Nikken Sekkei-designed Vietnam Military History Museum Wins National Architecture Awards Grand Prize

The Nikken Sekkei-designed Vietnam Military History Museum won a Grand Prize at the 16th National Architecture Awards (2024-2025). The Museum marks the second project to receive the prize since its establishment. In all, some 239 projects were submitted in seven categories for honors. Winners were announced on May 20 at the Hanoi Opera House. Nikken design fellow Hiroshi Miyakawa and other project members attended the awards ceremony.

Vietnam's history is marked by its struggles for independence and sovereignty. This museum honors that legacy while addressing the nation's growing need for cultural infrastructure. The concept embodies three fundamental elements of Vietnam's territory—Sea, Land, and Sky—which also represent the three military branches. Visitors begin their journey by crossing a wide 3000 square meter water feature symbolizing maritime heritage, ascend a gentle green hill representing fertile land, ultimately entering the main structure symbolizing the nation's upward aspiration. Located in the heart of a 38.6 hectare park, the museum sits atop a hill, resembling a giant canopy that provides shade and seamlessly connects indoor and semi-outdoor spaces with the landscape. A dramatic 25m tall colonnade curves 300m along the green hill, creating a fluid indoor-outdoor transition. The columns gradually lean outward up to 25 degrees evoking celebratory raised arms, while curved arches reference Vietnam's legendary magical crossbow—transforming military symbols into an architecture of peace.

Client : Ministry of National Defence, Vietnam
Architect: Nikken Sekkei Ltd
Co-architects: Design Consultant and Investment of Constructions One Member Limited Liability Company - Ministry of Defence (DCCD)(Architectural design), Vietnam Investment Consulting and Construction Designing Joint Stock Company (CDC)(Structural and M&E engineering)

Founded in 1993, the National Architecture Awards is a biennial competition organized by the Vietnam Association of Architects, along with the Ministry of Construction and the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism. It is aimed at honoring architects who have developed modern architectural designs associated with Vietnam’s cultural identity.