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The Namyeongdong Deagong Bunsil building, originally designed by Kim Swoo Geun in 1976, served as a site for imprisoning and torturing citizens during the dictatorial era. Given its troubling history, there have been various discussions on how to appropriately acknowledge this past and repurpose the building for public use. In response, we have developed a proposal in accordance with the competition guidelines that takes a more passive approach by preserving the original architectural elements while reimagining the space as an urban farm. To achieve this, we propose encircling the existing structure with a scaffold-like frame that creates a more open and airy atmosphere. The new temporary structure will provide a vertical, interwoven public space for Seoul residents that also gives better access to the surrounding area. Over time, as the farming industry takes root, new plant life will engulf the abandoned structure, creating an ever more neutral landscape.

—Vertical Archipelago

2019, Ideas Competition, Shortlisted

Seoul, Korea

Cultural / Adaptive Re-use

39,300 sf / 3,650 sqm

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