Beyond opposites : an urban initiative in Seoul

Abstract

The thesis began with the understanding of urban, cultural, and social conditions of Seoul. The choice of the existing bridge as the point of departure has meaning in two layers. layer one: the need for more space in the city of Seoul has initiated intense discussions on alternative building sites - underground cities. The choice of the bridge was made as yet another possible alternative. layer two: Seoul, like any other city, is full of urban attempts and failures. These mistakes and scars are taken as a point of departure, not as a point of destruction and restart. These structures have become our second nature, man-made nature. The existing bridge is one of the possible place for a new beginning. The program layers for the thesis began on the basis of disparities harmonies, and, chaos-order imbedded in Seoul. layer one : The need for 24 hour zone to accommodate various life styles in the mega city(not a single district is open for 24 hours). The need for a place where disappearing values, traditions, and rituals can be practiced(religious and performance facility). layer two: The need for experimentation and accentuation of what is, so that we become aware. The need for a place of exposure and awareness, where implicit but wide spread practices become explicit.