After 750 days of planning and execution, The Dewey Schools Ocean Park, a “sea-view” school with an investment of up to 400 billion VND, will officially welcome its first generation of pioneering students this August. Before this significant milestone, let’s hear from the “creators” of this world-class project as they recount the journey from “blueprint to reality.”
Architectural language reflects educational vision
The Japanese investor, Toshin Development, places a high value on meticulousness, care, and seriousness in their school projects for The Dewey Schools. Mr. Osada Shinsuke, Head of Construction Design at Toshin Development, shared: “During the design phase, we proposed an efficient traffic solution to reduce internal congestion when parents pick up and drop off students. The concept of rational and streamlined facility layout to minimize waste was also thoroughly discussed. Moreover, for the exterior landscape design, we collaborated with design units to select an exterior design with a special meaning.”
From the outside, Dewey Ocean Park stands out with its large, arc-shaped facade, symbolizing open arms welcoming students.
Explaining the special significance of this design, Mr. Osada Shinsuke shared: “The Dewey Schools Ocean Park is designed with a “student-centered” philosophy. From the lush green courtyard to the football field, each space allows students to feel the fresh and airy breeze, connecting with nature and inspiring learning. Notably, the basement playground is a place where students can enjoy themselves even on rainy days. I believe that the major difference of Dewey Ocean Park lies not only in its high-quality educational system, which has already established its position, but also in its seriously invested and suitably researched facilities, creating a school where students can actively engage and develop.”
When challenges become a catalyst for success
Recalling the early days of the design implementation phase, Mr. Osada Shinsuke proudly shared: “The Dewey Ocean Park project began its design phase in 2021, during the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, and it became the first project where we experienced exchanging design ideas through online platforms. During these online interactions, we faced challenges in communication, particularly in conveying ideas and finalizing designs. To address these issues, we realized the most important aspect was that information needed to be conveyed in a detailed and careful manner, with timely feedback. All parties involved had to put themselves in each other’s shoes to understand and collaborate wholeheartedly.”
For the team directly involved in the construction, Mr. Pham Ngoc Truong, Project Manager at Central Construction Corporation, also shared about the challenges encountered during the construction process: “The Central team worked tirelessly day and night, despite facing numerous technical challenges and harsh weather conditions. Nevertheless, we remained committed to prioritizing quality and safety above all.”
“We also extend our heartfelt gratitude to Toshin Development, the design team led by architect Hoang Thuc Hao, and the Artelia project management consulting team. Throughout the project, all parties closely coordinated with the general contractor to resolve obstacles and challenges, as well as provide timely consultations for the necessary construction methods – through regular meetings, progress reports, negotiations, and issue resolution when necessary. The understanding, trust, and willingness to support each other among all involved parties were crucial factors in ensuring the successful completion of the project,” expressed Mr. Ngoc Truong.
Dewey Ocean Park – Where dreams begin
Preparations for the first school year at Dewey Ocean Park are being swiftly carried out. As this significant milestone approaches, those directly involved in creating the school are filled with emotions and thoughts. “Dewey Ocean Park was built with the dedication, hands, and minds of many people. We hope that the school will be warmly received and cherished by students, parents, and the future teachers who will be teaching here,” shared Mr. Osada Shinsuke.
The Dewey Schools Ocean Park has been designed around five key elements: SAFETY – INNOVATION – OPENNESS – CONNECTIVITY – COMMUNITY. The school is a vivid embodiment of the strategic vision of the institution, aiming to build a strongly connected community. With its diverse facilities and amenities, such as a football field, the Aqua-Tots four-season swimming pool, a Makerspace, a gym, and a canteen, this will be a place where generations of students can fulfill their passion for learning and endless exploration.
