Gwanghwamun Seafood: Blending Past and Present in a Modern Restaurant Design

Preserving History and Embracing Modernity

The designers of Gwanghwamun Seafood have successfully created a unique and captivating restaurant design by seamlessly blending the past with the present. In order to ascertain the appearance of the building from the past, the designers first stripped it down before designing. They used the wooden gable structure and the walls used as the interior and exterior structural material found from stripping the building down as design elements for representing the past. This meticulous attention to detail and preservation of historical elements sets Gwanghwamun Seafood apart from other restaurant designs.

With a focus on achieving harmony between the past and the present, Gwanghwamun Seafood stands as a testament to the designers' creativity and vision. The combination of the time-honored wooden gable structure and the modern touches creates a captivating atmosphere that transports diners to a different era while still providing all the comforts and conveniences of a contemporary restaurant.

Utilizing materials such as wood flooring, cement, brick, epoxy, paint, old wood, and glass, the designers have successfully brought their vision to life. The result is a stunning seafood restaurant that not only pays homage to the past but also embraces the future.

The building itself is a work of art, with the exterior facade designed in two halves to give the illusion of a two-story building. The top half of the divided facade features windows of various forms, allowing for ample natural light and providing a glimpse of the fish formations inside the space. This playful and eye-catching design element adds to the overall charm and uniqueness of Gwanghwamun Seafood.

The location of Gwanghwamun Seafood in Jeong-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul further enhances its appeal. The rich history and cultural significance of the area make it the perfect setting for a restaurant that celebrates the past while embracing the future.

Despite the challenges faced during the construction process, including the structural instability of the old building, the designers persevered and successfully transformed Gwanghwamun Seafood into a stunning and functional space. Their dedication to preserving history and creating a harmonious blend of past and present is evident in every aspect of the design.

Gwanghwamun Seafood has been recognized for its outstanding design with the Bronze A' Design Award in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category in 2019. This prestigious award is a testament to the creativity, resourcefulness, and technical skills demonstrated by the designers.

In conclusion, Gwanghwamun Seafood is a shining example of how a thoughtful and innovative design can transform a space and create a truly unique dining experience. By preserving the time of the 1940s and blending it with modernity, the designers have created a restaurant that not only pays homage to the past but also embraces the future. Gwanghwamun Seafood stands as a testament to the power of design to create harmony and captivate the senses.