3XN GXN, in collaboration with SIAPLAN and MDA, has been declared the winner of the international competition to design the Chungnam Art Center in Chungcheongnam-do, South Korea. This prestigious project will complete the Chungnam Art Precinct, establishing a new hub for cultural and artistic expression. The design reflects a harmonious blend of global architectural vision and local cultural insights, creating a landmark that promises to enhance the region’s artistic landscape.
The winning design by 3XN GXN is inspired by the concept of movement, symbolizing the dynamic nature of art itself. Kim Herforth Nielsen, Founder and Creative Director at 3XN GXN, expressed excitement about the project, stating, “Chungnam Art Center will be a place as vibrant, layered, and expressive as the art it will be home to.” The center aims to be an inclusive space where both visitors and artists can engage with and contribute to the arts, enriching the cultural fabric of Chungcheongnam-do.
The architectural design of the Chungnam Art Center balances functionality with expressive form. Key program elements such as the halls, lobby, and fly-tower are efficiently arranged, while the roof’s subtle arcs respond to the internal volumes. The building features scalloped timber cladding, creating niches and seating areas that enhance the lobby’s open, clear design. Fred Holt, Partner and Director of 3XN Australia, emphasized the importance of simplicity in the user experience, ensuring that both visitors and performers find the center accessible and welcoming.
The roof’s design is both practical and visually striking, draped over the building’s volumes and curved to fit its functions. Holt describes the roof as “a building that expresses movement while reducing its perceived scale.” This approach not only contributes to the building’s aesthetic appeal but also integrates seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, offering stunning views and enhancing the visitor experience.
Situated between Naepo New Town and the Yongbongsan Mountains, the Chungnam Art Precinct benefits from a scenic backdrop and a sprawling park landscape. The art center’s orientation and design foster connections to both the urban environment and natural surroundings. The building’s footprint is minimized to maximize park space, and its design ensures there is no discernible front or back, providing beautiful view from all angles.
Sustainability is a core element of the Chungnam Art Center’s design. The project incorporates biophilic principles, using natural materials like wood and stone, and maximizing visibility to the surrounding landscapes. The roof integrates photovoltaics, and rainwater harvesting systems are included to enhance environmental performance. Expected to be completed by 2028/2029, the Chungnam Art Center will be 3XN GXN’s first project in South Korea, adding to their extensive portfolio of cultural and performing arts centers worldwide.
impressive as always! 3XN is trully the master of these large scale projects!