UOB Bank, Hochiminh

by Union Architects
LocationLevel 1, Mplaza, 39 Le Duan, District 1, Hochiminh City
Scope of workDesign & Build
Size2000 sqm
Designed byUnion Architects
Year2024

The design from Union Architects inspired by the contemporary art movement of UOB – Painting of the Year.

Continuing the journey of connecting and elevating art, we rely on your resources – people and art – to create the narrative that drives this project, from the naive drawings of children to renowned artworks.

This will take us through various spaces across the office, allowing us to experience the different levels of creativity, from cityscapes to rural scenes, and from realistic to abstract depictions.

This initiative aims to infuse the new office with an artistic spirit and boundless creativity, paving the way for UOB’s inspiring journeys ahead.

UOB MPlaza, HCMC

With a mission to redefine traditional banking design norms, the UOB HCMC in MPlaza Le Duan Street promotes a Art culture across the region.

We were engaged to imagine a 2,000 sqm transformative space that integrates nature and architecture while reflecting UOB’s core values.

Setting a vertical journey that breaks away from conventional set-ups, we created a dynamic hub that enhances the experience and brings collaboration to new heights.

We envisioned a concept story that captures the essence of Vietnamese culture to create an inspiring, productive, and collaborative work environment where the UOB Mplaza team can exceed their potential and experience a real sense of belonging.

The WorkBistro includes town hall spaces, entertainment areas and comfortable waiting zones for visitors. Artworks by local artists inspire creativity while enhancing sense of belonging, providing a premium experience for all.

Meeting the needs and workstyles of 400 people

Union actively engaged with UOB stakeholders through interviews and profiling to build an equitable workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered. Transitioning away from assigned desks, paper-based systems and a culture of separate offices, we developed a flexible workspace that caters to diverse working preferences and needs.

The result is a space with modular layouts and task-centric workspaces. Additionally, noise zoning measures optimise the open plan with unassigned desks and neighbourhoods. By promoting communication and collaboration, this layout connects business units and supports new ideas.

Harmonising the space with local cultural elements

The office celebrates the wonders of Vietnamese: architecture, cultural diversity, rainforests, art and heritage. These themes are integrated into the bistro on each working floor, to create a warm, engaging and localised atmosphere.

 

Enriching inclusive workplace and celebrating diversity

The project supports neurodiverse personalisation through flexible settings and customisable team totems. It also addresses accessibility with touchless access and smart lift technology. Additionally, the space promotes inclusivity by providing prayer rooms, mother’s rooms and childcare services.

By embracing the company’s goal to break away from traditional banking design norms, this new space encourages an active workplace experience. UOB Mplaza’s HCMC is a collaborative and flexible environment that celebrates excellence, setting a new standard in Vietnam and beyond.