Manta Ray, Seoul
In June 2017, Vincent Callebaut Architectures released designs for an innovative new urban landscape project in Seoul, South Korea.
Yeouido Park is an experimental urban space dedicated to sustainable development, and is one of Seoul’s most popular tourist attractions. Under the auspices of the South Korean government, the park is intended to promote the rehabilitation of urban ecosystems and biodiversity.
As a major part of this, the Manta Ray project intends to transform the park into an ecological forest of willow trees and create a marsh-like filtering strip of vegetation; enhancing the site’s natural irrigation and protecting the banks against flooding.
The proposed plan is made up of four biomimetic projects. The most striking of these is Yeoui-Naru, which involves the construction of a floating ferry terminal on the Han River. Its design is inspired by the hyperbolic geometry of a manta ray, and will be capable of adapting to rising waters of up to 5 m (16.4 ft).
The structure will consist of radial and concentric floating piers from which tree-like structures made from cross-laminated timber will rise, woven in a honeycomb pattern and branching out at the top.
The other three projects include:
- The landscaping of the river bank.
- The development of the park’s upper ground.
- The development of a cultural complex.
In addition, the project intends to serve as an example of energy efficient construction and sustainable building techniques.
The floating terminal will produce all of its own energy requirements:
- Solar: The rooftop will include 49,000 sq. ft of laminated glass facade with encased photovoltaic polycristalline cells.
- Wind: Rooftop wind trees will make up a 52-VAWT (vertical axis wind turbine) farm.
- Biomass: Organic and biodegradable waste from the park will supply a biomethanation plant.
- Water: Oscillating-foils hydrokinetic turbines will be integrated and synchronised along a floating barrier’s hull that encircles the marina. These are biomimetically-inspired from the tails of whales or dolphins and turn the river’s kinetic energy into electricity.
Images and content © Vincent Callebaut Architectures.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Amendment to the GB Energy Bill welcomed by ECA
Move prevents nationally-owned energy company from investing in solar panels produced by modern slavery.
Gregor Harvie argues that AI is state-sanctioned theft of IP.
Heat pumps, vehicle chargers and heating appliances must be sold with smart functionality.
Experimental AI housing target help for councils
Experimental AI could help councils meet housing targets by digitising records.
New-style degrees set for reformed ARB accreditation
Following the ARB Tomorrow's Architects competency outcomes for Architects.
BSRIA Occupant Wellbeing survey BOW
Occupant satisfaction and wellbeing tool inc. physical environment, indoor facilities, functionality and accessibility.
Preserving, waterproofing and decorating buildings.
Many resources for visitors aswell as new features for members.
Using technology to empower communities
The Community data platform; capturing the DNA of a place and fostering participation, for better design.
Heat pump and wind turbine sound calculations for PDRs
MCS publish updated sound calculation standards for permitted development installations.
Homes England creates largest housing-led site in the North
Successful, 34 hectare land acquisition with the residential allocation now completed.
Scottish apprenticeship training proposals
General support although better accountability and transparency is sought.
The history of building regulations
A story of belated action in response to crisis.
Moisture, fire safety and emerging trends in living walls
How wet is your wall?
Current policy explained and newly published consultation by the UK and Welsh Governments.
British architecture 1919–39. Book review.
Conservation of listed prefabs in Moseley.
Energy industry calls for urgent reform.