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Bamboo Dome OpeningBamboo building virtuoso <a href="http://www.votrongnghia.com/">Vo Trong Nghia</a> designed and constructed the gorgeous bamboo Water and Wind Cafe in the Binh Duong province of Vietnam. Not only does the domed structure the versatility and strength of <a href="http://inhabitat.com/index.php?s=bamboo">bamboo</a>, which is a rapid-growing renewable material, it was also built without the use of even one nail!1
Bamboo Dome Looks Like Giant CoconutWe've seen other <a href="http://inhabitat.com/bamboo-bridge-school-wins-a-2010-aga-khan-award/">bamboo buildings </a>before but what makes Nghia's stand out is the dynamic domed shapes he is able to achieve with the material - especially without the use of modern machinery or metal structures.2
Bamboo Dome Looks Like Giant CoconutIn fact, every bit of <a href="http://inhabitat.com/index.php?s=bamboo">bamboo </a>in the design was woven together using traditional Vietnamese weaving techniques.3
Bamboo Dome Looks Like Giant CoconutThe cafe's frame measures 30 feet high and features an opening at the very top of the <a href="http://inhabitat.com/copper-dome-house-is-a-puzzling-garden-home/">dome</a> that allows daylight to stream inside.4
Bamboo Dome Looks Like Giant CoconutLike many other Vietnamese structures, it is covered in a local bush plant, which evokes an African-esque aesthetic.5
Bamboo Dome Looks Like Giant CoconutAnother of Nghia's structures. Contrary to what you might think about building with natural, local materials, the end result is not "homemade" looking at all and is actually rather streamlined and majestic.6
Bamboo Dome Looks Like Giant CoconutA retreat space designed by Nghia with an incredible vaulted ceiling made of - you guessed it - bamboo.7
