Towards maintaining Hanoi's sense of place

After recovering from the effects of decades of wars, Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, now faces a new struggle: the preservation of its ancient streets and traditional street life, its old buildings and its vernacular shop-houses. The city's unique built environment is in danger of being overwhelmed by massive changes brought about by globalization and economic reform or Doi Moi, which have resulted in improved living standards, high property values, increased wealth, and a growing population. What should be done to maintain Hanoi's unique sense of place? And how might regulations be developed to conserve and protect it