GDS Architects Win 2nd Phase of Cheongna City Tower Competition - the World's First Invisible Tower?

After winning Phase 1 of the design competion for the supertall Cheongna City Tower (formerly known as Tower Infinity) in Incheon, South Korea (previously on Bustler), international practice GDS Architects has now also taken the Fist Prize in the invited competition (Phase 2) to do the project through design development.

Project Description from the Architects:

The observation tower will be the new national gateway landmark for Korea as passengers travel to and from Incheon Int'l Airport. Instead of symbolizing prominence as another of the world's "tallest and best" towers, it sets itself apart by celebrating the global community rather than focusing on itself. the tower subtly demonstrates Korea's rising position in the world by establishing its most powerful presence through diminishing its presense. Korea will have a unique position of having the "best" tower by having an "anti tower". The tower itself appears to disappear through a unique optical technology. Outdoor promenades connect to Cheongna's water canals and natural park setting. Extensive podium program of retail, children activities, water park, cultural, sports, and ecological activities complete the visitor experience.

Project Details:

Client: Korea Land Corporation and Cheongna Organization
Tower Height: 450m
Site area: 110,400 sqm
Total area: 145,500 sqm, 2,000 parking stalls
Status: International design competition winner, 2008 Second stage competition winner, 2012
Completion: 2014

Phase 2 Winner:

Design Architect: GDS Architects and GDS Korea                                                 
Executive Architect: Samoo Architects                                                 
Associate Architects: A&U Group Architects, 2HM Architects, Haima Architects    
GDS Team: Charles Wee, AIA, Michael Collins, Scott Callihan
GDSK Team:  Jae Young Jang, Yong Won Sohn, Min Wook Kang 
Structural Engineer: King-Le Chang & Associates, USA/Taiwan 
Facade/Sustainability: ARUP- Hong Kong