A twisted loop hotel inspired by the ecological structure of plankton has been designed by architects Planning Korea and will be ready in time to host visitors to the 2018 Winter Olympics.
Located in Gangneung, on the east coast of South Korea, the beachfront resort hotel is situated about three miles (5km) from Olympic stadiums and facilities in PyeongChang.
Seoul-based Planning Korea’s design takes an infinity symbol form and features a glass facade – with the looping structure resembling a roller coaster track. Terrace gardens will line each slope of the resort, and include grassy floors and trees. At night, an LED system will help transform the glass on lower levels into a media screen.
It is envisaged that the 29,493sq m (317,460sq ft), 946-room hotel will offer a combination of marine and mountain leisure activities. A swimming pool will be suspended between the structure’s dual cores, while a sky deck on the hotel’s roof will offer scenic views.
At lower levels, the hotel assumes the form of a series of modernised versions of traditional Korean houses, called hanoks, with the aim of creating a village-like feel. Restaurants and retail outlets will feature.
After the Winter Olympics conclude, it is hoped that the resort hotel will become a prime location for conventions and other events.
