Vietnam is a place of substantial differences when compared to the States. Different sights, different smells, completely different culture. I could probably write a whole book about my experiences in South, Central, and North Vietnam. To hone in on a more specific point, there is much to be discussed about Vietnam's used of space.
Architecture in Vietnam does not vary much in certain parts. While entire buildings are about as narrow as a one-car parking garage, they tower four, sometimes five or six stories, pressed together like encyclopedias on a bookshelf. They are also built as deep as they are tall (pictured above). As Kunstler pointed out the lack of windows on the sides of a house, these buildings have a reason for that absence -- not enough space. While the reason for constructing buildings wall-to-wall is to save space in these overcrowded cities, they give a sense of togetherness, almost like huddling together for warmth. Nevertheless, while these buildings are capable of sharing such an intimate bond with one another, that bond is just as easily removed, disposable. As seen in the picture above, a building has been ripped from its metal rods that were used to connect it to the orange building.
In front of these buildings, the relationship between sidewalk and storefront is at its strongest. The wall is non-existent, except perhaps for a slight incline of a ramp used so mopeds and bicycles may enter the building. While some buildings are built deep, a few are build shallow (pictured above). The practicality of this design may be interpreted as an advantage: wherever you are inside, you are never too far from the outside. Vietnam is full of busy people who need not even enter the building to do their shopping. They simply stand on the sidewalk and, hey, fruit right there, at your disposal (duly note that fruit is a BIG part of Vietnamese diet; that's why we're so small lol).
After, before, or even during a long day of work, some people just want a quick, relaxing break. A local coffeeshop (pictured above) looks out directly onto the street. There are no walls to obstruct your view, not even glass windows. The openness between building and street is teeming. Additionally, the relationship between people themselves in this coffeeshop is almost forced, as the lawn chairs are laid out side by side. Mingling and conversing are the actions of the day.
Marketplaces (pictured above) are the most lively and interesting places to visit. Stalls, tents, and buildings are squashed together with barely enough room to breathe. The narrow space you have to walk is hindered every few steps when you must step aside for a moped or bicycle or ride through. Many times, these two-wheelers will shop while remaining seated. While Kunstler dreams of a future where people and environment can coexist closer together, I don't think he meant THIS close.
A better idea of what Kunstler wants seems to be more along the lines the photo pictured above, nightlife on the streets. Again, there is no wall between people and buildings. Either end of this street is blocked off to cars, only accessible to people, bicycles, and mopeds. It creates a safer, more inviting location. Sidewalks are large and spacious, though many times occupied by mopeds, though the street between sidewalks allows sightseers and visitors to enjoy an evening stroll.
The relationship between people and nature can be seen almost anywhere in Vietnam, especially in the country. People are comfortable enough with nature to allow graves to dwell within rice patties, even. In the city, however, Kunstler would be proud. Trees tower alongside busy streets, looming over drivers, riders, and walkers to create an umbrella of shade and beauty. These trees perhaps fulfill Kunstler's four arborous requirements, with the addition of very slightly alleviating the pollution problem in Vietnam.
And on this final note, I will one-up Kunstler... Sidewalks in Vietnam aren't only constructed for people; modes of transportation want in on the action too! See below:
