S P A T I A L E X P L O R A T I O N & C R E A T I V E T H I N K I N G Portfolio SELECTED (2025) Jaeyoung Joo
JAEYOUNG JOO KIRA, LEED AP BD+C jjy0816@gmail.com 2001-2006
Architecture, to me, is a synthesis of innovation, heritage, and human experience—a practice that transcends the physical to shape communities and narratives. Growing up with a fascination for assembling and creating, I was drawn to design from an early age.
My professional foundation was laid at HEERIM Architects & Planners in Seoul, where I gained six years of invaluable experience across diverse projects. During my tenure, I spent two years specializing in BIM, mastering advanced Revit modeling, and training programs for team development. These experiences solidified my technical expertise and deepened my appreciation for the intersection of technology and design.
A pivotal chapter in my journey unfolded at PeterPran+H in New York City, where I engaged in international competitions for churches, hospitals, and hospitality projects. This exposure broadened my horizons and ignited my ambition to evolve as a globally minded designer. Motivated by this vision, I pursued a Master of Architecture at the University of Florida, focusing on harmonizing heritage conservation with contemporary innovation. Through roles such as a research assistant for 3D laser scanning and point cloud analysis, I explored the intricate balance of preserving the past while designing for the future.
Professionally, my path has encompassed diverse roles in the United States and South Korea. At TVSDESIGN in Atlanta, I contributed to significant convention center and master planning projects, collaborating across all phases of design. As an adjunct professor at Gachon University, I had the privilege of mentoring the next generation of architects, fostering their exploration of advanced concepts and methodologies.
Establishing Studio Joo Architect in Seoul allowed me to lead projects that seamlessly integrate cultural identity and contemporary functionality. Most recently, as Design & BIM Manager at Hyundai ECI Services in Saudi Arabia, I have supported the design and construction of large-scale, confidential projects, focusing on constructability, sequencing, and strategic planning.
As a Registered Architect (South Korea), LEED AP BD+C, and certified Architectural Engineer, my design philosophy revolves around creating architecture that resonates with its environment and enriches human lives. I believe that architecture is not merely about constructing buildings but about crafting meaningful spaces that embody sustainability, cultural continuity, and innovation.
Ultimately, my work aspires to bridge the timeless and the contemporary, shaping environments that celebrate the richness of human experience and the enduring dialogue between the past, present, and future.
Jaeyoung
Joo
Las Vegas Convention Center
Associate at TVSDESIGN, 2019
In addition to upgrades to the existing spaces, the project scope also includes some strategic additions and enhancements as outlined below: 1. Addition of a new Grand Lobby, similar in area to the new Phase 2 lobby, by expanding the footprint of the existing grand lobby 2. A significant transformation of the grand concourse that runs along the north of Central hall, connecting the grand lobby to the Blue Lot entry. 3. The extension of the ribbon roof across Paradise, along the building facades facing the silver lot and southward to the south-west lobby. The roof form will be an icoic architectural expression that delivers a consistent visual identity to the entire campus. 4. Add alternate: The creation of an indoor connector concourse such that visitors can circulate between the grand lobby and the south lobby without going outside. 5. Enlargement of pre-functon spaces at the south-west lobby.
Javit Convention Center
Design Professionnal at TVSDESIGN, 2017
LOCATION NYC
SIZE 1.2M sf
TYPE CONVENTION CENTER EXPANSION ROLE 2D+3D DRAWINGS, VERTICAL CIRCULATION / EGRESS
An Evaluated’Parti’ - An expanded Javits with internally/efficiently managed service truck traffic, increased rentable function space, respect for adjacent Architecture, and leveraged urban location are the basic part of our team’s ‘Parti’. The basic organizational diagram of the Indicative Design successfully dealt with the parameters of both site and program, locating the major pieces of function appropriately with respect to necessary adjacencies. This sample layout of the Program remains intact within this proposal - but not without rigorous analysis. Using the Alternate Technical Concepts (ATC’s) and Own-
er RFI’s, we took a detailed look at the ‘bones’ of the program and the functional organization of the parts in an effort to seek out engineering efficiencies, verify operational fit, confirm appropriate material selections, and identify additional urban design opportunities. The Design Excellence imbedded in this proposal begins with this tested ‘parti’, evaluated for cost and value against these base tenets.
