Heatherwick Studio, a UK architecture firm, has unveiled the new proposed appearance of Seoul’s Hanwha Galleria shopping centre. 

The area, near the Han River, has two buildings shaped to “resemble rippled hourglasses”. While a street divides the two buildings, there is seamless underground connnectivity.

According to the brand, the twins’ shapes combine to frame the vista of the river as seen through and between the buildings. There is a spacious and light-filled entrance, which leads to the two planted plazas on the ground floor.

The open mid-level garden boasts cafes, restaurants and stores while the outdoor spaces feature native plants and landscaping, which aims to provide natural interest throughout the year

“Traditionally, department stores are quite inward facing, they feel closed off to the surrounding streets,” said Neil Hubbard, partner at Heatherwick Studio. 

“But here we have an important intersection in Apgujeong with two buildings, east and west, that felt like an opportunity to bring people together. Combined with Hanwha’s ambition to bring more activity to the buildings, we wanted to provide a strong overall silhouette that creates a gateway, but also gives Seoulites new garden-like spaces to meet, shop and enjoy their city.”

The two buildings also have a double-layer skin that promotes sustainability while serving as a canvas for art shows and events. There is also a crystalline glass facade that will light up when used as a backdrop for projections.

The design was completed in collaboration with the local firm Haeahn Architecture.