The city of Seoul in South Korea is set to embrace an architectural masterpiece, the Terrarium Cheong-Dam, promising to revolutionise urban living by seamlessly integrating greenery and public space into its design.
The first project of New York-based ODA Architecture in South Korea, the Terrarium Cheong-Dam emerged victorious in Seoul's pilot Creative Innovation Architectural Design Competition, impressing all with their commitment to expanding and enhancing the connection between the city landscape, its residents, and nature.
ODA collaborated with Miraein, Index Partners, and Heerim Architects, to design the Terrarium Cheong-Dam. More than just another skyscraper, ODA intends it to be a visionary approach to urban development.
Located in Cheongdam-dong, an area renowned for its high-end retail and picturesque views, the Terrarium Cheong-Dam aims to bridge neighbourhoods and commercial districts, becoming a vibrant connection point for multiple communities.
Renders of the tower. Image: ODA Architecture
The design pays homage to the neighbourhood's name, Chungsutgol, which translates to 'clear pond', recalling a clear, blue pond that existed before the neighbourhood's development, an essence of which has been artfully woven into the very fabric of the building's design.
“Seoul is another global city that’s realised the importance of expanding its public realm to create a more meaningful urban environment,” said Eran Chen, founder, owner, and design director of ODA, in a statement.
“For the tower’s podium, we want to bring the community a space that serves as both a respite from the streetscape and an accessible connection point to the city’s most desirable commercial and residential districts.”
Renders of the tower. Image: ODA Architecture
At the heart of this innovative project is the tower's podium, which boasts a two-storey structure that is entirely open and accessible to the public. It features multiple access points to a lush public park, complete with water features, sculpture gardens, and an indoor gallery space.
A unique tower
The Terrarium Cheong-Dam is set to soar to a maximum height of 200 metres, and feature prominently in Seoul's skyline.
Renders of the tower. Image: ODA Architecture
Spread across 45 floors, the tower will offer approximately 3,430 square metres of space featuring a blend of office spaces and high-end residences. To top it off, the tower will house a membership club in the basement and retail spaces at the podium level.
Located slightly above the halfway point of the building, the terrarium partially opens to the elements, offering an oasis of greenery and relaxation. Visitors will find seating areas, bushes, and trees overlooking the city, providing a picturesque and panoramic view.
Renders of the tower. Image: ODA Architecture
"We're also bringing this porous design to the building's greenery-filled terrarium, giving future tenants and residents another valuable space to engage with one another and enjoy nature," Eran Chen further explained.
“This Seoul supertall is just one example of how we can use design to expand the public realm, enliven cities and strengthen communities.”
The Terrarium Cheong-Dam. Image: ODA Architecture
Transforming Seoul's skyline
This year’s Creative Innovation Architectural Design Competition marked a significant turning point, with the city incentivising the private sector to build higher to incorporate meaningful public space into architectural projects.
The Seoul skyline. Image: ODA Architecture
While an official completion date remains undisclosed, ODA's website lists the Terrarium Cheong-Dam as "in progress", igniting anticipation for this addition to Seoul's beautiful skyline.
What sets this skyscraper apart from the numerous others in Seoul is an extraordinary 'terrarium' concept, as the name would suggest.