Garden Houses

‍What are the Garden Homes (Nha Ruon)?

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.

‍‍

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 Ngu Binh 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?

Located within landscaped areas abundant with greenery, the Royal Homes were the dwellings of the wealthy and noble class. They were built in adherence to Feng Shui principles, which was believed to provide a protecting shelter and foster better harmony with nature for the families residing within. Furthermore, the furniture, intricate wood carvings, and sophisticated ornaments found within these homes reflected the status and refined taste of their noble inhabitants.

As a housing model favored by the aristocracy of old due to the meticulous detail in every aspect – from wood carvings to the roof tiles laid manually by imperial artisans – this type of house remains popular even today for the comfort it provides. The multi-layered arrangement of the tiles creates an air cushion, protecting the interior from harsh weather conditions: preventing heat from escaping in winter and blocking solar heat in summer. Inside, the three main sections can be fully opened at any time to allow for ventilation.