Tucked in the heart of a coastal city in southern Vietnam sits a family home that its architects proudly call a “bridge,” connecting nature — the mountain poised behind the house — to the human experience and the city beyond.
NAQI & Partners, the architects behind the creation of Nha Trang Pool Villa, cite balance as one of their core principles, which is heavily expressed in this project. From the use of curved edges and an open concept on each floor of the building, they balance modern living with the owner’s desire for relaxation and proximity to nature through a “bright and airy space.”
Harsh edges and sharp corners are absent from the space, which is seen on every surface — even the roof’s capsule-shaped openings, which hold a significance of their own. “Inspired by the Dynamic Island feature of the iPhone,” the architects share, “the rooftop is a delicate detail reflecting the homeowner’s profession — the owner of an iPhone dealership.”
The rounded edges seen on each floor and wall are used to “optimize space, reduce wind resistance and allow for smooth passage of breezes and sunlight.” Long, cascading steps in the front courtyard of the house resemble a waterfall, but the natural elements continue through the carefully placed greenery and flowers throughout the house, weaving in and out of the building to further emulate the role of the house as a bridge from nature to human civilization.
Perhaps the most show-stopping part of the Pool Villa is, of course, the pool. Set on the ground floor, the inground pool is just steps away from the living room area, separated by a couch and a lip at the edge of the pool to ensure its water stays contained. The ceiling above the pool opens up to show off the ascending stairs and the skylight three stories above it.
Blending seamlessly with the sky, the homeowner and their family can reach a moment of complete peace and relaxation right inside their home. Laying on their backs, staring up at a sky full of stars, nestled in a limbo state between nature and humanity.
This article first appeared in the January 2026 issue of AQUA Magazine — the top resource for retailers, builders and service pros in the pool and spa industry. Subscriptions to the print magazine are free to all industry professionals. Click here to subscribe.
