Located in Seoul, South Korea, the 4400+ sq m Christian Dior Flagship Store features a prominent sculptural white facade inspired by the shape and movement of fabric. Designed by French architect Christian de Portzamparc together with indigenous architects DPJ & Partners, the facade of the store is composed of 11 curvaceous panels (each one measuring 6m x 20m) of self-standing Glass Fibre Reinforced Plastic (GFRP).

I wanted the building to represent Dior and to reflect Christian Dior’s work. So I wanted the surfaces to flow, like the couturier’s soft, woven white cotton fabric. These surfaces, which soar into the sky and undulate as if in motion, crossed by a few lines, are made from long moulded fiber glass shells, fitted together with aircraft precision.

In Seoul, where the quadrangular buildings align with the avenue, and which are all occupied by leading international fashion labels, the building stands out like a large sculptural tribute to Dior, inviting everyone to step inside.

The entrance, where two shells come together, is a sort of modern lancet arch, in which two metal mesh surfaces cross in line with the clothing metaphor. Once inside, the customer makes a succession of discoveries – a feature typical of the interiors designed by Peter Marino.

Architects : Christian de Portzamparc Location : 464 Apgujeong-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea Local Architect / Project Manager : DPJ & Partners, Architecture Area : 4408.0 sqm Project Year : 2015 GFRP Façade Development : DPJ & Partners, Architecture Design Base Structural Engineer : CS Structural Engineering GFRP Façade Quality Control : Bureau Veritas Lighting Designer : L’Observatoire International Main Contractor : Kolon Global Corporation GFRP Façade Sub-contractor : Design Base Metal Façade & Curtain Wall Sub-contractor : Iljin Unisco Photos: Nicolas Bore

Christian de Portzamparc