Biophilic riverside living in Seoul

A residential project by UNStudio draws inspiration from nature to enhance individual wellbeing and community connectivity.

A residential development in Seoul is set to create the South Korean capital’s first biophilic, sustainable and community-focused project. Hannamdong-4 Residences, by UNStudio for Samsung C&T Corporation, features a group of O-shaped towers along the Han River with an innovative spiral design.

“This is an incredibly exciting project because it represents a new benchmark for urban living in Seoul,” says Ben van Berkel, founder and principal architect of UNStudio.

“By blending biophilic design, sustainability and innovation, we are creating a unique residential experience that harmonises the vitality of the city with the tranquility of nature. This project is not just about architecture – it’s about shaping a future where people, community and the environment thrive together.”

Like many contemporary cities, Seoul has experienced rapid urbanisation and sprawl, often at the expense of sustainability and liveability. The Namsan mountain has become increasingly disconnected from the Han River.

The UNStudio project aims to reconnect the two, linking the O-shaped riverside buildings to X-shaped and L-shaped towers which are set on the road that leads to the mountain.

Based on the concept of a ‘biophilic nexus’, UNStudio’s design proposal for this residential development enhances both individual wellbeing and community connectivity by drawing inspiration from the distinct characteristics of its location.

“This holistic approach prioritises wellbeing and sustainability, creating an environment where the city and nature coexist in harmony,” says van Berkel.

Inspired by nature

The project’s design is inspired by the local environment. The white pine tree, which was believed to have disappeared, has now re-emerged in Seoul, and water lilies, emblematic of the Han River, serve as the inspiration for the facade of the project.

For the series of X-shaped towers, the facade features intricate patterns that mimic the texture and form of white pine trees. Vertical elements, indicative of tree trunks and branches, are integrated into the building’s structure. The central ‘trunk’ branches out at the podium levels to create balconies with views of the Han River and continues all the way to the top, framing each tower.

For the O-shaped towers, rotating water lily modules are arranged around the column that naturally becomes a green spine. These modules are inspired by petals and create a cohesive and expressive articulation around the cylindrical tower. These are strategically placed to create a sense of fluidity and movement across the building. The back of the L-shaped towers is inspired by pine trees, while the front is inspired by water lilies.

All towers have integrated features that protect the environment while enhancing quality of life. Green terraces not only improve air quality but promote biodiversity, while advanced water management systems, including rainwater harvesting and permeable paving, work to minimise the development’s environmental impact. Energy-efficient technologies, solar panels and renewable energy solutions further reduce its carbon footprint.

Shared spaces

The biophilic design extends to the interior of the towers. The layout of residential spaces is flexible, to accommodate changing family configurations and diverse lifestyles. This gives residents the ability to adjust interior spaces according to their needs. This increases spatial efficiency and provides customised environments tailored to users’ preferences.

Hannamdong-4 Residences will transform urban living through expansive spaces and lush landscaping. Shared spaces are designed to foster a sense of community, even in a densely populated urban environment. This includes a community centre that will offer 360-degree panoramic views.

Highline 365, meanwhile, is a 365m long, eco-friendly elevated walkway that also has jogging tracks and year-round gardens for residents and locals alike. Samsung also plans to establish five parks across Hannamdong-4 Residences, covering a total area of 33,000 sq m.