Green-Roofed Hydro-Nuclear Headquarters Emerges From Historic Gyeongju in South Korea

When asked to build a new headquarters for the Korea Hydro Nuclear Power Company (KHNP), <a href="http://www.haeahn.com/">Haeahn Architecture</a> was given no easy task. Gyeongju is a very important site for South Koreans - both historically and ecologically - and the company itself is dabbling in controversial research as worldwide support for <a href="http://inhabitat.com/europe-to-decommission-most-nuclear-power-stations-by-2030/">nuclear energy wanes</a>. So the firm opted for a careful mixed-use design that is partially covered with a green roof and makes room for energy-generating solar panels.

The Korea Hydo Nuclear Company commissioned a new headquarters in a very sensitive part of North Korea

Haeahn Architectures responded with a sensitive mixed-use design

A series of walkways divide the program and lead to the outdoor courtyard

The inner facade is transparent to allow daylighting, but comprises controlled shading to mitigate solar gain

The exterior facade is covered in perforated metal that protects from harsh winds

The building will be at least partially run on solar energy