Busan Opera House

The Busan Opera House is our proposal for an international design competition for a new Opera House and landmark for the city of Busan in South Korea.

Based on the main characteristics of the site – the ocean, mountains and the city skyline combined with the traditional Korean symbol Sam-Taegeuk that embodies heaven, earth and mankind – we developed a concepts that aims to merge nature and the built surroundings with our proposal for the Busan Opera Hall. The new landmark will greet travelers arriving from the sea while framing views of the ocean from the city. By reflecting the ever-changing surroundings in its facade the building is able to truly merge the natural beauty of the site with the architectural expression of the structure.

Pathways and ramps that are leading to the Opera House express the fluidity of the site characteristics and connect the building to the site; like strings of yarn that emerge from a larger nucleus which in turn houses the main program spaces. All program components are housed in floating “bubbles” within that shape which provides for a dramatic lobby space while ensuring a clear visual orientation for the visitors. The facade is made of two layers that consist of a structural fritted interior facade and a mirror glass exterior facade that allows light to filter through into the main space while allowing views from the inside out. To allow for the promotion of current shows at night, an integrated LED system can transform the building into one large billboard.

Our proposal for the new Opera House is not just an iconic solitaire but a building that merges with the landscape around it by continuously changing and interacting with its surroundings while being equally attractive from every vantage point, making it a very subtle yet iconic landmark that perfectly expresses the dynamic essence of Busan while providing a new activity hub for all aspects of life.