condenCITY_63 Urban Factories





A new exhibition in New York at the Skyscraper Museum titled 'Vertical Urban Factory' recently peaked my interest as I examine similar conditions here in Seoul with regards to shifting industrial zones in the city (and what is ultimately left behind as industry relocates to the urban periphery). There is a good article at the Architects Newspaper that reviews the NYC exhibition and brings to light conditions today and more pointedly through the twentieth century of factories in the urban center.  

Not surprisingly is the differences between factories and districts of industry in Seoul in contrast to the western equivalent which has revealed more integral forms in aging city-scapes. In Seoul, the integration is more complex perhaps and regarded with less long term value and questionable overall contributions to the urban fabric. The social components of such conditions are still undeniable as workers and supporting  businesses shape the city in ways unique to industrial process. 

With the displacement of industry anywhere and factories that remain, choices persist as these places rest idle. 





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