When Architecture Meets Prime Land: International Design Competition at the Strategic Heart of District 4, Ho Chi Minh City

Fourteen architectural proposals from six design firms across various countries competed to create a landmark design for one of the last remaining prime riverfront plots in District 4, Ho Chi Minh City.

Aiming to shape a world-class living space while fostering a professional platform for architects to collectively define the future landscape of Southern Ho Chi Minh City, the investor — MHL — officially launched the jury evaluation phase of the international architectural design competition for the project at the golden land plot of 448 Nguyen Tat Thanh Street, District 4.

The competition attracted dozens of creative and impressive design proposals.

Within just two months of its launch, the competition received 14 submissions from six internationally renowned architectural consulting firms — including two from the United States, and one each from the Netherlands, France, Singapore, and China. This was a notable achievement, given the limited timeline and high quality requirements. All participating firms demonstrated serious investment, creativity, and close alignment with the jury’s five rigorous evaluation criteria. Many proposals showcased breakthrough architectural thinking, strong practical applicability, and a clear aesthetic impact.

The competition was organized by MHL Investment Joint Stock Company – a member of the IMG ecosystem and a strategic partner co-investing with IMG in the project – in collaboration with the Ho Chi Minh City Urban Planning Information Center (under the Department of Construction). This was not only a platform for showcasing breakthrough design ideas, but also a reflection of the architectural community’s responsibility, professional competence, and dedication to the sustainable and modern development of Ho Chi Minh City. As a comprehensive partner, IMG has been actively supporting MHL in developing various high-end real estate projects, with the shared goal of shaping smart urban environments, enhancing quality of life, and preserving architectural identity in key localities.

Mr. Le Tu Minh – Chairman of the Board of Directors of IMG Investment Joint Stock Company and Vice Chairman of the Jury – delivered the opening speech.

The Chairman of IMG shared: “As a strategic partner and co-investor in the project, we are honored to jointly organize this architectural competition — a significant milestone in the journey to create an iconic development, while also contributing to the enhancement of urban space quality in the city center. The submitted proposals are expected to express architectural symbolism and creativity, while ensuring investment efficiency, harmony with the surrounding landscape, optimal use of location and views, and strict compliance with planning criteria — all to guarantee a sustainable and safe building.”

The jury panel consisted of nine highly respected experts in the fields of architecture, urban planning, and urban development. Members included representatives from the Vietnam Association of Architects, the Vietnam Urban Planning and Development Association, senior officials from Ho Chi Minh City’s departments and agencies, as well as two international consulting architects from Germany and the Netherlands.
With years of practical experience and participation in the evaluation of hundreds of professional competitions, the jury ensured a fair and accurate selection process to identify the most optimal design solution.

All members of the jury panel were present early, contributing to an atmosphere of seriousness, objectivity, and professionalism.

According to the jury panel: “Many of the submitted proposals showcased breakthrough architectural thinking, harmoniously blending international integration with local identity. Several designs stood out for their distinctive architectural forms, each tied to a unique design narrative that reflected the personality and creative vision of the consulting team. The competition truly brought a fresh breeze to the architectural community. Notably, the designs were not only refined and innovative, but also demonstrated high applicability — ready to be transformed from drawings into real-world buildings.”

The judges actively engaged in in-depth discussions and critiques of each proposal — from the overall concept to specific façade materials — creating a dynamic and high-quality professional evaluation process.

The jury also highly appreciated the proposals that respected the overall site layout, offered well-organized public and communal spaces, and ensured adequate emergency egress and operational safety. The use of local materials and solutions that optimize natural lighting were also standout features, enabling many proposals to establish a distinct architectural identity while demonstrating strong feasibility for real-world implementation.

The Saigon Future project in District 4 is co-invested and developed by MHL Investment Joint Stock Company, a member of IMG Group. It is located at a prime site — 448 Nguyen Tat Thanh Street, Ward 18, District 4, Ho Chi Minh City. The development is envisioned as a high-rise residential complex integrated with premium commercial and service functions.

The prominent part of the project consists of the residential tower and technical floors, positioned above a multi-level podium that houses the lobby, community function areas, and commercial service spaces. The underground section fully meets the parking requirements and technical systems for building operation in accordance with current standards. Additionally, the landscaping system, park, and outdoor parking areas are cohesively planned to ensure a high quality of convenient and environmentally friendly living.

With an international-standard “live – work – enjoy” model, Saigon Future not only meets the demand for upscale living but also aims to become a symbol of modern lifestyle in the southern area of Ho Chi Minh City, thanks to its strategic location, transparent legal framework, and comprehensive amenities that offer sustainable investment value.

The final result was agreed upon after an in-depth analysis and strong consensus from the Judging Panel.

The competition is not only a convergence of breakthrough design ideas but also a platform showcasing the sense of responsibility, professional competence, and dedication of domestic architects toward the sustainable and modern development of the city named after Uncle Ho.

The investor MHL is a member of the IMG ecosystem, operating in real estate investment and office leasing. With a sustainable development orientation, MHL in particular and IMG in general are gradually contributing to the creation of smart cities and enhancing the quality of life in key localities. Notably, MHL and IMG have jointly developed The Artemis Hanoi project – a landmark in the high-end apartment segment combined with a commercial center, helping to demonstrate their capacity to execute large-scale projects and shape the trend of modern urban living spaces in central cities.