Situated in the hills of Maebong-San Seoul, the Mapo Oil Depot, once a pivotal economic symbol, has faded into obscurity. Our vision for revitalizing the Oil Depot involves creating an "Open Park" – a new Cultural Depot that unveils the layers of history embedded in the site. The design preserves the existing structures and pathways, paying homage to the history of the oil tanks and the natural environment.

Through the strategic incorporation of large inflatable elements emerging from each tank, the design aims to evoke curiosity and playfulness. These lightweight and flexible fabric structures will seemingly float within the mountainous landscape, engaging in a visual dialogue with each other. The illumination cast by these elements not only brings the site to life but also signifies a new chapter, symbolizing the dawn of fresh beginnings. 

Title: Mapo Oil Cultural Depot
Location: Seoul, South Korea
Principal Use: Museum Complex
Size: 5393 sqm
Number of Stories: 2
Structure: Steel
Competition Period: 2014
Designed in Collaboration with Local Architect: Hyukjin Kang, SID
Landscape Architect: Cho Hye Ryeong