html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40/loose.dtd" Heatherwick Studio has remodeled the Coex Convention Centre with "a fortress-like façade" in Seoul, South Korea. Heatherwick Studio was selected in a competition to redesign the appearance and function of Seoul's Coex Convention Center. The project offers a chance to revitalize one of South Korea's most well-known conference and exposition locations.The design, which was created in partnership with the Korea International Trade Association (KITA), will turn the existing generic glass building into a gathering spot that captures Seoul's dynamic energy. At the moment, Coex is 350 meters long and has a generally nondescript front that does not convey the building's significance as a national center for innovation, trade, and culture. "Cabinet of Curiosities"The conference center is transformed into a place to explore and a cause to visit the region even when not attending a formal event thanks to the studio's winning design, which presents a daring concept based on the notion of a "Cabinet of Curiosities." Modular "boxes" of various sizes are stacked along the perimeter of the design, creating dynamic areas for conferences, public events, and exhibitions. The goal is to maximize the reuse of materials in order to produce a new front that departs from the current structure's fortress-like aspect and is open, captivating, and unmissable. "Ironically for places that bring people together, most conventions centres feel imposing and uninviting and are often devoid of public activity," said Stuart Wood, Executive Partner and Group Leader at Heatherwick studio."Our design will radically reinvent Coex to become a new cultural destination for the city of Seoul that attracts both locals and visitors alike," Wood added.The "display case" design, which is unique and varied, is a real depiction of Seoul's creative potential and offers countless opportunities to arrange art, performance, food, entertainment, and nature. The studio's goal is for Coex to develop into an alluring location that is vibrant, open, and constantly culturally relevant. More than conventions Beyond changing the building's appearance, the renovation seeks to make it blend in with the neighborhood more naturally. The ground floor will be transformed into a public area with a variety of activities to entice both tourists and residents to stay and explore. The Gangnam community will have a place to congregate whether or not they are attending an event thanks to the new public realm's connection to the nearby park. In addition to enabling public access to a sky garden and viewing deck with sweeping views of Seoul and the Han River, the higher floors will also have new indoor and outdoor areas that will support official functions. Even when there aren't any significant events happening at the location, the experience is still meant to be thrilling and relevant. Sustainability at the core of the projectA significant dedication to sustainability is incorporated into the studio's plan, guaranteeing that Coex would not only meet but surpass future environmental norms.These features—maximizing material reuse, boosting energy efficiency, enhancing interior and outdoor environmental comfort, and promoting tourists' and residents' general well-being—are given top priority in the project. The project, which is expected to be completed in 2029, will add to the studio's expanding portfolio in South Korea, which already includes a new plan for Hanwha Galleria in the Gangnam region and the reimagining of Nodeul Island on the Han River.Heatherwick Studio revealed plans for the transformation of South Miami’s Sunset Place with "permeable buildings" in Florida, United States. In addition, Thomas Heatherwick was appointed as the General Director of the 5th Seoul Biennale of Architecture and Urbanism, which will take place from 1 September to 31 October 2025. The 2025 program will explore "how to make buildings and cities radically more joyful and engaging," responding to Thomas Heatherwick's Humanise Campaign and drawing on the city's ambition for a human-centered and climate-friendly future. All renderings © Devisual.> via Heatherwick Studio