Samsung C&T presented a design plan excluding the 'Sky Bridge' for the reconstruction of the Gaepo Woosung 7th in Gangnam, Seoul. The Sky Bridge is gaining attention in various development sites for its ease of movement between high-rise buildings and the ability to enjoy an unobstructed view. However, if local authorities determine that it disrupts the urban landscape, approval may be delayed, adversely affecting the project's viability.
Samsung C&T proposed on the 24th to apply a Sky Community on the top floors of the two landmark residential buildings, excluding the Sky Bridge, which has uncertain approval.
Samsung C&T explained that there is no mention of installing a Sky Bridge in the Gaepo Woosung 7th maintenance plan and reflected the recent trend of the Seoul City strictly reviewing the Sky Bridge due to concerns about disrupting the urban landscape.
Including this, Samsung C&T plans to block uncertainties by adopting a design that meets the city's approval criteria and prevents delays in the approval process.
Typically, in reconstruction and redevelopment projects, alternative design proposals from construction companies are allowed to reduce the burden of expenses on the association and enhance project viability. However, Seoul City is enforcing strict legal and administrative requirements to prevent indiscriminate design proposals due to excessive competition that could delay projects.
In the case of Daewoo E&C, which is competing with Samsung C&T for the Gaepo Woosung 7th contract, it previously proposed constructing a 90-meter-long Sky Bridge along with private lounges, guesthouses, and party spaces.
Samsung C&T has structured the outer parts of the complex to be low-rise (10 stories or less) and the center to be high-rise (29 to 35 stories), reflecting the recent policy of Seoul City to build a 'natural skyline' in line with the content of the Gaepo Woosung 7th maintenance plan.
Samsung C&T stated that it conducted artificial intelligence simulations to protect the sunlight rights of nearby schools, such as Younghee Elementary and Jungdong High School, ensuring more than two hours of continuous sunlight while complying with related laws 100%.
Kim Myung-seok, head of the housing business division at Samsung C&T (vice president), said, 'The business conditions promised to the members must be upheld,' adding that 'with Samsung C&T's extensive experience in approvals and technical expertise, it will realize a swift and stable project.'