Xuan Tung Cao
master of architecture
KU leuven
Graduates: 2023
Specialisms: Architecture / Graphic Design
My location: Ghent, Belgium
Xuan Tung Cao
First Name: Xuan Tung
Last Name: Cao
University / College: KU leuven
Course / Program: master of architecture
Graduates: 2023
Specialisms: Architecture / Graphic Design
My Location: Ghent, Belgium
About
(Xuan) Tung Cao recently finished the Master of Architecture program at KU Leuven, Belgium with great distinction. He was born and raised in Hanoi, Vietnam, in an era of major economic and social changes. Witnessing the dynamic and rapid development of this Asian megacity throughout the years sparked his interest in the potential of public spaces for regenerating urban interconnectivity. He strongly believes that small interventions in spaces can generate a huge impact on living quality
“The Squares” is a multifunctional public facility designed to serve various current and future needs of the city of Ghent. The project focuses on different spatial forms to create a flexible environment for the residents to use for diverse adaptations and purposes in the future The building is located adjacent to Sint-Pietersplein Square in Ghent, at the intersection point of streets and pathways leading to this square. The ground floor is maximally open to the public, functioning as a flexible threshold connecting the surroundings to the main square. The roof is considered as the fifth facade, with one corner lowered to create a slope that connects the terrace to Sint-Pietersplein square below. With the gentle slope, this space is also designed as a playground where people can sit and watch the city from above. At the same time, the roof is perforated, creating various voids for different types of spaces inside the building, such as skylights, inner gardens, and connecting pathways. This helps bring greenery, natural light, and ventilation into the interior.