DuPont Offices – Seoul
OPQR designed the DuPont offices in Seoul’s ASEM Tower to intertwine Korean architectural identity with modern workplace dynamics, creating a culturally resonant space that balances flexibility, comfort, and visual harmony.
Following the completion of “Madang”—a Korean-inspired work lounge in DuPont’s Yeoksam office in 2024—the company expanded its footprint to ASEM Tower in Samseong-dong, introducing a new 180 pyung (~595 sqm) workplace. Designed to serve both as a flexible work lounge and operational office, the space continues DuPont’s exploration of Korean architectural identity while presenting a distinct spatial narrative of its own.
Two major architectural challenges shaped the design approach: a long, narrow entry corridor from the elevator lobby and a curved exterior window wall that created asymmetrical geometry. Rather than treating these as limitations, the design leveraged them as narrative devices to guide orientation and spatial experience.
Upon arrival, visitors pass through the extended corridor, which builds anticipation before arriving at the warmly lit Sarangchae—a public-facing lounge inspired by traditional Korean guest quarters. This space, visible at the end of the corridor, acts as an anchor and soft landing point, offering emotional comfort and visual relief for both staff and guests. A centrally placed structural column near the entry was surrounded by a custom bar-height table with integrated planting, dispersing the visual weight of the column and drawing the eye naturally into the lounge.
The curved façade posed a second spatial challenge. To restore balance and clarity, a long interior wall was introduced on the opposite side of the curve. This strategic partition delineates the Sarangchae and the Anchae—the inner workspace dedicated to focused tasks—while also neutralizing the irregular angles, enabling a more intuitive layout.
The Sarangchae features a ceiling motif inspired by the traditional eaves (Cheoma) of Korean Hanok architecture. This sculpted form curves gently to meet the floor, subtly dividing the space between free-form table arrangements and booth seating. One long wall houses a 130-inch LED screen, enabling the lounge to function as a town hall or event space. Oversized tables were custom-designed to allow ample space for four-person meetings, balancing openness and structure.
Color selection reinforces cultural and spatial themes. A deep indigo blue, known as Jjokbit—historically reserved for nobility and symbolizing the sky—was chosen as the primary tone. This was paired with warm orange accents to add contrast and energy. From the 24th floor, these tones harmonize with sweeping views of the Han River and the Seoul skyline, grounding the interior experience in its broader context.
This project builds upon the identity established at Yeoksam, while offering its own architectural character through carefully resolved spatial challenges. The result is a workplace that feels culturally rooted, spatially refined, and emotionally resonant.
Design: OPQR
Photography: Donggyu Kim
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