asymptote architecture unveils sejong center for performing arts

asymptote architecture unveils sejong center for performing arts
all images courtesy of asymptote architecture

enlivening the surrounding cityscape of sejong, south korea the new ‘center for the performing arts’ by asymptote architecture reflects the city’s growing cultural depth. the center features a multitude of different performance facilities within the one building, similar to the local spirit of the city’s contemporary urban life. the strong, bulbous form offers a welcoming approach with two entrances cutting the geometric facade along a diagonal axis, helping to maximize pedestrian flow across the site. the surrounding landscaping accentuates these public openings and also redefines the surrounding cityscape. a large plaza located in front of the main entrance offers views into the building’s interior through a tall glass facade, which creates a theatrical interplay between performers and the public. referencing the curving structures of nearby temples, the building is a modern reinterpretation of classical sejong architecture.

swooping upwards from the main entrance is a pleated sculptural interior that leads people through the atrium into the theater’s main foyer. spaces and platforms for observation feature throughout, providing options to both observe and be a part of the action. alongside the theater’s regular functions, the center also consists of a restaurant, media lab, lecture theater and an art gallery. environmentally efficient in design the intricately patterned louvers not only perform a thermal role, they act as a dramatic backdrop.

aerial rendering of the new sejong center for performing arts showing its integration with the surrounding landscape

the center features a multitude of different performance facilities within the one building

a pleated sculptural interior provides a dramatic backdrop for performances

 interior view of the asymptote architecture sejong center for performing arts

alongside the theater’s regular functions there also consists a restaurant, media lab, lecture theater and an art gallery

two entrances cutting the geometric facade along a diagonal axis

circulation through the building

nighttime view

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project info:

date: 2013
size: 15,000 sqm
location: sejong, south korea
architect: asymptote architecture
design partners: hani rashid, lise anne couture
project director: john guida
project team: danny abalos, bika rebek, du ho choi, hong min kim, matthew slattery, valentina soana, mu jung kang,
client: multifunctional administrative city construction agency (macca)
local architect: ega seoul
structural engineer: knippers helbig stuttgart- new york
environmental design: transsolar inc. new york