Snøhetta's concept promotes connection between government and citizens
The results for the competition to design the new city hall in Cheongju, South Korea have been announced. Snøhetta and local partner Tomoon Architects and Engineers have won the bid, with a concept that reflects the contest brief to provide an open and accessible facility to break down barriers between local government and city residents. As part of a regeneration project transforming the area, the complex is expected to become a new landmark while incorporating the existing hall, which has historic value.
The design vision was to create a structure representing integrated governance, with minimal distance between the government and its citizens. Through strategic spatial planning, accessible public spaces were included, with flexibility to allow for visitors and residents to gather for daily activities and special occasions. By creating space for collective living and learning, the public has access to cultural facilities, such as exhibition areas, a library, an auditorium, and amenities such as restaurants, cafes, childcare facilities and a post office.
Snøhetta sought to unite the currently scattered governmental offices into one holistic space, paying tribute to the heritage of the past while creating a modern workplace. The building forms an open frame around the former city hall, which will now serve as the entrance portal to the new complex. The administrative areas are now consolidated under one roof to ensure smooth operation and open communication between departments. The roof and façade are formed by gently folded curves to reference the shape of traditional Korean roofs, while a combination of translucent and opaque panels are intended to give the structure scale and rhythm.
The Cheongju New City Hall is due for completion in 2025.
Lucy Nordberg
TenderStream Head of Research
This competition was first published by TenderStream on 23.12.2019 here
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