A new look of Đông Kinh–Nghĩa Thục Square near the iconic Hoàn Kiếm Lake in downtown Hà Nội has stirred mixed reactions from residents and visitors alike. — VNA/VNS Photo

HÀ NỘI — The Urban and Architectural Institute under the Hà Nội University of Civil Engineering has confirmed that the renovation of Đông Kinh–Nghĩa Thục Square, an integral part of the pedestrian zone surrounding the iconic Hoàn Kiếm Lake in downtown Hà Nội, has only completed the first phase of its design plan.

The project is not yet finished and will undergo further stages to ensure seamless integration with the surrounding urban space, said Nguyễn Mạnh Cường, deputy director of the Institute and head of the design consultancy team for the project, as he addressed public concerns over the square’s facelift.

In recent days, the square has taken on a new look with expanded pedestrian areas, prompting mixed reactions from residents and visitors.

Following the demolition of the much-loved 'Shark Jaw' building – a six-storey commercial centre at No 7 Đinh Tiên Hoàng Street – the city authorities installed a large LED screen on the façade of No 7–9 Đinh Tiên Hoàng, upgraded infrastructure, greenery and public amenities, and resurfaced the square.

On Đinh Tiên Hoàng Street, a parking lot was removed, median strips dismantled, traffic flow reorganised and movable planters placed between Hoàn Kiếm Street and the square, creating nearly 14,000 square metres of pedestrian-only space.

While some have praised the project for opening up public space, others argue the new design clashes with the area’s character and that the flowerbed layout causes traffic conflicts around the lake.

In response, Cường stressed that what the public sees now is only the first stage of Phase 1, aimed at preparing for major political and cultural events in the capital. Later stages will feature a more comprehensive design process that actively incorporates public feedback.

“This is a key project for Hà Nội,” he said. “Given its proximity to Hoàn Kiếm Lake, Đông Kinh–Nghĩa Thục Square must reflect the city’s cultural identity while embracing modern, progressive development and honouring 80 years of national history.”

A large LED screen has been installed on the façade of No 7–9 Đinh Tiên Hoàng building. — VNA/VNS Photo

Cường acknowledged the challenge of completing the design in such a short time. The institute, he said, opted for a solution that balances the landscape with event deadlines.

A major focal point of the redesign is a 12-by-17-metre LED screen meant to express modernity, while its soft yellow tone was chosen to harmonise with the Old Quarter and Hoàn Kiếm’s heritage setting.

“In a historical setting like the Old Quarter, overly modern images risk feeling out of place. That’s why we opted for simple, clean lines that highlight the unique features of Hà Nội’s heritage while celebrating its traditional values,” he explained.

Responding to criticism that the LED screen area does not match the visual impact of the old 'Shark Jaw' building, Cường emphasised that the screen is an urban amenity serving the community.

He added that the design team carefully considered harmony with surrounding buildings. Currently, several power boxes sit beneath the LED screen, requiring temporary coverings. Within three to four months, after these boxes are relocated, the design will incorporate more modern era-appropriate elements at the base of the screen.

“The square’s current appearance represents only the first stage of Phase 1,” Cường said. “Between now and the next phase, we will continue to listen to public feedback both online and through sociological surveys of residents and regular users of this space. Only by understanding their needs, can we deliver the most suitable final design.”

According to the city’s plan, the redevelopment consists of two phases.

Phase 1 includes demolition of the 'Shark Jaw' building at 1–3–5 Đinh Tiên Hoàng Street; renovation of the Hapro building at 7–9 Đinh Tiên Hoàng Street; façade upgrades for private houses along Đinh Tiên Hoàng Street; restoration of the historic Thủy Tạ restaurant on the lake’s edge to its original architecture; traffic reorganisation, removal of medians and relocation of parking lots as directed by the Hà Nội People’s Committee.

Phase 2 will involve further expansion of the square’s public space; renovation of the first row of buildings facing the square; comprehensive upgrades of technical infrastructure to match the status of Hoàn Kiếm Lake as a national special relic; and installation of additional public facilities to support cultural and community activities.

Đông Kinh–Nghĩa Thục Square is more than a popular tourist spot. It is considered a 'living heritage' of Hà Nội. The square frequently serves as the stage for major cultural and artistic events, especially during Tết, New Year’s Eve and other national holidays. On these occasions, thousands of residents and visitors gather here to celebrate and reflect on the city’s proud history. — VNS