Circular Rhapsody

A Symphony of Space, Form, and Function

This project redefines maximalism not through ornate decoration, but through architectural planning and programmatic density. Set within a rational, four-story brick building defined by a 1:3 bay ratio, the design introduces circular forms to break spatial monotony and infuse the structure with dynamic, flowing energy. The building is transformed into a multi-use commercial center featuring six distinct yet interconnected functions. Each function is housed within its own cylindrical zone, emphasizing individuality while maintaining coherence through the shared visual language of circles. Circles appear both structurally and symbolically—through partitions, lighting, flooring, and circulation paths—creating “soft” and “hard” spatial boundaries.

By layering diverse programs within a compact footprint and unifying them through circular spatial logic, the project offers a maximalist experience through architectural rhythm and function, not decoration—each space its own “rhapsody,” playing in harmony.

Basement Level: Hydroponic Garden and Salad Bar

The hydroponic garden is designed not only for functionality but as an immersive spatial and visual experience. It introduces plant life into the architecture, using the structure itself as a framework for growth and visual continuity.

The design leverages the building’s existing structural columns to create a rhythmic, vertical hydroponic system. Around each of these existing columns, a hydroponic sleeve column is wrapped—a modular system that allows for nutrient-rich water circulation and plant growth without soil. Where structural columns do not exist, the pattern is completed using lightweight wireframe structures that mimic the geometry and spacing of the real columns.

The ground floor serves as both threshold and nucleus of the building — a place where public access, daily commerce, and creative culture converge. Each program is contained in a cylinder or defined circular area, establishing both identity and rhythm, yet the edges remain porous enough to allow light, movement, and curiosity to pass through.

The pot shop is more than a retail space —it’s an educational and sensory experience centered around sustainability, cultivation, and wellness.

Liquid circulates from top to bottom, moving through the roots of plants, nutrition solution pumped up from bottom tank to the top tray, creating continuous circulation.

Beyond the building’s interior, the language of circles extends into the exterior landscape, reinforcing the project's core spatial identity and inviting public engagement. Two key outdoor elements—an amphitheater and a power/supply hub for food trucks—are designed using circular geometries to function both aesthetically and practically.

Positioned adjacent to the main building, the circular amphitheater acts as a social anchor and an extension of the interior program. It is a sunken, concentric arrangement of terraced seating, formed by shallow retaining walls clad in brick to echo the building’s original materiality.

Opposite the amphitheater is a circular utility hub, designed as a service core for rotating food trucks and mobile vendors. This "power ring" provides shared infrastructure in a clean, organized manner.

Level 3 & 4: Co-working offices, Pescatarian Restaurant and Roof Bar

Located on the upper floors, the pescatarian restaurant is designed as a refined, formal dining environment, offering a sensory journey through space, light, and cuisine. The entire space is defined by a large cylindrical volume, reinforcing the architectural motif of circularity as a spatial experience rather than just a decorative gesture.

The restaurant features a gently sloping ramp that spirals around the central circular structure, allowing guests to move slowly through the space and fully experience its architectural rhythm. This continuous pathway offers an uninterrupted, intuitive circulation route leading seamlessly to the rooftop bar."