BT5 Villa, located within the lush surrounds of Lakeside Splendora and designed by APDI Architecture, stands out with its streamlined, minimal silhouette—an approach that allows the architecture to blend effortlessly into its natural setting
Set within a green enclave of lakes and landscaped grounds in Hanoi, the BT5 Villa resonates with calm through its harmonious and pared-back design. With three levels of private living set alongside open zones like gardens, porches and sheltered walkways, APDI Architecture has conceived a project that embodies both personal expression and sustainable principles. Aiming to nurture a symbiotic bond between structure and garden, the architects turned to the idea of “courtyards” as a unifying motif throughout the design.
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Above The façade of BT5 Villa
Occupying 250 square metres, the villa's three-storey structure feels grand yet restrained, thanks to a thoughtful interplay of solid and void. Through strategic balcony framing, the home’s exterior takes on a distinctive visual identity—offering seclusion while creating a gentle transition into the interior spaces.
The ground level hosts shared spaces including the living and dining rooms, kitchen and a semi-open lounge, all framed by a front yard, meandering paths and verdant planting. The second floor accommodates the master suite, children’s bedroom and bathrooms, each linked to a garden filled with multi-tiered greenery. Above, the top floor features a secluded retreat and an additional bedroom, both still connected to the tier below, with sweeping views of the landscape. The courtyard concept, meticulously devised by APDI Architecture, elegantly addresses several design challenges at once.
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Above Lighting solutions include deep eaves, wooden slats and programmable lighting that adapts to daily rhythms.

Above The entrance is embraced by a sculpted garden of stone, gravel and tropical planting.
The courtyards act as more than transitional spaces. They weave together the bold modern lines of the villa with the softness of the surrounding nature, while also enhancing the flow between indoor functions—both across and between floors. Laterally, each section opens onto a pocket of green. Vertically, a layering of landscape unites the floors, ensuring seamless continuity. Lighting plays a crucial role, drawing on natural sources modulated through architectural elements like overhangs and timber screens, complemented by programmable illumination tailored to daily patterns.
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On the other hand, the courtyards at BT5 Villa reflect APDI Architecture’s strategy to craft a sustainable design that responds to the tropical climate. “At BT5 Villa, the deep porches and open courtyards are not merely aesthetic features—they serve as ‘micro-climate filters’, encouraging air flow, softening direct sunlight and moderating natural humidity. These are traditional passive methods, but expressed through a modern architectural lens,” shared architect Nham Chi Kien, founder of APDI Architecture.

Above Artificial lighting is programmed to suit different usage scenarios.

Above The lighting strategy at BT5 Villa combines natural and artificial light.
Climate responsiveness was just the beginning—making the most of natural light was a priority from the earliest sketch. The arrangement of gardens and courtyards was informed by a careful study of sun direction, wind patterns and solar movement. This insight guided the placement of windows both large and small, enhanced by elements like timber screens, overhangs and layered planting. Together, they harness daylight while shielding the interior from heat.
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Above The orientation of gardens and courtyards was determined by an analysis of sunlight, wind and solar movement.
The project took its cue from the homeowner—an avid architecture enthusiast. “The client had a clear vision for the spatial experience, shaped by daily routines, relaxation habits and privacy needs. The greatest challenge was finding a way to personalise the space without disrupting the integrity of the overall design,” the architect explained.
The approach was to listen first, then transform those ideas into architecture. Open areas were arranged with flexibility in mind, blending greenery with tactile, nature-inspired materials—ensuring each moment within the home offers a sense of connection and meaning.

Above The star ceiling is designed as an art piece, powered by RGB LED “ambient light”.
The star ceiling, conceived as a work of art, features an RGB LED “ambient light” source. Adjustable in both colour and intensity, it offers a dynamic lighting experience—tailored for the homeowner, who works in light and sound.
The “connecting courtyards” have fulfilled their intent, making BT5 Villa a compelling reflection of APDI Architecture’s philosophy—where landscape is not an accessory, but a central design element. Here, architectural space is shaped around personal experience and environmental performance. It’s a model APDI believes has broader potential: “It’s not only suited to villas. Even within townhouses, elements like courtyards, skylights, shading devices or trees can be skilfully incorporated to evoke the sensation of living amid nature.”
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