Comprehensive research was conducted on the existing infrastructure, local authority requirements, local practice and technology, and locally available materials prior to starting design.

Being temperate climate in nature Hanoi has summer and winter temperatures of 38 degree C and 12 degree C respectively. Heating is therefore designed for in addition to cooling. Heating and air conditioning is provided by a four pipe system (two pipes for heating and two for cooling). Cooling is provided by a centralized chilled water plant while heating is provided by steam boilers and calorifiers. Economy cycle controls are also incorporated to allow for ‘free’ cooling by outside air when conditions are suitable.

A complete water treatment system was designed, complete with tanks, filters and ultra violet treatment equipment.

Fire protection system was designed to Malaysian Standard, Hotel Operator’s Fire and Life Safety Guidelines and the local fire authority requirements.

Electrical systems were designed to comply with local voltage system, namely the European 380 V / 220 V system. The electrical supply system is backed by 200% generator set capacity as required by the Client in view of the state of the electrical infrastructure at the time. The hotel could therefore run continuously on generator supply if required.

The hotel was due to open in 1997. All mechanical & electrical systems were operational with pre opening training in progress, when it was decided to defer the opening of the hotel as a result of the economic crisis.