Garden Houses

‍What are the Garden Homes (Nha Ruong)?

‍

The Royal Homes are authentic heritage residences from old times, representing the historical grandeur of royal families and Mandarins. These majestic houses have been carefully preserved and relocated to the peaceful Kim Long village. Built according to strict Feng Shui principles, a Royal Home is designed as a harmonious ensemble, integrating the house with its surrounding garden, pond, and yard to create a balanced environment.

known locally as Nhà Rường, derives its name from the word "rường," which refers to the wooden pillars that form the structural backbone of the house. These traditional houses are constructed using a sophisticated system of wooden columns and beams, following classic Vietnamese architectural layouts such as chữ đinh, chữ công, and chữ khẩu, combining both functional and aesthetic principles. The houses are built with precision joinery, using wooden pegs and mortise-and-tenon connections, which allow the structures to be assembled or dismantled with ease.

‍

What historical significance do the Royal Homes (Nha Ruon) hold?

‍

The Royal Homes stand as a testament to the enduring legacy of royal families and Mandarins in Hue. Their preservation offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing the architectural styles, living customs, and artistic preferences of the noble class. The very existence of these carefully maintained and relocated residences in Kim Long village underscores their importance as authentic heritage and their role in preserving the historical grandeur of the region.

Here at Ancient Hue, the Truong Tien House is in fact a former residence of a Nguyen Dynasty official. We acquired, conserved, and moved it to its current location within Ancient Hue.

Why were the Royal Homes (Nha Ruon) favored by Hue's aristocracy?

‍

Situated amidst lush gardens and serene courtyards, these Royal Homes not only served as residences but also as a reflection of social prestige and cultural sophistication. Each house was thoughtfully oriented and structured to maximize natural light, ventilation, and airflow, ensuring a comfortable living environment throughout the year. The intricate wood carvings on doors, windows, and beams often depict historical motifs, mythical creatures, and traditional patterns, blending artistry with symbolism.

The spacious design of the main halls and side wings allowed the residents to host ceremonial gatherings, family events, and cultural activities, maintaining both privacy and hospitality. The central courtyard often featured a pond or small garden, providing a tranquil space that encourages reflection and connection with nature. Such thoughtful integration of architecture and landscape demonstrates the ancient Vietnamese philosophy of harmony between human dwellings and the natural environment.

Additionally, the durability of materials used – primarily high-quality hardwoods – has allowed many Royal Homes to survive for centuries, preserving not only architectural beauty but also the legacy of craftsmanship passed down through generations. These spaces continue to retain their timeless elegance, functional design, and cultural richness, offering a living record of the lifestyle and refined tastes of Vietnam’s elite families

By combining practicality with artistry, Huế Royal Homes remain a testament to the sophisticated architectural knowledge of the past, offering both aesthetic pleasure and practical comfort, which continues to inspire modern interpretations of traditional Vietnamese living spaces.

‍