The Philosophy of Zaha Hadid Embedded in ‘The H’ Han River
– Utilizing Curved Aluminum Panels with an Elegant Exterior
Hyundai Construction has partnered with the world-renowned architectural firm Zaha Hadid Architects in a bid to win the redevelopment contract for Hannam District 4, known as a major project in Seoul’s Hannam-dong. On the 19th, Hyundai Construction announced that it submitted a bid proposal to the redevelopment association of the Hannam District 4 the previous day, suggesting ‘The H Han River’ as the name of the complex. The name combines the high-end brand ‘The H’ with ‘Han River,’ a symbol of Seoul, reflecting the intent to create a landmark in the heart of the Han River.
The design of ‘The H Han River’ intends to incorporate the architectural philosophy of Zaha Hadid, a Pritzker Prize laureate. Known as the ‘Queen of Curves’ for her innovative designs that emphasize fluid beauty, Zaha Hadid is also famous for projects like the Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP).
In collaboration with Zaha Hadid Architects, Hyundai Construction has infused Hadid’s design philosophy into the plans. They boldly move away from traditional linear design to embody curves inspired by the flow of the Han River and the ridges of Namsan, proposing 88,000 curved aluminum panels.
These curved aluminum panels enable an elegant and unique exterior, differentiating themselves from the rigid designs of surrounding apartments, and help craft a symbolic landmark that decorates the riverside beautifully.
Additionally, Hyundai Construction has pledged to offer 100% premium views to residents. By maximizing units with Han River views and enhancing the scenery of Namsan and Yongsan Park, they plan to utilize a central plaza as a viewing element, promoting a lifestyle in harmony with nature. From the initial 51 buildings, they’ve reduced the count to 29, minimizing interference between units, and adopting a 45-degree rotated layout to boost openness and maximize the view, ensuring all households enjoy premium vistas of landmarks like the Han River, Namsan, and Yongsan Park.
For the 1,318 units of medium to large size, various terrace styles such as protruding terraces, open terraces, and pocket terraces will be implemented. Also proposed is a double sky bridge with a length of 300 meters along the riverside, the longest in the area. A 190-meter bridge connecting three buildings and a 110-meter bridge connecting two buildings will reflect Zaha Hadid’s philosophy accentuating curves.
Hyundai Construction plans to link Hannam District 4 with Hannam District 3’s ‘The H Hannam’ to establish a ‘The H Brand Town.’ By constructing a large-scale complex of about 8,000 households across Hannam-dong, they aim to solidify its status as a premium residential area and lead Korea’s luxury residential culture.
A Hyundai Construction representative stated, “For the first time in Korea’s multi-residential history, we’ve proposed a design that artistically expresses the beauty of curves in collaboration with Zaha Hadid Architects,” adding, “We will construct a new landmark along the Han River, harmoniously incorporating the curves of the river, the natural beauty of Namsan, and wide expanses of parkland.”