The ‘Nodeul Global Art Island International Design Competition,’ aimed at creating cultural and artistic facilities along the Hangang River to represent Seoul, is officially commencing. The Seoul Metropolitan Government plans to receive design proposals from seven invited architects and finalize the design by May after a public presentation and review.
In February of last year, the government announced plans to enhance urban charm and competitiveness by creating new landmarks throughout Seoul. It introduced the concept of ‘Urban and Architectural Design Innovation’ and revealed plans to change administrative system by adopting a ‘design-first, project-plan-later’ approach to ensure artistic and symbolic qualities in public buildings. The first pilot project for this initiative is the Nodeul Island, located in the middle of the Hangang River.
The upcoming Nodeul Global Art Island will be designed based on a 119,114㎡ site, combining four spaces: ‘Aerial, Ground, Pedestal, and Riverside,’ according to the ‘Design Guidelines’ incorporating concepts and experiential conveyance. The Aerial section will feature an observation deck offering panoramic views of the river. The Ground section will utilize existing buildings to create a multifaceted cultural space, providing richer cultural experiences. The Pedestal section will offer multi-level waterfront viewing spaces adaptable to changes in the water level, while the Riverside section will feature a waterfront stage for cultural performances with a view of the sunset.
The architects participating in the Nodeul Island International Design Competition include Yerin Kang+SoAKorea Chanjoong KimThe System Lab, Korea, Unchung Na+Sorae YooNameless Architects, Korea, Seungsoo ShinDesign Group OZ Architects, Korea, Bjarke IngelsBIG, Denmark, Thomas HeatherwickUK, and Jürgen MayerJ. MAYER H. and Partners, Architects mbH, Germany. Their initial designs were unveiled at the Civic Forum held last November, where the architects presented their design concepts and future utilization plans.
In May of this year, seven design proposals containing the blueprint for Nodeul Global Art Island will be revealed through a public jury committee. The presentations and evaluation process by expert jury members, including around 400 citizen participants on-site and through live streaming on YouTube, will be shared. The lead architects will personally present their designs, which will be simultaneously interpreted in Korean and English. The operational committee for this international design competition consists of experts from various fields such as architecture, landscape, greenery, and culture, with Kang Byung-geun, the Chief Architect of Seoul, leading the committee.
The evaluation will examine whether the design effectively captures the unique characteristics of Nodeul Island in Seoul, whether it portrays a landmark plan where nature and art coexist, and whether it offers unique experiences exclusive to this location. The key is to have an innovative design that meets the criteria while encompassing the entirety of Nodeul Island.
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