The ‘Bones’ of the Program - With many convention centers considering expansion, the primary goal is to maintain a customer base while reaching new markets in a changing and competitive environment. To accomplish this, the Javits expansion program addresses two goals - first, to incorporate an efficiently organized internal truck marshalling facility, and second, to expand the size and type of flexible meeting, banquet, and exhibition spaces. The program looks to the principals of good convention center design.
AXONOMETRIC DIAGRAM
DESIGN DECISION PROGRESS AT CONCOURSE WALL
Guri Masterplan
Associate at TVSDESIGN, 2019
LOCATION GURI CITY, KOREA
TYPE MASTER PLAN CONCEPT DESIGN
ROLE MASTERPLAN PHYSICAL STUDY, PRESENTATION
The ID9 in Guri City, South Korea is the most coveted city scale development near metro Seoul with astonishing views overlooking the Han River. The project goal is to realize 9 innovations in design symbolic of the 9 historic villages informing the city name, ‘GURI”. The 9 design innovation keywords are, Exhibition, Business, Life style, Cultural, Sustainable, Music, Technology, Smart and Entertainment. ID9 is focused on a sustainable MICE (Meeting, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions) industry development. Its design criteria include low carbon transport to city and venues, premium international standards for venue and facility services, activities and events based on cultural identity of the city, businesses that showcase social and environmental responsibility, world-class standards for the quality of life and well-being of all residents, and creating a sustainable MICE prototype for the next generation in Korea. The elevated “Green Fingers”, a comprehensive network of dedicated pedestrian circulation linking the entire districts of ID9, present tangible evidence of the commitment of the ID9 stakeholders towards an innovative, rewarding and sustainable live/work/play environment unlike any other in the world.
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PHASE-III
SITE PLAN
1. ELEVATED WALKWAY “ GREEN FINGER ” AS A CONNECTING ELEMENT
2. LANDMARK TOWERS + DESIGN CENTER “ CURVATURE OF KOREAN DRESSES ” AS A SYMBOLIC FORM OF ICONIC TOWER
3. WATER + RETAIL PROMENADE “ CANAL STREET ” AS AN ORGANIZING ELEMENT
PHASE-III
PHASE-I
PHASE-II
SIGNATURE THREE-TOWER
Respecting the stature of Acha Mountain, the office, hotel and residential towers reach sweeping heights, with the tallest standing at 220m. Vertically clear from flight zone restriction, these landmark towers offer premium views of the Han River. The lower body of each tower rises as one, then separates at the upper body to give the appearance of two buildings blossoming out of one, totaling six. Inspired by Hanbok’s curvature and layers, each tower gives different looks from different perspectives. The lower level and underground are connected by retail space and the new transit center proving convenient and enjoyable access to the convention center.
THE LINEAR PARL / GREEN STREET
1. Along all streets, a lush landscape edge provides a buffer from vehicular travel, while providing a stormwater and habitat function
2. Each of the linear parks should mimic the form and texture of the green finger that is adjacent (i.e. mountains, agrarian, river and city)
3. Utilize space under the green finger for a multi-use path and mixture of activity space and artful elements
4. Provide areas for seating and outdoor dining where commercial or retail space is the ground floor use
5. Large residential parks will create a green necklace through the center of site, providing ample space for large activities and respite from the city
THE WATER LOOP EDGE
1. At the intersection of the canal/street/green finger, utilize areas to terrace down and allow seating and dining for ground floor retail
2. Linear and sinuous planting along the street edge blur the line between nature and urban
3. Wetland plants provide a filtering layer to stormwater from the development
4. Multi-use path along the canal edge weaves in and out of the green finger above
THE BOULEVARDS
1. Allee of trees provide shade and seasonal interest, along with places for seating and dining along retail frontage
2. Create terraced gardens that provide vertical circulation
3. Along the upper edge of canal, design areas for raised planters and vegetation that cascade to the lower level, creating a seamless ‘green’ wall between levels
Guri Landmark Tower
Associate at TVSDESIGN, 2019
LOCATION GURI CITY, KOREA
SIZE 36,200 SM (B6F-49F)
TYPE PROGRAMING, CONCEPT DESIGN
ROLE DESIGN, 2D+3D DRAWINGS, PRESENTATION
Located immediately to the east of Seoul, Guri city is now one of the hottest areas in Korea, readily to be transformed into a new design hub in the Southeast Asian region.
