nguyễn Văn Hảo, who commissioned its construction, which was completed in 1937.
Is the Nguyễn Văn Hảo Building still used for its original purposes?
Yes, the Nguyễn Văn Hảo Building continues to be used for both commercial and residential purposes, with local businesses on the ground floor and residences on the upper floors.
What makes the Nguyễn Văn Hảo Building a landmark in Ho Chi Minh City?
The Nguyễn Văn Hảo Building is a landmark due to its unique wedge shape, earning it the nickname of a 'flatiron' building, and its prominent Art Deco design at a major intersection.
Are there any notable businesses currently operating on the ground floor of the Nguyễn Văn Hảo Building?
Yes, a spice shop called Ong Chà Và operates from a storefront on the ground floor of the Nguyễn Văn Hảo Building, allowing visitors to see its historic interior details.
How can I contact the Nguyễn Văn Hảo Building or its administration?
You can contact the Nguyễn Văn Hảo Building at the phone number 0972333691 during its operating hours.
When was the Nguyễn Văn Hảo Building constructed?
The Nguyễn Văn Hảo Building was constructed and completed in 1937, making it one of the city's significant pre-war commercial structures.
What unique design element can be seen on the exterior of the Nguyễn Văn Hảo Building?
The exterior facade of the Nguyễn Văn Hảo Building features the carved initials of the original owner, 'NG.V.HAO', and its unique form resembles the bow of a ship.
