Interpolation: A Harmonious Blend of Art and Architecture

ChungYeon Won's Award-Winning Design Transforms Seoul's Seokchon Lake Park

Interpolation is inspired by the unique topographical character of Seokchon Lake Park. The park, located in Seoul City, is composed of a lake and two separate ring paths, one inner around the lake, and an outer peripheral following the city's roadways. The 4m elevation difference between the two walkways separates the two with limited connections. The project's main idea is to interpolate an organic passage through the densely landscaped sloped territory and connect the two paths.

Seoul City, recognizing the park's lack of cultural amenities, called for a design competition for an art museum within the park. ChungYeon Won's proposal emerged as the winning scheme, with construction expected to be completed by the end of 2021. The design aims to provide a visual mark as an entry into the park, connecting the discontinuous outer ring path and inner ring path, and introducing a new "gateway" to the park.

The design's unique properties lie in its organic form, designed with fully developable, rationalized surfaces. The building mass will be constructed with curved aluminum panels, and the deck structure, which meets the park landscape directly, will be finished with exposed concrete. The project also includes various sustainability measures from ground-source heat pumps to photovoltaic panels on the roof, meeting Seoul City's zero-energy code for public buildings.

The gallery's role in infusing art into the daily life of viewers is as crucial as exhibiting the artwork. Through the flowing connection of the interior and exterior spaces and the organic relationship between the spaces, the design aims to provide everyday artistic experiences to visitors and those passing by.

Despite the challenges posed by limited financial funding and a complicated approval process for public projects in Korea, the project intends to be an art piece by itself. It is going through rigorous geometrical studies for optimized fabrication and construction. The project received approval from the Park Commission, considered one of the most challenging processes for buildings located in public parks.

Interpolation is not just an art gallery; it's a testament to the power of innovative design and architecture. It's a unique blend of form and function, designed to enhance the cultural experience of Seoul's residents and visitors. As the project nears completion, anticipation builds for this new addition to Seokchon Lake Park, a symbol of Seoul's commitment to integrating art, design, and public spaces.