APAP OpenSchool
APAP OPENSCHOOL
LOT-EK
YEAR
2010
LOCATION
Anyang-si, South Korea
CATEGORY
Schools
Text description provided by architect.
A shipping container structure is conceived as an open site for the OpenSchool and positioned along the river edge to activate the recreational space of the riverfront and to allow its users to be visitors, spectators and actors during the course of the public art program of APAP2010.
Eight shipping containers are skewed to a 45 degree angle and combined in a fishbone pattern generating a large arrow-like volume that hovers three meters over the landscape.
The structure is strategically placed over Hakwoon park pedestrian walkway at the city level right on the edge of the drop to the river bank, marking the territory as a focal place of gathering, resting and viewing.
Three different and interconnected areas provide a sequence of varied spatial experiences within the OpenSchool:
1. At ground level, the footprint of the shipping container structure becomes a public amphitheater taking advantage of the existing sloping topography. The amphitheater lower section offers a viewpoint on the landscape along the river edge.
The upper section, reaching a higher level, engages the main open space below the OpenSchool structure, transforming it into a space for performances.
The social spaces entice public gathering and community exchange. A shipping container, directly connected to the pedestrian paths, invites access to the upper levels.
2. At the second level, carved out of the hovering containers' interior space, the program includes one large, open, multi-purpose space that functions as a meeting/assembly room and exhibition space, as well as two studios for artists-in-residence.
The two frontal walls, along the north-west axis and at the most dramatic overhang of the structure, are solid and pierced only by a series of peep-holes. Located at different heights to be accessible for kids and adults, the tubes frame different views within the surrounding landscape, focusing on natural and urban moments of its neighborhood.
A stairway, contained within a shipping container, directs to the structure top level. The containers’ short sides are entirely glazed allowing natural light, cross ventilation and views toward the park path below.
3. A long decked area, at the third level, stretches over the river. Resembling a diving-board, the roof deck offers an amazing view from its suspended position while two long benches provide a space for social interaction.
The strong graphic treatment of the new structure of the APAP2010 OpenSchool, with its bright yellow and black structure, lettering and deck, makes it visible for cars and passersby alike as a landmark within the urban fabric of Anyang.
