Kim Ngan Communal House, a quiet relic site preserving the golden legacy of Hanoi’s renowned goldsmith guild, stands peacefully at 44 Hang Bac street. The communal house’s ancient gate acts as a gentle transition between the vibrant urban life outside and the stillness of heritage within. (Photo: Hai Ha)

Rather than fading into the dust of time, the national relic has come alive through the special project “Kim Ngan Communal House Storytelling Space,” inviting visitors into a convergence of history and the present. The project is part of a series of events celebrating the 20th anniversary of Vietnam Cultural Heritage Day (23/11/2005–23/11/2025).

The exhibition space opens with documents, models, and illustrations telling about the origin of the craft.

Architect Bui Tien of Boi An Design JSC, project leader of “Kim Ngan Communal House Storytelling Space,” said the initiative was inspired by his deep passion for traditional Vietnamese motifs and patterns. This is the most dedicated and large-scale project he has ever undertaken, said Tien. (Photo: Hai Ha)

The space is designed with blending of architecture, signage, utilities, and displays, recreating the typical space of a goldsmith guild, a signature craft of Hang Bac street.

“Cultural and heritage values have always been a foundation for us to move forward in the modern era. That’s why, throughout the project, we have constantly searched for new perspectives to make traditional patterns and motifs more accessible to the public,” architect Bui Tien said.

The exhibition explores the aesthetic and cultural value of traditional motifs, creating a new visual identity for Kim Ngan Communal House.

The project showcases the craftsmanship of gold and silver artisans, horn carving artisans, and other traditional craft masters.

The “Hundred Crafts Tree” with each lantern hung on the tree depicting a traditional craft scene illustrated by artists.

Cultural stories are told by young volunteer guides.

Le The Anh, a fourth-year student at the Hanoi National University of Education’s History Faculty, says he feels honored to help promote Vietnamese culture to visitors.

Foreign tourists are excited to explore new and unique activities at Kim Ngan Communal House.

Ricardo Arce, a tourist from Colombia, is excited to try Thanh Lieu woodblock printing for the first time.

With its storytelling approach through artifacts and traditional motifs, the project vividly brings the craft guild’s heritage to life. The relic is no longer something to admire from afar ,it has become a space that is lively, engaging, and interactive. Products displayed at Kim Ngan Communal House