Origin: Europe and the US, roughly the 1920s to 1930s, then spreading worldwide.
The International Style took shape in Europe and the United States in roughly the 1920s and 1930s, then spread across the world. Its principles are pure geometric volumes, flat roofs, plain white walls, continuous ribbon windows and no superfluous ornament. Concrete or steel frames allow free facades and open plans.
In Vietnam it is the foundation of most modern townhouses. In humid coastal regions flat roofs need multi-layer waterproofing, proper falls and drain outlets sized for storm rain. Large white walls need stain- and mould-resistant paint, and west-facing ribbon windows should have canopies or louvres to reduce heat and driving rain.
