Research on the Indigenous Architecture and Its Transformation of the Bahnar Rong Houses in Kon Tum City, Vietnam

The Bahnar people, one of the 54 officially recognized ethnic groups in Vietnam, residing in the Central Highlands, are characterized by their distinctive culture and customs. A significant architectural symbol for them is the "Rong" house, a traditional community house found in every Bahnar village. This house has unique architectural features, particularly the axe-shaped roof reaching 20 meters in height, which has yet to be thoroughly studied from an architectural perspective. The Bahnar Rong houses encapsulate the architectural essence and indigenous spirit that have been meticulously preserved and handed down through generations. They function as communal spaces for villagers, hosting meetings, ceremonies, and collaborative activities that engage people of all ages. Constructed with traditional techniques and natural materials, the Rong house is characterized by a design that harmonizes with the local climate, terrain, environment, culture, and customs. However, due to urbanization and modernization, these houses have been transformed in terms of materials, construction methods, and morphological design. Many Rong houses have been extensively altered, threatening their intrinsic architectural values. This research examines 44 Rong houses in Bahnar ethnic villages in Kon Tum City through field measurements, interviews, document reviews, and comparative analysis to identify their core architectural features and assess transformations driven by modernization. Furthermore, this research will serve as a valuable resource for the conservation and restoration of Rong houses that have been changed or lost in the future.