URBANTAINER extends the national theater company, korea

shipping container design studio URBANTAINER has extended the national theater company of korea’s (NTCK) main building with a modular metal addition. founded in 2009, URBANTAINER was originally conceived to fill a gap in seoul’s design scene, and gradually grew to become an integral part of the city’s emerging EDM culture. the extension makes for a slightly more refined project for the company, but the vibrant metal volumes of the new building are no less spirited than their other work. the new building’s various programs include a lobby, communal lounge, café and bar.

founded in 2009, URBANTAINER was originally conceived to fill a gap in seoul’s design scene
all images by kyungsub shin

considering the new extension’s functionality as a social space within the NTCK, URBANTAINER’s concept was based on integrating the new volume into the existing building structures by unifying the color and alignment of the building axis. while highlighting the modular form of the containers, the design is deliberately light, maintaining a balance with existing features and objects such as a former oil station and central grass square. a wooden terrace wraps around the front of the structure, while full length glass paneling allows a generous amount of light into the building.

URBANTAINER’s concept was based on integrating the new space into the existing building structures

the overall building was designed with two concepts in mind: ‘modulation’ and ‘flexibility’. using the modular character of the containers, a 12 meter long open space without interior columns was created. the unique structural benefits of the containers acted as the foundation for realizing the client’s vision for a wide and high space capable of holding large numbers of people. to create a flexible space moving partition walls were installed, creating a dynamic and multi-faceted event area. maximised with movable screens, projector-friendly walls and stage-like elements the extension becomes a theater in and of itself. even the bar counter consists of two sliding doors which can be moved according to space usage.

the overall building was designed with two concepts in mind: ‘module’ and ‘flexibility’

the bright inner atmosphere is created through the use of light colored walls, giving a warm impression and creating a conscious counterpoint to the bold red exterior. lacquered cement floors give the center a polished feel, and paired with industrial style school chairs create a space that is both formal and relaxed. all graphic elements were inspired by the NTCK symbol, a minimal white rainbow, strongly reflect the identity of the theater company.

other projects by URBANTAINER include a concept store for adidas in hongdae, seoul and the sports brand’s luminous korean flagship store in myeondong.

using the modular character of the containers, a 12 meter long open space without interior columns is created

the unique structural benefits of the containers acted as the foundation for realizing the client’s vision

the result is a wide and high space capable of holding large numbers of people

to create a flexible space, moving partition walls were installed creating a dynamic and multi-faceted event area

maximised with movable screens + projector-friendly walls the extension becomes a theater in and of itself

even the bar counter consists of two sliding doors which can be moved according to space usage

all interior graphics are inspired by the company’s logo

lacquered cement floors give the space a polished feel

the inner atmosphere creates a conscious counterpoint to the bold red exterior

project info:

design: urbantainer co. ltd.
creative director: jiwon baik
space design team: hyoungseok lee, yoonjin lee
photographer: kyungsub shin
construction: yongsung construction / misoro design
area: 247m2
purpose: resting area / lobby / cafe

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: peter corboy | designboom