Located in Jung-Gu, South Korea, the Piknic 2020 Cultural Centre, designed by Indiesalon, stands as a testament to the transformation of a historic Goshiwon into a vibrant cultural hub. This mixed-use architecture seamlessly combines elements of the past with modern amenities, creating a space that celebrates heritage while embracing contemporary design.
Renovation Journey
Originally built as a Goshiwon share house in the 1990s, the Piknic 2020 Cultural Centre underwent a remarkable renovation to breathe new life into the space. Instead of allowing it to remain a relic of the past, Indiesalon transformed the building into a dynamic complex featuring a cinema room, café, restaurant, and design shops. Efforts were made to preserve the building’s historical significance while infusing it with fresh, futural possibilities.
Layers of Renovation
The renovation process uncovered layers of history within the building, revealing its former use as a dense Goshiwon with multiple rooms. As the old roof and walls were removed, the distinct planes of the floors became visible, each telling a story of the building’s evolution over time.
Innovative Design Features
The Piknic 2020 Cultural Centre spans multiple floors, each carefully designed to maximize functionality and accessibility. From the partially buried first floor to the rooftop with expansive views, every level serves a unique purpose while maintaining architectural harmony. The building’s layout includes a Hoehyeon restaurant, café, sub-art space, editing shop, and rooftop terrace, connected by a central stairway entrance.
Red Brick Revival
One of the defining features of the original building is its red brick exterior, which has aged over the years. Indiesalon paid homage to this heritage by retaining the red color while incorporating trendy materials and finishes to update each floor with a modern twist. This juxtaposition of classic and contemporary elements creates a striking visual contrast, highlighting the building’s rich history.
Conclusion
The Piknic 2020 Cultural Centre represents a successful marriage of tradition and innovation in architectural design. By preserving the building’s historical identity while introducing modern amenities, Indiesalon has created a space that appeals to both nostalgia and forward-thinking. This cultural hub serves as a beacon of creativity and community, inviting visitors to explore its diverse offerings and experience the intersection of past, present, and future.
