Samsung C&T Engineering and Construction (E&C) Group’s Raemian One Bailey Street Art Gallery has been recognized as a Featured Finalist in the 2024 IDEA Design Awards in the “Environments” category. This innovative underground public space combines urban art with sustainable design, providing pedestrians with a unique cultural experience in the heart of Seoul.
The Samsung C&T E&C Group is excited to announce that its Raemian One Bailey Street Art Gallery has been recognized as a Featured Finalist in the 2024 IDEA Design Awards in the “Environments” category. The International Design Excellence Awards are hosted by the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA) and are considered one of the world’s most prestigious design awards. The final winners are selected by a professional industrial design jury that considers innovation, usability, social contribution, and aesthetics.
Located in the heart of Seoul, the Raemian One Bailey Street Art Gallery is a 360-meter underground walkway. The walkway connects the “GoTo” Mall to Banpo Hangang Park alongside Seoul’s Han River. This marks the third global design award the E&C Group has received this year, following awards from Germany’s Red Dot Design Awards and iF Design Awards.
24 Hours in Seoul Interpreted by 24 Artists
What sets this public space apart is the gallery-like atmosphere created through the works of 24 graffiti, cartoon, and illustration artists. The murals have the central theme of “24 Hours in the Life of Seoul Citizens.” The bold show of color and varying takes on the bustling life of a Seoulite offer pedestrians a visual narrative that mirrors the dynamic life of the city.
Woo-young Choi, one of the featured artists, explains that she focused on the early hours of 3 to 4 AM for her mural. Choi’s work depicts the lives of those asleep and those awake with their thoughts, using anonymous black figures to symbolize universal experiences. Walking through the Street Art Gallery, depending on which direction you take, will take you on a journey of the day in the life in Seoul, from the perspectives of a diverse range of artists.
Experience Seoul’s Daily Rhythm Through Art
The Raemian One Bailey walkway of murals was designed not just as a pedestrian route, but also as an artistic space that allows passersby to reflect on everyday urban life. Artist Gano Jang, who was given the 11 AM to 12 PM time slot, wanted to capture the feeling of being full and sleepy after lunchtime in Seoul. Jang noted that the vibrant murals turn the walkway into a place where pedestrians can explore without boredom and experience a new perspective on public spaces.
Semitr, the artist who was given the 1 PM to 2 PM slot, reflected on the renewed energy you get as the second half of the day begins through his work. In addition to the art, the walkway’s architectural design is a standout feature. Natural light streams through skylights and a sunken garden, ensuring the space remains bright and welcoming throughout the day. The design also enhances the area’s safety and comfort, providing a refreshing alternative to typical underground passages.
Bringing Art to Everyday Life
The Raemian One Bailey walkway not only serves as a functional space but also as a cultural symbol for Seoul’s residents and visitors. As the artists expressed, the goal was to create something casual and approachable. Woo-young Choi hopes that people will enjoy the art during their daily commutes without needing to visit an art gallery. This emphasis on accessibility and engagement with the community contributed to the project’s recognition by the IDEA Design Award.
Samsung C&T’s Commitment to Cultural Innovation
This award recognition reflects Samsung C&T E&C Group’s commitment to innovative and sustainable design. Myung-seok Kim, Executive Vice President of the Group’s Housing Business Division, stated, “We will continue to introduce innovative and differentiated designs that elevate the value of RAEMIAN and satisfy our customers.”
Raemian One Bailey Street Art Gallery
To see the work of the 24 artists, visit the G2 exit at GoTo Mall, Located at Express Bus Terminal Subway Station (Lines 3, 7, and 9) in the Seocho District of Seoul, South Korea
