127

Seoul’s landscape, characterized by its historic palaces, four major mountains encircling the city, and modern skyscrapers, presents both challenges and solutions. A common assumption is that historical preservation and urban revitalization stand in opposition with no middle ground, but this doesn’t hold true. While the existing skyscrapers in the city center might be seen as disruptive to the historic landscape, they also hold the potential to complement Seoul’s skyline by serving as a protective barrier for new skyscrapers. Leveraging the concept of viewing the shadows cast by these existing structures, we attempted to unearth fresh avenues for growth within the declining historic city center. By conducting an extensive 3D ISOVIST analysis on digital models from 27 vantage points—including various angles of elevation from cultural treasures such as Gyeongbokgung Palace, elevated perspectives from the city’s four major mountains, and viewpoints along main streets—we’ve arrived at the conclusion that buildings that blend seamlessly with the historical landscape can be erected within a range spanning from a minimum height of 31 meters and a maximum of 127 meters, instead of the fixed height limit we have today. Setting the new city envelope to 127 meters allows the historic center to continue to evolve.