Building Area : 339,365 m2

Location : Huam-Dong, Seoul, South Korea

[Description]

Artificial Photosynthesis as a Solution for Seoul:

In addressing the environmental challenges faced by Seoul, a novel approach involves augmenting the city’s capacity for photosynthesis. Natural plant photosynthesis is essential for absorbing carbon dioxide and replenishing urban air with oxygen. However, the scarcity of green spaces in the densely built city center limits this natural process. The proposed remedy is to enhance areas for artificial photosynthesis, thereby creating structures that support plant growth atop existing buildings. Artificial photosynthesis is a synthetic process replicating the natural conversion of sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide into carbohydrates and oxygen. This method not only produces oxygen but also yields valuable byproducts, such as hydrogen and high-value compounds, which can be utilized or stored.

Building Layout Concept:

A loop-type building design is envisioned to float above the cityscape, integrating artificial photosynthetic systems on its roof. This allows for the production and release of oxygen at altitude, minimizing interference with the current urban layout.

Site Selection:

The chosen site for this pioneering project is the Huam-Dong area, which is emblematic of Seoul’s rapid and environmentally inconsiderate development. Characterized by a dense assembly of low-rise structures and a notable deficit of greenery, this locale is ideal for superimposing an artificial photosynthesis zone over the city without disrupting the extant urban fabric.

Section Concept:

The building’s framework champions the use of mass timber, a sustainable material alternative that reduces carbon footprint. The rooftop is dedicated to artificial photosynthetic machinery and panels that generate and gather oxygen, hydrogen, and other valuable compounds. These are stored in containers at the roof’s perimeter, while oxygen is channeled through pipes within the façade, diffusing into the city. Internally, the building is organized to foster both natural photosynthesis and the nurturing, marketing, and warehousing of plant life.

Plan Concept:

For operational efficacy, the plant cultivation area utilizes a modular system, uniform in width but varying in length. This space is segmented into natural park zones and agricultural sectors—dedicated to crops like fruits, grains, and vegetables—with interspersed miniature structures. These facilities accommodate diverse functions: a produce market, information center, food and beverage outlets, core building services, storage for crops, and an office for crop sales.

[Initial Sketch]

Designed by KIM MIN JAE