Park1538 is a public space embedded within the everyday landscape of Gwangyang, an industrial city known for its steel production. The project was inspired by the name “Gwangyang” itself—’Gwang’ meaning light and ‘Yang’ sunlight—which became a guiding principle in shaping the form and spirit of the space. The resulting architecture captures the flowing rhythm of light through its curved steel surfaces, creating a sculptural yet purposeful structure that embodies both technological and cultural narratives.
© Sergio Pirrone
The first challenges arose from translating abstract concepts into a buildable form—especially the need to balance sculptural fluidity with structural integrity. Realizing the ribs’ complex curves, the cantilevered exhibition hall, and the unified spatial flow demanded close collaboration among design, engineering, and fabrication teams. Each structural rib was individually calibrated to accommodate different programmatic demands, resulting in a non-standard construction process from start to finish.
© Sergio Pirrone
PosMAC, POSCO Magnesium Aluminium alloy Coating Product, was used for both structure and cladding, showcasing the material’s ability to realize irregular forms and complex curves. A total of 4,400 tons of steel was used to make the building itself a monument to the possibilities of steel. Early-stage 3D simulations and an integrated design process allowed structure, skin, and space to evolve together, minimizing setbacks and enabling precise execution.
© Sergio Pirrone
Spatially, the project is divided into distinct yet interconnected zones: a ground-level public plaza, a floating gallery space on the third floor, and an educational center woven around an atrium and shared stairs. This vertical stratification enhances accessibility while symbolizing the openness of corporate space to the community. The following circulation path within the gallery reflects a natural narrative, unfolding across three dimensions.
1st and 2nd Floor Plan
More than a building, Park1538 is a public gesture—a space of openness and memory. Landscaping strategies reintroduce nature into the formerly industrial site, while recycled steelmaking remnants are integrated into the ground, transforming the site’s heritage into a living, regenerative landscape.
Project Info:
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Architects: POSCO A&C, UnSangDong Architects
- Country: Gwangyang-si, South Korea
- Area: 8569 m²
- Year: 2025
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Photographs: Sergio Pirrone
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Lead Architects: Yoongyoo Jang, Changhoon Shin, Mijung Kim, POSCO A&C
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Category: Cultural Center
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Design Team: Yoongyoo Jang, Changhoon Shin, Mijung Kim, POSCO A&C
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Architecture Offices: POSCO A&C
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General Constructing: POSCO E&C
Madeline Brooks is a Projects Editor at Arch2O, where she has been shaping and refining architectural content since March 2024. With over a decade of experience in editorial work, she has curated, revised, and published an array of projects covering architecture, urbanism, and public space design. A graduate of the Harvard University Graduate School of Design, Madeline brings a strong academic foundation and a discerning editorial eye to each piece she oversees. Since joining Arch2O, she has played a pivotal role in shaping the platform’s editorial direction, with a focus on sustainability, social relevance, and cutting-edge design. Madeline excels at translating complex architectural ideas into clear, engaging stories that resonate with both industry professionals and general readers. She works closely with architects, designers, and global contributors to ensure every project is presented with clarity, depth, and compelling visual narrative. Her editorial leadership continues to elevate Arch2O’s role in global architectural dialogue.