" It could be said that in the last half a century, Vietnamese architecture has left unfading hallmarks about an architecture of the war time; of the economic recession; of the open-door renovation period. Not to expect to write a book on the history of Vietnamese Architecture, the Vietnam Association of Architects wished to systematize, review sections of road that have been passed, achievements the various generations of architects have made for the Country in very special situations. There have been no great works nor large structures, the thoughts, ideas, initiatives & burning aspirations in their professional practices, however, will contribute more motivations for creative work of architects in the renovation period.... ( that ) this book will help us to generally understand Vietnam architecture, which is though humble, but respectful & prideful ". ( From an Introduction of the Edition ). Contents: Chapters: 1 - Historic stages. Some features of the architecture before the year of 1954. The periods of 1954 - 75; 1976 - 85; 1986: Urban construction planning. Works architecture. Rural construction. 2 - The Country & architectural works. Urban construction planning. Works construction. Housing. Agency offices. Schools. Hospitals. Cultural, memorial, belief-religious, tourism & trade service, industrial & national defense, transport works. Rural construction. 3 - Architecture profession in Vietnam. Road-opening role of Indochina Art College. Architect training after 1945. Architect practice & professional organization of architects. Architect practice. Architect competition. Vietnam Association of Architects. 4 - Half a century looking back. Effective devotion of Vietnamese architecture. Some main trends of creative study. Weakness & obstacles that need to be overcome. Vietnamese architecture viewed from the outside. Conclusion.