UNStudio reveals plans for world's tallest Ferris wheel in Seoul
Dutch firm UNStudio has unveiled the design for the Seoul Twin Eye spokeless Ferris wheel in Seoul, which will consist of an intersecting double-ring structure on top of a cultural complex.
Designed in collaboration with Arup and Heerim Architects, the 180-metre-high Ferris wheel will be built alongside the city's World Cup Stadium along the Han River. When complete it will be the world's largest Ferris wheel in operation following the closure of the Ain Dubai in the UAE.
UNStudio has revealed its design for world's tallest spokeless Ferris wheel in Seoul
UNStudio was informed by Honcheonsigye – a 17th-century South Korean astronomical clock – for the dual-ringed design.
The Ferris wheel will have two 180-metre-diameter tracks that will form loops that converge as a symbol of unity, according to the studio.
The Ferris was conceived as a symbol of unity for the city with an intersecting double-ringed structure
The tracks will hold 64 passenger pods in total carrying 20-25 people each and up to 1,400 people simultaneously, double the capacity of the Marks Barfield Architects-designed London Eye.
Projecting out from the structural rings, the pods will revolve around both the inside and outside of Seoul Twin Eye, creating two distinct rides for passengers to experience.
64 passenger pods will revolve around Seoul Twin Eye's inner and outer tracks
The Ferris wheel will be integrated into a 40-meter-high podium, which will establish a new cultural hub connected to the World Cup Stadium.
The podium will house an exhibition space and performance hall, as well as shops, restaurants and cafes.
The Seoul Twin Eye will be connected to nearby public transportation by a monorail, which is also being designed by UNStudio.
A zip line experience also forms part of the studio's plan.
The studio will integrate the wheel into a raised podium below
The project is planned as part of a wider initiative by the local government to develop new public and cultural spaces along the Han River.
Construction is due to commence in 2025 with the attraction set to open in 2028.
A monorail and zip line form additional pieces of UNStudio's wider plan for the site
UNStudio was founded in 1998 by Ben van Berkel and Caroline Bos and has offices in Amsterdam, Frankfurt, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Dubai and Austin.
The studio recently revealed its design for two high-rise towers in Düsseldorf featuring staggered terraces and a children's museum in Qatar comprised of interconnected blocky forms.
The imagery is courtesy of UNStudio.