Heatherwick Studio proposes new public waterfront site for Seoul
By David Malone, Managing Editor
A consortium led by Hanwha Group, HDC Group, and Hana Financial Investment, featuring design firms Benoy, Populous, dA Architecture Group, and NOW Architects, has been named the preferred bidder to develop the Jamsil Sports-MICE Complex around Seoul’s Olympic Stadium.
As part of the design submission, Heatherwick Studio has designed a new open and public space the waterfront. The design will link the wider scheme with the Han River and promote the ideas of community spirit, activity, equality, play, and togetherness.
Dubbed The Lead, the design concept envisions a flowing, multi-level pier. A walkable roof scape will feature winding trails that move across, around, and over water gardens, play areas, observation points, a flexible event space and auditorium, and a marina for water taxis and leisure craft.
“At the heart of our project is the idea of playful togetherness. We want this to be a refreshing and dynamic new civic space for the city of Seoul where people come to laugh, explore and connect. Somewhere joyful and restorative for everyone,” said Stuart Wood, Partner and Group Leader at Heatherwick Studio, in a release.