Panasonic Nanoco Studio Gallery

Opened in January 2016, the Panasonic Nanoco Studio Gallery stands as a modern beacon in Hanoi’s Dong Da district. This isn’t just a gallery; it’s a showroom, a workspace, and a testament to innovative design. The Panasonic Nanoco Studio Gallery is a four-story prismatic structure, wrapped in a unique facade of perforated terracotta blocks. These 5,625 blocks, a nod to Vietnam’s architectural heritage, create a striking visual impact. They also offer a practical solution for Hanoi’s tropical climate, providing shade and ventilation. Each block cost a mere £0.42, totaling £2,350 for the entire facade. The bespoke fixing system ensured quick and efficient assembly. Inside the Panasonic Nanoco Studio Gallery, a central void dominates the space. The showroom is cleverly arranged around this void, allowing visitors to take in the displayed lighting products from the central staircase. The top floor houses the gallery and workspace, a haven for architects and lighting design professionals. From here, they can enjoy views of a neighboring tree and access the roof garden with its slit skylights. The Panasonic Nanoco Studio Gallery’s design addressed several challenges posed by the small 72 sq m inner-city site. The architects had to consider the overshadowing foliage of the adjacent tree and the busy streetscape. This led to a design that complements the tree, with its shadows dancing on the facade during the day. At night, the illuminated building transforms into a captivating urban lantern. The Panasonic Nanoco Studio Gallery is more than just a building. It’s a dynamic interplay of light, shadow, and innovative design, a space where tradition meets modernity.