A Study on the Changing Architectural Properties of Mixed-Use Commercial Complexes in Seoul, Korea

Sungkyun Lee

doi:10.3390/su14052649

Abstract

This study conducts a chronological analysis of six mixed-use commercial complexes in the Seoul metropolitan area and examines their planning characteristics and patterns of change. The analysis reveals the following changes. The spatial composition of these complexes is shifting away from large anchor type commercial facilities to small local commercial facilities. Their circulations and arrangement are shifting to consideration for non-consumption tendencies, and circular and three-dimensional connections between each space are emphasized. Central spaces are shifting from a large single center to small multi-centers, and the utilization of central spaces for events and performances is increasing. Concepts that stimulate visitors’ interest and non-daily experiences are being expanded, which include the use of new themes, such as natural motifs, and the reproduction of classical streets in the space, corridors, colors, and material planning. Based on their changing patterns, this study predicted such complexes’ direction of change. First, they will expand their role as the center of the local community. Second, they will bolster their linkage with local streets and expand the street-type circulation plan. Third, small multi-center spaces and themed external spaces will increase. Fourth, non-consumption and non-daily planning elements will increase.

Highlights

Expanding its role as the center of the local community: the COVID-19 pandemic is contrary to the architecture and urbanism principles [23], and it has caused an increase in virtual interactions and online shopping
Linkage with local streets and expansion of street-type circulation plan: an increase in the number of living-street circulation plans that reflect the characteristics of the region is expected [26], such as the expansion of organic circulations that can naturally participate in shopping, dining, and events by actively linking with existing streets in a circular and three-dimensional manner [27]
Given the expansion of virtual society due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the role and importance of mixed-use commercial complexes that can satisfy both leisure and cultural enjoyment will be further expanded in order for the offline market to survive

Summary

Introduction

A representative type of architecture that reflects this altered consumer culture of the modern era is commercial complex. As subway access areas around the Seoul metropolitan area are turning into commercial and cultural centers, commercial complexes are providing experiences at various levels, such as leisureoriented cultural consumption, as well as traditional consumption. They contain various facilities such as residences, businesses, cultural venues, and entertainment venues. The commercial complex is, a space that symbolizes modern consumption culture and partly fulfilling social demands [3]

Methods

Discussion

Conclusion