| Title |
A Study on Improving Architectural Planning in Apartment Complexes Designated as Special Architectural Districts |
| Authors |
최현순(Choi, Hyun-soon) ; 이충기(Lee, Chung-kee) |
| DOI |
https://doi.org/10.5659/JAIK.2026.42.4.13 |
| Keywords |
Special Architectural District; Apartment House; guideline; Special Application Plan |
| Abstract |
The Special Architectural District system was originally introduced to promote creativity in urban design and enhance public value. However,
recent applications have shifted toward selectively applying limited design elements to prioritize high-rise and luxury development for private
interests, resulting in outcomes that deviate from the system’s original intent. This study conducts a comparative analysis of architectural
plans for 20 apartment complexes designated as Special Architectural Districts by the Seoul Metropolitan Government. The analysis focuses
on special application items, site layout plans, maintenance plans, unit layout plans, and elevation designs. The findings indicate that most
special applications were limited to exemptions from height restrictions related to daylight rights. As a result, point-type layouts and
tent-shaped skylines dominated the site plans, suggesting a tendency to prioritize regulatory avoidance over improvements to the urban
landscape. In addition, the main building layouts, unit plans, and elevation designs showed limited design creativity, with little differentiation
from conventional apartment developments. Based on these findings, three key recommendations are presented. First, technical and institutional
requirements for the practical application of special provisions should be strengthened. Second, clear design guidelines and review systems are
needed to encourage creative architectural design. Third, more diverse building typologies and three-dimensional site planning approaches
should be promoted to enhance the urban landscape. Through these measures, the study aims to propose practical directions for design
improvement through system reform and to contribute to sustainable landscape planning and the restoration of public value in urban spaces. |