These aims include preserving cultural and historical values while enhancing underdeveloped elements that do not match the area's inherent worth, as well as meeting the cultural, spiritual and material development needs of residents and improving tourism economics.
Recently, Hanoi officials met to review design proposals for renovating Dong Kinh-Nghia Thuc Square in Hoan Kiem District. This space holds significant historical and cultural value, connecting two important areas: Hoan Kiem Lake and the Old Quarter.
According to Hanoi Vice Chairman Duong Duc Tuan, the city supports the proposal to demolish a controversial commercial building at 7 Dinh Tien Hoang Street, known as the "shark jaw", and develop underground spaces in the current square area and expanded space.
The square's design will extend to surrounding pavements, integrating with the overall space of the square area. The city will research stage placement in the square and along the streets leading to Dong Kinh-Nghia Thuc Square, appropriate viewing stand locations, as well as arrangements for greenery, lighting systems, pathways, and suitable solutions for heritage trees.
In addition, Hanoi has agreed on plans to accelerate the planning and renovation of the eastern area of Hoan Kiem Lake to create public, open spaces. To implement this project, Hanoi is expected to relocate several residences and offices, including the headquarters of Hanoi Power Corporation and the National Power Transmission Corporation.
Hanoi Chairman Tran Sy Thanh emphasised that this task requires immediate implementation, aligning with the policies to promote the value of Hoan Kiem Lake and its surroundings as a special national site.
Planning and urban development experts have highly praised Hanoi's approach and specific directives. Demolishing the "shark jaw" building — an architecturally controversial structure built in 1993 — will create an opportunity to reshape Dong Kinh-Nghia Thuc Square into a more spacious and functional area. While this building holds memories for many residents and tourists, it has been criticised for lacking harmony with the cultural-historical space around Hoan Kiem Lake.
Architect Pham Thanh Tung, from the Vietnam Association of Architects, stated: "Dong Kinh-Nghia Thuc Square is currently very small and not befitting a square in the capital’s central area, adjacent to a valuable heritage site like Hoan Kiem Lake. Removing the 'shark jaw' building and several other structures is entirely reasonable. Hanoi is the centre of the country, and Hoan Kiem Lake is the centre of Hanoi, yet the Hoan Kiem Lake area doesn't have a proper square. We've been using the space in front of the Hanoi Opera House for events, but that cannot be called a square — it's a traffic island."
Many residents and experts hope that the renovated Dong Kinh-Nghia Thuc Square could become a new symbol of Hanoi — not just an event venue but a cultural destination connecting past and present. Replacing the "shark jaw" building with a community space featuring refined architecture and design that connects with the overall Hoan Kiem Lake area will create an exceptionally valuable space.
Having been involved with the capital’s planning and architectural management for many years, Architect Dao Ngoc Nghiem, former Director of the Hanoi Department of Planning and Architecture, noted: "From years of experience, we’ve learned that to enhance the quality and appeal of Hoan Kiem Lake as a destination, we must follow two fundamental principles. First, we must secure public consensus; and second, we need a scientifically sound process that mobilises expert knowledge."
Currently, there are public concerns about the "shark jaw" building. Architect Pham Thanh Tung believes: "Any innovation involves some regret. But we must affirm that the 'shark jaw' building is not a landmark structure. The value lies in the location and site of that land, a very important focal point of the open space around Hoan Kiem Lake."
Upon learning about the expansion of space around Hoan Kiem Lake, many residents expressed support and hope that Hanoi will expedite procedures to implement these projects soon. Le Van Thang from Hang Be Street, Hoan Kiem District, remarked: "I find this very appropriate because the space around Hoan Kiem Lake is too cramped and stifling."
Though slightly regretful about losing the elevated seating where one could enjoy coffee while viewing Hoan Kiem Lake, Le Thu Ha from Hang Dao Ward, Hoan Kiem District, still agrees with the city’s approach. "Whenever I witness events held at Dong Kinh-Nghia Thuc Square, I realise how necessary it is to expand this space. I hope that after removing the building that blocks the lake view, the city will design a worthy square to serve the community better," said Ha.
An underground space with parking facilities is considered a highly practical solution to reduce the parking pressure in the central area, which is consistently overcrowded. When combined with public transport routes and vehicles, this will represent progress in improving the urban infrastructure of the urban core.
Hanoi’s policy on renovating the eastern area of Hoan Kiem Lake and Dong Kinh-Nghia Thuc Square represents necessary bold steps, demonstrating a strategic vision in urban planning. This is an opportunity for Hanoi to affirm its position as a modern and civilised capital while preserving and promoting its thousand-year cultural heritage. Residents, experts, and those who love Hanoi can look forward to a new appearance and the brilliance of the "jade" of Hoan Kiem Lake.
