THE ORIGIN OF THE STORY:
THANG GING
There are 54 ethnic groups that have diverse forms of architectural development for homes. In many of these ethnic groups, the kitchen space is considered the center or soul of the house in their traditional architecture. The Chăm people's traditional architecture follows this pattern as well. Their kitchen space is called "Shang Ging" in the Chăm language and it is the theme that the author's group aims to explore in the kitchen space design competition this year.
Let's take a moment to understand the cultural features of the Chăm people before exploring the design details. The Chăm people are well-known for their iconic tower structures with pointed arches and distinctive red brick, which are frequently associated with many of their heritage sites. They also use ornate details such as Linga and Yoni as symbols of growth and development in their ancient culture. Additionally, their characteristic pottery and terracotta craftsmanship also hold significant cultural features. These cultural features inspired the author's group to create a kitchen space for the Chăm people in modern life.
The group's design features a small kitchen in a townhouse, which represents a common kitchen space for contemporary Vietnamese households. The kitchen island is at the center of this space, drawing inspiration from the symbolism of Linga and Yoni in Chăm culture, representing growth and development. The island is stylized with the gentle and flowing imagery of Yoni or the pottery products being crafted by artisans. There is also a movable dining table to ensure ample space for the household. Above, a hood is designed in black, featuring sharp lines reminiscent of the strength of the Linga. The kitchen island hosts a stove with three cooking zones from Panasonic, while the dining table ensures versatility for hosting gatherings or traditional Chăm ceremonies.
Surrounding the kitchen island are equally important supporting elements such as display shelves, cabinets, kitchen shelves, and a refrigerator. The refrigerator placement is inspired by the Chăm towers, guiding users into an abstract space within the Chăm cultural context. Additionally, the formation of kitchen cabinet doors cleverly incorporates terracotta patterns through wall sculptures and, notably, the glass doors with terracotta patterns in the middle. On the kitchen's I-shaped side, electrical appliances such as a water purifier, auxiliary stove with hood, oven, and microwave are arranged, ensuring a modern kitchen's needs with Panasonic appliances. The specially designed shelf with glass and wood, accentuated with directional lights, allows the homeowners to display traditional ceramic products.
When it comes to interior design, the choice of materials is of utmost importance. The Chăm people's architecture prominently features the color of raw terracotta tiles, making it the predominant color palette. Additionally, shades of copper, bronze, and black - colors that represent the nobility of the ancient Chăm ethnic group - are extensively incorporated. Ebony wood or black is used as an accent color. The colors of the interior space are reflected in the materials of electrical appliances, particularly the refrigerator door, creating a harmonious overall color scheme.
Through this approach, the author's group has created a unique space that preserves cultural heritage while introducing modernity through a fully equipped kitchen for the competition. Ultimately, the goal is to bring people closer to their cultural heritage and encourage its development in the technological age.

FORMATION OF THE IDEA:
In the center of this space, there will be a kitchen island inspired by the Linga and Yoni images in Chăm culture, symbolizing growth and development. The island is stylized with the soft and graceful imagery of Yoni, resembling the work of skilled artisans crafting ceramic products. A movable dining table accompanies the island, ensuring ample space for the household.
Above the island, a black hood with sharp lines reminiscent of the strength of the Linga - a representation of masculinity - is designed. The island hosts a stove with three cooking zones from Panasonic, while the dining table ensures versatility for hosting elegant gatherings or traditional Chăm celebrations. Essential components such as display shelves, cabinets, kitchen shelves, and a refrigerator surround the island.
Examining the placement of the refrigerator, the design references the Chăm towers, guiding users into an abstract space within the Chăm cultural context.

Detail The upper cabinet doors :
The upper cabinet doors in this kitchen have been specially designed by the author's group to showcase the unique value of the Chăm people, who are known for their exceptional skills in weaving fabric. The doors consist of two layers of tempered glass with a layer of translucent fabric in between. This allows a glimpse of the displayed items inside, creating an artistic and functional display. The patterns on the fabric are also integrated into other objects in the room to establish a visual connection with the kitchen area. The author's group aims to preserve and honor the cultural value of the Chăm people through this design.