The South Korean economy is dominated by few mega companies. They have been critical to the development of the country in the past forty years, but the new economy demands smaller and more creative companies to innovate. The Start-up Hub project attempts to accommodate a new exciting working space for new startup companies in an old and oppressive government building in the city of Seoul.
The intention is to generate spaces that allow synergies between individuals and young companies and to create the innovative atmosphere required for creative work.
In the interior space, two curved plazas are inserted connecting various floors in an attempt to create smooth connections between the working, community, and relaxation areas. These plazas, at the same time, acts as a social meeting point allowing informal meetings, lectures and other activities. The lower plaza connects the entrance lobby with the library and the freelancing working spaces. The upper plaza connects the convention center with the roof garden.
On the exterior, a new skin is proposed on the west façade. This skin will increase the thermal performance of the existing façade while defining its new image. The new façade pretends to stretch the limits of lightness utilizing ETFE and atensile structure in contrast with the heaviness of the existing concrete walls.
