Enjoying Nature in the Heart of the City: Gaepo Xi Presidence

Ultimately, SKM, which aims for ‘humanism’ in architecture, sets its sights on ‘broadly enhancing the quality of life and human experience within the architectural environment’. This focus has naturally led to a deep interest in apartments, which constitute the majority of housing types in Korean society. Min acknowledges that designing multifamily housing can be challenging due to stringent regulations, but he emphasises that architects should engage more actively in the design process. He continues his collaboration with Xi through projects like Xi Gallery (2007), Gaepo Xi Presidence (2023), and Xi the RIVER ICHON (yet to be constructed).

The Gaepo Xi Presidence, SKM’s first large-scale multifamily housing project, redevelops the old Gaepo Public Housing District 4. With a total of 3,375 units spread across 35 buildings, each reaching up to 35 storeys, it is a massive complex. It features a relatively low density design, with a floor area ratio of 249% and a building to land ratio of 18%, which means it is less crowded than other new developments. The site serves as a connecting point between the cluster of buildings and Daemosan Mountain, offering an optimal environment to enjoy nature within the city.

The Gaepo Xi Presidence is the first instance within the Xi brand to incorporate the ‘Xi Design Components’. These components serve as guidelines to infuse the entire complex with Xi’s residential philosophy. Xi recognises that the form, pattern, light, colour, sound, and texture of architectural spaces can significantly influence human thought and behaviour. It emphasises that well- organised design elements allow individuals to immerse themselves naturally in their lives. Following the ‘Xi Design Components’ has brought more light into living spaces, making transitions through underground areas more comfortable and allowing residents to modify their home layouts to suit their lifestyles, despite varying sizes. Additionally, organising pathways through gateposts, parking lots, main entrances, community facilities, and walking trails has created a serene, nature-integrated environment throughout the complex, enhancing the sense of stability.

SKM has defined the main theme for Gaepo Xi Presidence as ‘design connected with nature’, with the overall concept being ‘a resort in Gangnam’. This concept of enjoying nature in an urban resort is reflected in every aspect, from the curved exterior design to the use of eco-friendly materials and the inclusion of an infinity pool.

The exterior design of the Gaepo Xi Presidence is deliberately simple and serene to avoid becoming outdated. To break away from the monotony of uniform apartment designs and reduce the visual fatigue often associated with rectangular buildings, curves are prominently used. The curves of the apartment’s façade and rooftop harmonise with the clouds floating above Daemosan Mountain and Guryongsan Mountain, as well as the ripples of the Yangjaecheon Stream. The entrance gates are also designed in a streamlined form, creating a soft and lively atmosphere as if a rainbow has appeared at the entrance of the complex.

Min pointed out that a particularly subtle design feature is the appearance of the complex when viewed from the side. He intended for the unique design patterns of each building to come together like a painting. While preserving the individuality of each design, he has not sacrificed the unity of the large complex. The patterns, which are broadly categorised into four types, feature different colours for each building. Natural, eco-friendly materials are thoughtfully used throughout Gaepo Xi Presidence. For example, at the main entrance, rough-textured natural stone is stacked like an acid-stone wall, allowing residents to experience the joy of transitioning between urban and natural environments.