Facade: At first sight, Ganh Tranh Cafe brings a sense of nostalgia with a facade imbued with tradition, but still exudes a subtle modernity. This is not only a cafe but also an architectural work, where the intersection between the past and the present is impressively expressed.
Inspired by the ancient houses of the North, the facade of Ganh Tranh Cafe bears the typical features of traditional Vietnamese architecture. The familiar image of red tiled roofs of old houses symbolizes sustainability and closeness. The green wooden door frames evoke the old streets, creating both a highlight and a warm, rustic feeling. The gentle folk decorative patterns dotted on the walls and wooden doors help the space to be imbued with cultural identity. Each line is carefully calculated to preserve the spirit of traditional architecture, but does not make the space heavy or outdated.

Interior Design: Gánh Tranh Cafe is thoughtfully designed with a deep respect for preserving the soul of Vietnamese culture, clearly reflected in its spatial layout inspired by the traditional Northern Vietnamese house. From the very first step inside, guests are embraced by the warmth and familiarity of a bygone home—where every seating area is carefully arranged to offer both intimacy and connection. Signature design elements such as stylized communal house roofs, lacquered wooden columns, whimsical carp lanterns adorning the ceiling, and Đông Hồ paintings lining the corridors do more than add aesthetic charm—they weave a vivid narrative of Vietnamese folk culture. The space unfolds as a gentle transition between the present and the past, allowing visitors to pause, unwind, and reflect.
Materials: Gánh Tranh Cafe employs traditional materials such as natural wood, bamboo, rattan, woven cane, encaustic tiles, and unglazed terracotta to evoke a sense of rustic warmth and cultural intimacy. Wood is the backbone of the space—used extensively in the ceiling framework, furniture, wall paneling, and major architectural elements—offering both structural integrity and a cozy ambiance. Bamboo and woven cane are delicately integrated into decorative accents like pendant lights, partition screens, and seating, softening the space while adding a handcrafted, vernacular touch. The encaustic and terracotta floor tiles recall the timeless charm of countryside homes, delivering both visual character and long-lasting durability. Every material is carefully selected and treated to retain its natural, organic beauty while ensuring it meets the functional demands of a contemporary café environment.