Type 1 ancient house, Mr. Cao Van Toan's house, Son Tay ward

Mr. Cao Van Toan's ancient house (the family of Mrs. Bach Thi Na) is located in Giua hamlet, Duong Lam residential group, Son Tay ward, Hanoi city. It is one of the typical architectural works of Duong Lam Ancient Village – a land rich in historical and cultural traditions of the Doai region. Built in the 18th century, more than three centuries old and ranked as a type 1 ancient house, the house is one of the typical valuable works in the Duong Lam ancient village relic complex.

The house has a scale of five compartments and two side wings, bearing the characteristics of traditional residential architecture in the Northern Delta. The roof is covered with old ri tiles, the ridge is plain, and the two ends are embossed with dau dinh shapes, creating a simple yet refined highlight. In particular, the building has retained almost intact its original architectural form, reflecting the family generations' awareness of preserving heritage.

The house's outstanding value is also shown through the carving art on its wooden structural system. Details such as brackets, trusses, and tie beams are carved in relief with soft, exquisite spiral and leaf patterns. These decorative lines not only enhance the aesthetic value of the building but also demonstrate the talent, skill, and creativity of traditional craftsmen.

The interior space is arranged according to traditional architecture, with the central compartment used for ancestor worship, expressing the nation's moral principle of 'remembering the source when drinking water.' The side compartments are used for daily activities, receiving guests, and family life. Through its spatial organization, furniture arrangement, and maintenance of traditional customs and rituals, the house clearly reflects the lifestyle, family traditions, and culture of Vietnamese families in the former Northern Delta countryside.

Through many generations, Mr. Cao Van Toan's ancient house has still been used as a place of ancestor worship and for maintaining traditional rituals. It is not only a space for spiritual activities but also a place that connects family members, preserves traditions, and passes on good cultural values to future generations.

With its outstanding historical, architectural, and artistic values, Mr. Cao Van Toan's ancient house was recognized by the People's Committee of Ha Tay Province under Decision No. 1223/QD-UBND dated May 13, 2008. This recognition affirms the value of the building within the overall heritage of Duong Lam Ancient Village and contributes to raising community awareness of heritage preservation.

Today, Mr. Cao Van Toan's ancient house is a meaningful sightseeing stop on the journey to explore Duong Lam Ancient Village.