The Magok site is an ecotone, lingering on the brink of potential and straddling what is ‘old’ and ‘new.’  Magok has been situated geographically at the edge of Seoul and the Han River, while historically at the edge of Seoul’s agricultural society and remaining undeveloped land. 

As an expanded “edge” between what is ‘urban’ and what is ‘natural,’ Magok functions as a zone of transition.  It is a place where water and land meet in diverse ways.  Design of a waterfront unveils the Magok ‘ecotone,’  bringing to light the richness and distinctiveness of this interface. 

The design builds upon the steeped identity and tradition of rice farming in Korea and overlays emerging energy technologies that take advantage of significant site assets.  The rich interface of land and water is revealed by a profusion of both sharply-defined and subtle, graduated edges.  As a ‘space-between’ it begins to develop its own unique character.

Client: Seoul Housing Corporation / Seoul Metropolitan Government
Award: Merit Award