Brian Jeffrey
A uniquely designed rotating house located in Dak Lak has been attracting many visitors intrigued by its innovative architecture and functionality. Constructed by local resident Pham The Dan, this house can effortlessly rotate a full 360 degrees on its axis.
Situated on a hill in the Hoa Hiep Commune of Cu Kuin District (Dak Lak Province), this unassuming wooden house has gained considerable attention for its extraordinary rotation feature. By unlocking the four corner latches, the house can completely turn around a central axis.
The house belongs to Pham The Dan, a 47-year-old resident who originally conceptualized the idea in 2005. After relocating to this elevated site, he experienced challenges with wind and rain affecting his wooden home. This inspired him to create the rotating house as a protective measure.
“My intention was to make the house adaptable to shifting wind and rainfall, thereby minimizing damage. Plus, it gives me the ability to enjoy various viewpoints,” Dan shared.
He started by drafting the design, constructing a robust reinforced concrete base capable of supporting around 30 tons, onto which he built the house.
The house itself is raised approximately 50 cm above the concrete base. With a background in mechanical repair, Dan expertly implemented a rotating mechanism, which includes a motor, gearbox, bearings, sprockets, and chains integrated into the base.
Next, he assembled a steel frame, added wall panels, and topped it with a corrugated metal roof.
“The rotation is facilitated through a robust iron system attached to the concrete base. My design uses a sprocket system that can be powered by an electric motor, and manual options are available in case of a power failure,” Dan elaborated.
After six months of hard work, Dan completed a two-room house weighing around 15 tons, capable of rotating in either direction.
When he first showcased the house to friends and family, they were skeptical about its ability to rotate. Many thought it was a joke—until they witnessed it in action.
“When the house started to move, everyone was astonished. Some thought it was an earthquake and rushed out, panicking,” Dan reminisced.
Its distinctive nature has intrigued many who wish to experience it firsthand and understand its operation. Yet, Dan regards this house as the culmination of his personal efforts and is not yet ready to disclose the details publicly.
Nearly two decades later, the house remains fully functional, with his eldest son currently residing in it. Dan employs four corner locks to stabilize the structure.
Once these locks are disengaged, even an average person can easily push and turn the house to the desired orientation.
Bach Dinh Bac, the Vice Chairman of Hoa Hiep Commune, confirmed its uniqueness: “This rotating house, created by Mr. Pham The Dan, is the only one of its kind in our commune. Although locals visit out of curiosity, Mr. Dan built it primarily for his personal use and has not widely marketed it, so not many are aware of it.”
