site area : 176.10 ㎡
GFA : 349.440 ㎡
Building Area : 91.10 ㎡
Title
Seoul National University College of Medicine Student Union Building Construction
Type
Remodeling
Location
1 Gwanak-ro Gwanak-gu Seoul Korea
summary
Seoul National University College of Medicine Student Union Building Project
This project involved the construction of a new two-story above-ground facility, seamlessly connected to the existing structure, to serve as the Student Union Building for the College of Medicine at Seoul National University.
The design emphasizes modern functionality and accessibility, incorporating open circulation spaces, wide stairways, and expansive glass façades that allow abundant natural light to permeate the interiors.
Durable aluminum composite panels were used for the exterior cladding, ensuring a sleek, contemporary appearance while providing weather resistance and low maintenance.
The building accommodates various student amenities, including dining areas, meeting rooms, and communal spaces, fostering interaction and collaboration among students.
Strategically placed terraces and open-air zones further enhance the sense of openness, while the architectural integration with the existing facility creates a cohesive campus environment.
Ground Floor Architectural Design Overview
From an architectural perspective, the first floor of the building has been designed with a strong emphasis on openness, accessibility, and functional flow.
A continuous glass façade provides transparency, visually connecting the interior dining and communal spaces with the exterior courtyard while maximizing natural light penetration.
The elevated canopy and extended overhang offer both weather protection and a sense of welcoming entry, guiding visitors toward the interior.
An integrated ramp alongside the main walkway ensures universal accessibility, complying with barrier-free design principles.
The use of durable materials such as aluminum composite cladding and tempered glass not only contributes to a sleek, modern aesthetic but also ensures longevity and low maintenance.
The placement of the external staircase creates a dynamic vertical connection between floors without interrupting the open ground-level circulation, supporting both functional efficiency and visual appeal.
Facade and Circulation Design with Integrated Parking
The building’s front elevation highlights a clean, modern aesthetic achieved through the use of aluminum composite panels, which provide a sleek appearance while offering durability, weather resistance, and low maintenance.
An exposed exterior staircase serves as both a functional and architectural element, creating a bold linear feature that connects multiple floors while enhancing the building’s visual rhythm.
The open-riser stair design allows light and air to flow through, reducing visual bulk and complementing the structure’s overall transparency and openness.
Beneath the staircase and adjacent to the main entrance, a covered parking zone has been incorporated, maximizing site efficiency and providing convenient vehicular access.
The combination of the elevated canopy, robust cladding materials, and well-defined circulation paths reflects a design approach that balances practicality with contemporary architectural expression.
Interior Design
Interior Design Summary
The interior design emphasizes warmth, sophistication, and functional zoning, creating a welcoming environment for both casual and formal gatherings.
A combination of natural wood finishes, warm-toned lighting, and earthy materials establishes a comfortable yet refined atmosphere.
The open-plan layout, divided subtly by shelving units and glass partitions, allows visual continuity while providing distinct dining zones for privacy and variety.
Brick accent walls, paired with modern black metal framing, introduce an industrial-chic touch, complementing the wood textures and neutral tile flooring.
Large windows maximize natural light during the day, enhancing spatial openness and connecting the interior to the outdoor environment.
Furniture selection balances comfort with durability, using solid wooden tables and ergonomically designed chairs suitable for long-term use in high-traffic areas.
Overall, the design integrates aesthetic appeal with practical considerations, supporting both dining efficiency and an inviting user experience.
