Seoul Botanic Park

_hyogeun_

'The Virtues a Landmark in a City Should Have' - Seoul Botanic Park Greenhouse. At the starting point of the Magok district, there is a wetland created by a stream extending from the Han River. The vegetation growing on fertile land becomes a home for flora and fauna, providing us with a breath of fresh air in the stark cityscape. Positioned at this turning point, the 'Seoul Botanic Park Greenhouse' punctuates the city's identity and fully assumes its role as a representative landmark. The greenhouse, maintaining verdancy throughout the year, resembles a flower. Unlike the typical greenhouse with a high dome in the middle, its central part is concave with the edges rising high, naturally directing the gaze outwards. This prevents the large plants from being only planted in the center, allowing for the placement of various smaller plants around. The structure was built from the outside, allowing an experience of a wide space inside without a single pillar, except for the central part containing elevators and stairs. The experience of walking through the plants via a skywalk, without any obstructing structures, and being able to touch the leaves of tall plants or immerse in thoughts while viewing distant forests, is dramatically unique. The greenhouse, representing Magok district and marking a full stop on its identity, has taken considerable eco-friendly initiatives. Unlike other buildings that abuse the term 'eco-friendly', this one collects and purifies rainwater with its concave roof for landscaping purposes and uses ETFE on the roof structured like plant cells for 20% higher visible light transmittance than glass, which reduces maintenance costs and allows plants to grow better. The landmark greenhouse is thought to elicit differing opinions based on its sculptural elements. While some may appreciate its resemblance to a single flower and how it harmonizes with vast nature, others may find its one-dimensional building shape unappealing. However, regardless of the perspective, the building's impressive form, noticeable appearance, and its role as a model for eco-friendly construction ensure that the Seoul Botanic Park Greenhouse indeed possesses the virtues a landmark in a city should have. Architecture: Chanjoong Kim (@thesystemlab) Photo, Text: Hyogeun Shin (@_hyogeun_) #A_Space_That_Provides_a_Good_Experience. Seoul Botanic Park, Magok-dong-ro 161, Gangseo-gu, Seoul. Daily 09:30 - 17:00 (Closed on Mondays)