A peek inside one of Hanoi's grand colonial villas

Hanoi’s streets are packed with incredible French colonial era villas in various states of disrepair. They have become one of the city’s most interesting features to travellers. And young local entrepreneurs are bringing them to life with boutiques, cafes and small shops.

The 1930 villa on Chan Cam St is especially popular with photographers and travellers seeking out some uniquely Hanoi atmosphere.

It’s usually assumed that large French colonial buildings were built and lived in by the French. Often that’s not the case. Many of the most extravagant villas in Saigon and Hanoi were built by wealthy Vietnamese families who prospered in the colonial era.

Photo: Supplied  The 1930s colonial villa in Chan Cam St, Hanoi - and the local family that built it.

Photo: Mark Bowyer Loading T Cafe, Hanoi

Photo: Mark Bowyer Son from Hien Van Ceramics, Hanoi

Photo: Mark Bowyer Hien Van Ceramics, Hanoi

Many of these buildings were confiscated and divided up under communist rule after 1954. It’s common for them to now have many owners.

I got a look at some old photos of the building and its original inhabitants (see above) during a recent visit.

A highlight of the visit was meeting Son, a young guy who, together with his father is creating beautiful traditional ceramics in Bac Ninh outside Hanoi and selling here at their shop, Hien Van. You can meet Son and see his wares in the video above.

For more independent travel info and the best things to see and do and eat and drink in Hanoi, check our handpicked guide here.

Disclosure
Rusty Compass has no commercial relationship with any of the businesses listed in this piece.