(Photograph by tqtq studio)
Sinwol 1-dong Community Service Center is a project that aims to change the space from a public service/administration-oriented space to a community-centered space. The goal of the project was to break away from a uniform administrative space through the process of communication and cooperation of residents, architects, and administrators, and to revitalize it as a space for Sinwol 1-dong residents, according to attributes of the town community.
The Sinwol 1-dong Community Service Center, which has a lot of vulnerable groups, has many visitors appealing for unjust treatment every day. Serious conflict occurs occasionally because the center is their main point of contact with the government. First and foremost, in a place where hearing out and understanding people’s stories is so crucial, there was a need for space where residents could sit down and talk to someone about their situations. We set up an independent public service conference room and a waiting area by installing the Friendly Talk Wall, which allows intensive dialogue to be held at eye level. It also prevents being distracted by the many complaints being discussed inside the public service room.
The sub-entrance of the Sinwol 1-dong community service center, which is over 20 years old, is located on the main road. A neglected flower bed, a steel bulletin board, a bicycle rack, and an air conditioner outdoor unit was laying here and there beside the sub-entrance. In order to make the community service center better noticed, we designed the sub-entrance to be the main entrance. By recycling the abandoned garden space, we created a step garden to be used as a rest area for residents.
In addition, we moved the dong chief’s room to the second floor to expand the staff workspace and the public service waiting area, and also made use of the vestibule. We also provided a staff lounge for a better working environment, as well as an independent consultation room, which creates an improved space for residents.