The Up-Cycling Tree is situated in Yeouido, a lively district in Seoul that blends business and residential life. The design focuses on recycling paper waste, transforming a typical facility into a space that promotes sustainability in an urban setting. The concept is inspired by the image of a tree, representing the process of upcycling and encouraging a closer relationship between the city and waste management.

Vertical Arrangement

The design features a vertical layout that efficiently stacks different functions, including recycling, office spaces, and areas for community interaction. This configuration maximizes the use of land in a densely populated environment, reducing the space generally needed for recycling plants. By placing the facility within the urban core, it streamlines waste collection and addresses the challenges of transporting materials across city boundaries.

Integration of Green Spaces

The Up-Cycling Tree incorporates green spaces, such as hanging gardens. These elements not only beautify the building but also improve air quality and encourage biodiversity in the city. Integrating nature into the structure highlights a commitment to ecological sustainability, connecting the industrial process of recycling with the natural environment.

Community Engagement

The design emphasizes community interaction by blending cultural and office spaces with recycling operations. This approach invites public participation and raises awareness about sustainable practices. By transforming recycling facilities into places for education and social gatherings, the project breaks down the barriers that often separate industrial activities from everyday urban life.

Artistic Mechanisms

Mechanisms within the facility serve practical functions while also appealing to the aesthetic experience. This thoughtful integration presents parts of the recycling process in an open way, making them part of the visual landscape. The layout encourages exploration and curiosity, allowing people to see the workings of recycling as part of their environment.

A notable feature of the Up-Cycling Tree is its ability to merge industrial functionality with natural elements, creating a design that changes how waste management is perceived in urban spaces. This project offers a new perspective on the role of recycling in city life.