iArc Architects & Planners

Asan Institute for Policy Studies

Asan Institute for Policy Studies
© Youngchae Park

ASAN INSTITUTE FOR POLICY STUDIES

IARC Architects

ARCHITECTS
IARC Architects

LOCATION
South Korea

YEAR
2010

CATEGORY
Instutute

AREA
6.172 (Site)

PHOTOGRAPHS
Youngchae Park

Text description provided by architect.

Goals of the project: Maximizing building energy performance, Top Grade Korean Energy Conservation Standard

Asan Institute for Policy Studies
© Youngchae Park
Asan Institute for Policy Studies
© Youngchae Park

Special considerations: Harmony with Context (nearby old palace) Unique design requirements: Distant statement for the Institute

The Asan Institute for Policy Studies is a three story building with a simple square glass form. This minimal form proceeds from the project's location and proximity to the traditional Kyonghi Palace.

Asan Institute for Policy Studies
© Youngchae Park
Asan Institute for Policy Studies
© Youngchae Park

Compared to the simple overall form of the exterior, the interior of the building has a dynamic energy that emerges from the bold free form atrium from the entry level to the four story high atrium. The building's circulation is completely encapsulated in the atrium so that the users of the building cross through this area.

The atrium is placed in the middle of the building allowing sunlight to come in, as well as natural ventilation to flow throughout the building.

Asan Institute for Policy Studies
© Youngchae Park
Asan Institute for Policy Studies
© Youngchae Park

The 250mm flat slab is supported with the free curved atrium frame and steel mullion around the buildings perimeter.

All the plumbing and electric lines as well as the air supply goes through the raised floor and the ceiling is made of exposed concrete. First floor where the lobby is located is open to the public with a gallery, cafe, and a small theater with 140 seats.

Asan Institute for Policy Studies
© Youngchae Park
Asan Institute for Policy Studies
© Youngchae Park

Towards the top of the building, users of the building can travel up the atrium bridge out to the roof garden where they can see the Kyonghi Palace and a grand view of the city of Seoul. 

Even though the building itself is restrained with a simple form, the central space of the free form surprises the visitors with a strong statement representing the Institutes ambitious mission.


Asan Institute for Policy Studies
Elevation & Section
Asan Institute for Policy Studies
Section


Asan Institute for Policy Studies
Diagram 01
Asan Institute for Policy Studies
Diagram 02


Asan Institute for Policy Studies
Site Plan
Asan Institute for Policy Studies
Plan 01
Asan Institute for Policy Studies
Plan 02

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