(in)visible inflatable pavilion by plastique fantastique pops up in the heart of seoul

‘TREES & TRACES’ emerges from the ground as a reflective bubble

In the heart of Seoul, adjacent to the venerable Joseon Dynasty palace, an inflatable structure by creative studio Plastique Fantastique emerges from the ground. The distinctive space embodies the essence of Songhyeon Dong’s rich history. The (in)visible pavilion, a temporal connector for the 4th Seoul Biennale of Architecture and Urbanism, offers contrasting perspectives—reflecting externally while revealing transparency within.

The artistic exploration led to the discovery of relics hidden beneath the soil during the April 2023 site visit, now showcased along the installation‘s earthen wall. An immersive soundscape mirrors the ancient pine forest, believed to have channeled energy towards the Gyeongbokgung palace. TREES & TRACES engages visitors on multiple sensory levels, encouraging exploration and contemplation of Songhyeon Green Plaza’s intricate history.

all images courtesy of Plastique Fantastique

the (in)visible pavilion immerses in captivating soundscapes

This installation, a fusion of futurism and archaism, transcends temporal boundaries, blurring the lines between past and present, reality and imagination. For TREES & TRACES, the design team employs a symphony of acoustic memories, visual perceptions, and tactile sensations, crafting a compelling narrative, immersing individuals in an immediate and mysterious encounter with the site’s profound heritage.

the inflatable structure emerges from the ground

the artistic exploration led to the discovery of relics hidden beneath the soil during the site visit

the temporary pavilion resembles an inflated balloon

relics found in the soil are now showcased along the installation’s earthen wall

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the structure offers contrasting perspectives, reflecting externally while revealing transparency within

plan drawing

section drawings

project info:

name: TREES & TRACES – An (in)visible pavilion

architect: Plastique Fantastique | @plastique.fantastique

lead designers: Marco Canevacci & Yena Young

design team: Pihla Pellinen, Sebastian Podesta, Lucas Sere Peltzer, Erick Montefort

curator: Sara Kim
assistant curator: Yong Jin Cho
landscape architecture: Young-sung Jeon
soundscape: Marco Barotti

soundscape assistant: Misha MacLaren

location: Seoul, Korea

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom