New York City based architectural practice Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates (KPF) recently set its sights once again on Seoul. The mission is the Parkside Seoul a mixed-use neighborhood, seeking to improve citizen and visitor well-being through an increased number of residences, hotels, shops, and more. KPF describes joy as the project’s No. 1 priority.
The 5.2-million-square-foot neighborhood will extend and complement Yongsan Park next door, using the traditional Korean model of conjoining residential buildings with a core central area. It will sit just north of the Han River, east of Yongsan Park, and west of Mount Namsan.
According to KPF, the neighborhood seeks to enhance life in the city. The expansive retail space will include a pedestrian-only thoroughfare lined with greenery while allowing access to Yongsan Park. Integrated nature is a key element of the development, as it pays homage to the park. Office spaces and residences will fill the towers while retail establishments dot the streets below.
The neighborhood will emphasize the pedestrian experience with pathways weaving throughout. All the buildings, residential and commercial, will have intentionally chosen textures, shapes, colors, and materiality. Varying building heights create layering that promotes active and exciting street life.
KPF’s goal is to create a Seoul neighborhood that provides a timeless, intimate feel that pays respect to the natural settings of Yongsan Park and the Han River, as well as existing nearby structures. KPF unveiled plans for the Parkside Seoul neighborhood in late December 2022, but more details have yet to follow.
For more architecture news, see Chwihoga House by 100A Associates.