BCHO architects: louis vuitton, seoul

‘louis vuitton maison’ by BSCH architects, seoul, korea all images courtesy of BSCH architects

korean-based firm BSCH architects has sent us images of their proposal for the ‘louis vuitton maison’ flagship store located in seoul, korea. the urban character of the site is rigid and largely opaque with many other fashion stores. the neighboring buildings do not allow any pedestrians to glimpse into the secluded structures. the focus of this project is to use the maximum allowed area into a square building form with a glass facade that will face the city with an oscillating presence. 

the form of the exterior is a series of continuous concave and convex curvatures with slight angles that diffracts light creating consistently changing distortions. the cinematographic perspectives will highlight the louis vuitton collection and the ever rotating line of fashion, art, and travel items. these differing geometries generate faceted reflections, which enable viewers, both inside and outside the building to see continually moving pictures of the products, the city and themselves. the subtle and permeable stripes creates a sense of brand identification for the luxury line.

main facade

natural light is diffused through the stainless steel mesh stripes within a triple glazing system. the interiors are integrated with the stepped platforms, allowing the users of the building to have various changing views of the urban context. two concrete masses provide enclaves for entry and rest with a small public park. the building is punctured with a light and air tunnel, green tunnel, to allow natural ventilation and providing the retail spaces a unique ambiance for customers.

aerial showing roof garden

entrance + exhibition space

green tunnel

north elevation

section

section

model of proposal in context

sectional model showing interior spaces

distorted glass model

detail of facade