geomdan museum·library cultural hub in korea unfolds like a green ribbon

Geomdan Cultural Complex Unites Nature and Urban Design

ArchiWorkshop and Studio Akkerhuis collaborate on the Geomdan Museum·Library Cultural Complex integrating natural landscapes, urban design, and historical elements in Geomdan, South Korea. Positioned as a ‘green’ landmark, the complex aligns with the city’s aspirations to become a cultural and design hub in the northwestern metropolitan area, catering to industry, academia, and research.

Going beyond conventional museum functions, the facility serves a threefold purpose: as a regional logistical hub for 65 public libraries in Incheon Metropolitan City, a local center for preserving, researching, and exhibiting Geomdan New Town’s cultural assets, and a symbolic landmark blending nature and culture for public engagement. The complex, housing a library, museum, and educational center, prioritizes structural, energy, and logistical efficiency while maintaining distinct operational identities.

all images courtesy of ArchiWorkshop and Studio Akkerhuis

Museum·Library Cultural Complex acts as A ‘Living Bridge’

The proposal for the Geomdan Museum·Library Cultural Complex, conceptualized as a ‘living bridge,’ intricately connects eco-bridges with a green roof, contributing to the ecosystem and notionally tying together the surrounding mountains. The lower levels reflect a historical hamlet, creating a cultural and educational hub with diverse functional spaces. The ground level links historical elements with urban and natural landscapes, featuring an open-air exhibition space beneath the Eco-bridge that connects the park and city.

Acting as an urban fabric, the complex establishes a dynamic public space harmonizing the city and the park. The museum and library unfold in layers, with interconnected cores from the basement to the third floor. The ground floor, serving as a community hub, includes public facilities and a lively main piazza for events and social gatherings. The design by ArchiWorkshop and Studio Akkerhuis aims to guide visitors on a ‘museographic’ journey from the street to a serene lake promenade, fostering an inviting and participatory cultural experience in the library and museum.

the complex integrates natural landscapes and urban design, positioning itself as a ‘green’ landmark

the proposal, conceptualized as a ‘living bridge,’ intricately connects eco-bridges with a green roof

the lower levels reflect on history, creating a cultural and educational hub with diverse functional spaces

the design aims to guide visitors on a ‘museographic’ journey from the street to a serene lake promenade

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the Geomdan Museum-Library Cultural Complex seamlessly blends nature, history, and urban design

masterplan

project info:

name: Geomdan Museum·Library Cultural Complex

architect: ArchiWorkshop | @archiworkshop_official / Studio Akkerhuis | @studioakkerhuis

design team: Hee-Jun Sim, Su-Jeong Park, Bart Akkerhuis
location: InCheon, South Korea

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edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom