Lush Curvaceous Green Wall Grows in iArc Architects’ New Seoul City Hall

The heart of <a href="http://inhabitat.com/?s=seoul‎" target="_blank">Seoul</a> is beating even greener thanks to <a href="http://iarc.net" target="_blank">iArc Architects'</a> refresh of the South Korean City Hall. The upgraded architecture symbolizes both the capital’s devotion to democracy in its transparent glass façade and to sustainable development with its lush, multi-story <a href="http://inhabitat.com/tag/green-walls/" target="_blank">green wall</a>. In reference to the undulating mountainous terrain surrounding Seoul, the architects created a dramatic curve into the new city hall, which gives it a likeness to a giant wave in motion.

A lush, multi-story green wall alludes to the city's goals for sustainable development.

Connected to the old city hall by an elevated bridge, the new government building also overlooks neighboring Seoul Plaza, a symbol of forward-thinking and environmentally friendly principles.

iArc Architects designed Seoul's new city hall as the bridge between the city's history and sustainability-minded future.

In contrast to the typical staidness of governmental buildings, the city hall consists of a modern, whimsical design that promotes transparency and interactivity.

Natural light floods the white and stainless steel interior, highlighting colorful artistic installations as well as the glittering metallic beams that curve above tall escalators linking multiple floors.

Visually, the building was designed as an extension of the eco-friendly plaza and includes a living green wall as well as an adaptive window shade system that opens and closes to mitigate solar heat gain.

A rooftop garden terrace offers an additional look out point across the city skyline.

In addition to office space, the multipurpose building also includes a number of cultural facilities such as an auditorium.