The first impression of the EGO Building is how simple its form looks, with the dominance of a single material on its facade. The building stands as a block divided by a thick striped grid. However, the massive block is partially shaped with gradual rooftops at the back. The main concept proposed by owolarchitects is visual simplicity and functionality in a dense urban setting.

The facade is dominated by a single material. Image taken from the owolarchitects’ website (cr: Hyeonki Yoon).

Gradual rooftops at the back of the building. Image taken from owolarchitects’ website (cr: Hyeonki Yoon).

The approach was applied through clean lines, simple geometrics, and the use of one type of brick on all sides of the building envelope. Red bricks were used as an attempt to be contextual with the surrounding buildings, which use similar materials.

Clean lines and simple geometrics with red brick material. Image taken from owolarchitects’ website (cr: Hyeonki Yoon).

EGO Building in a dense urban area. Image taken from owolarchitects’ website (cr: Hyeonki Yoon).

The building was constructed carefully, especially given obstacles such as unpredictable underground water volumes. To tackle this problem, the foundation was reinforced to ensure the stability of the mixed-use structure. In addition, environmental issues were also taken into account through energy savings and the mechanical exchange system.

Curve frame. Image taken from owolarchitects’ website (cr: Hyeonki Yoon).

Natural light penetrated through wide windows. Image taken from owolarchitects’ website (cr: Hyeonki Yoon).

The ground-floor veranda, framed by curved lines, is at the same level as the road in front. Several parking slots and walking paths lead to the entrance. The lower part of the building is occupied by commercial spaces, while the upper floors are used as residential areas.

Ground floor veranda. Image taken from owolarchitects’ website (cr: Hyeonki Yoon).

The building’s similar appearance with the surrounding buildings. Image taken from owolarchitects’ website (cr: Hyeonki Yoon).

Similar to the exterior appearance, the building’s interior design is also simplified by combining only a few materials and colors. Windows that are precisely the same size provide access to natural light to illuminate the interior while also providing visual access on each floor to look outside to the street. The building exposes structural elements such as beams and columns as well as utility networks that are not only aesthetic but also functional, expressing the balance between function and beauty.

The interior. Image taken from owolarchitects’ website (cr: Hyeonki Yoon).

Exposed structure and utility. Image taken from owolarchitects’ website (cr: Hyeonki Yoon).

Despite its similarity to the old buildings around it, the shape of the EGO Building radiates a modern impression, which is contrasted by the scale and proportions of various elements.