Sunday 12 October 2008

EPPF (Eunpyeong Mixed-use Development), Seoul, South Korea

Connecting North and South Eunpyeong with a vibrant 24/7 hub 

The Eunpyeong Mixed-use Development Seoul, Korea (EPPF) located near Seoul, South Korea offers the surrounding residents 480,000 m2 of entertainment, shopping, home and office space. Located to the northeast of Seoul, Eunpyeong is served by a vast subway network, and part of the Korean governments dedication to regenerating and developing this area. Surrounded by mountains on the east and westthe team behind the development Scott Sarver, Dae-Hong Minn and Hobum Lee wanted to connect the north and south of this development.

With an eight-story retail and entertainment multiplex at the heart of the development, the design is sculptural, with the bow shaped building appearing to drift across the landscape and at night the giant glass structure glows with a luminous exhibition of  light. Attached to the discernable northwest corner is a 200 room hotel and 31 story pioneering office tower, with a twisting form inspired by traditional Korean pottery. At the southern point are three residential towers, ranging from 25 to 30 stories in height. A meandering stream entwines itself into the sculptural mould of the retail complex above, to fashion a dynamic space for this vibrant 24/7 transit hub.

With an extremely contemporary edge and reveling in traditional Korean culture, the development is a seamless fusion of old and new. The high regard for nature and significance of the mountains permeates the elaborate design, and in addition the buildings appearance is driven by old Korean styling. In contrast the luminous exhibition emanating from the multiplex is a direct reference to the colorful traditional festivals of the area.

Time-honoured customs combined with a twist of modern day chic gives the project an awakening ambiance.

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