JAEGI

How do we create a new streetscape that embraces the heterogeneity of the context ? This was one of the challenges we faced when we were invited to design JAEGI in 2018 . The eight sites are situated in the heart of Seoul, with Korea University within walking distance the project aimed to address the needs of young professionals and students. The unfavourable conditions of each individual site led to an alliance between the eight owners. By joining forces, the project gained new potential: a stronger sense of community and a coherent street profile. A new building type emerged: coupled buildings, one of the first of it's kind in Korea. From an early stage, a 'sharing' approach was developed: sharing the street, sharing program, sharing the design expression and materiality, all while keeping their individuality through unique terraces and different room types. The small studios are compensated for by a multitude of large common spaces that promote interaction and social activities. One of the main goals was to attain a lively street that can be the nucleus of a community. The ground floor offers attractive public areas suitable for a cafe, bakery, library or restaurants. The brick facade contributes to the cosy/friendly atmosphere of the street, while the slight change in colour gives a harmonious rhythm. The vivid landscape of roofs and terraces adds a playful touch.

Project: Student housing
Size: 8 buildings
Location: Seoul, South Korea
Client: 8 individual owners
Collaborators: Urban Agency, SOOMOK Design Group
Type: Commission
Status: Ongoing, Completion 2020Team: Heechan Park, Henning Stüben, Minjae Kwon, Rosa Fuentes Fernandez, Scott Grbavac, Gaspar Cánepa, Narcisa Ionita, Doohyeong Lee, Ekhan Lee, Zoe Tzika, Anna Yancheva