Acclaimed firm mass studies has just shared images with us of their new 'songwon art space' in seoul, korea, situated on a challengingly irregular site with a significant transverse grade change and a slender angle where two roads converge. the footprint came about by this perimeter restriction and the neighboring heritage house informed the height of the structure as it could not block sunshine to the protected site. the result is a mostly subterranean building with exhibition spaces and parking in the basement levels where light can be more easily controlled and a commercial restaurant in the top two levels where the sun is fully invited. the underground skeleton is made up of a customized pilotis system that raises the building off the ground allowing the necessary dimensions for cars while creating an area for the entrance. the edifice above ground in contrast is made up of a solid reinforced concrete shell and a dramatically sloping translucent roof. along the sharp corner of the site, a two windows unexpectedly reveal the secret of the building, extending views 11 meters upwards through the public space and 8 meters downwards through the exhibit functions, and suddenly the scope of the project is revealed as the visitor finds themselves floating in the middle.
The glass canopy is composed of a triple-glazed system with embedded expanded steel mesh that helps filter direct light. this same louver mechanism is applied into the display areas, not to filter but rather to manipulate light. exposed subtle materials were used throughout the project, white and polished surfaces provide a neutral backdrop for any art exhibit and rough untreated textures and colors define the social programmatic elements. the exterior metal panels were manufactured by a local steel manufacturer who supports the songwon culture foundation and whose technologies make it possible to create affordable sheets of glavanized steel, roll painted with any color and texture to appear as another material.