Landmark towers, in the heart of Guri city, will set a new standard for a sustainable urban lifestyle promoting health and well-being of the local citizens. The inherent walking nature of the city’s people has been engrained into the project via its indoor & outdoor pedestrian walkways and jogging trails on two levels of the rooftop parks. Pedestrian walkways are intertwined through multiple levels of the podium providing infinite ways to explore the place depending on which direction to take on. Its central atrium with a large skylight is a wayfinding element that visually conects five levels of the podium spaces as well as the essential element of bringing daylight to basement levels.
As it stands as a visual landmark of Guri city, the programs of the project also become a cultural landmark. The state of art sports center, smaller scale retail shops, F & B outlets, and the rooftop park form a truely unique combination of programs. Landmark towers will be a special place in Guri city where people live, shop, learn, entertain and excercise all in one place.
OUTER SKIN COMPONENT
ACHA MOUNTAIN PINE TREE Pine trees are great treasure of Acha mountain. They complete the beautiful landscape of the mountain, and provide filtered air and cool temperature. Pine trees in Acha mountain are very famous for their beautiful curvature in form, and they compose spectacular perspectives along the hiking trail. Pine tree holds greater meaning to Acha mountain and Guri city because they have lived through the history of the city and Korea.
KOREAN PINE CONE Korean pine cones are petit and attractive. Their ability to close and open depending on the humidity of the mountain is applied to the skin design that can filter the hot sun light and cool down the space. The various sizes of opening also control views and privacy of interior spaces. Apart from its practicalities, the gradient of tower skin opening gives a dramatic texture which makes the tower a memorable landmark of the city.
DOUBLE SKIN FACADE
Not many residential buildings utilize double skin facade system but people increasingly realize that the upfront cost of double skin quickly pays off by the 4 following advantages.
1. REDUCED ENERGY CONSUMPTION
The cavity between the two layers can act as insulation during the colder months. This reduces the need to heat the inside of the building, eliminating reliance on HVAC systems and the cost of operating them.
2. NATURAL VENTILATION In warmer months, the air in the cavity between the two facade layers effectively monitors itself. Excess heat is drained out by air density difference between skin layers. This makes the inner skin cooler and less heat is coming through outer layer of skin.
3. ACOUSTIC INSULATION Sound insulation effectiveness can be greatly increased by incorporating perforated metals. Even if the internal windows are open, it provides similar
acoustic insulation as a single skin facade.
4. OCCUPANT COMFORT A perforated metal outer facade provides shading from direct sunlight while still allowing the passage of natural light. Windows can be open, which promotes natural ventilation while keeping acoustic insulation.
REPEATING UNIT FOR 70% OPENING TYPE
Three dimensional opening dramatically cuts down solar heat gain, yet preserves maximum view at eye level.
SKIN CONCEPT
THE SPORTS CENTER is one of the most exciting features of the development. It has two basement levels of facilities including a fitness center, a rock-climbing center, and an aquatic center. On the roof, 450 meter long jogging & walking trails connect two levels of rooftop parks. It is expected to be the most famous feature of the project for its uniqueness and convenience of location. The rock-climbing center located at the south main entry of the sports center has 20m high vertical continuous climbing surfaces visually open via glass walls at street and terrace level . Its size can easily host international level rock-climbing competitions drawing players and visitors beyond Guri city and metro Seoul.
THE BASIS OF UNIT LAYOUT follows current trends of residential towers in Korea for compatibility of construction industry, and for the trend sensitive Korean real estate markets. However, with unique exterior skin designs, larger window openings, and unconventional interior millwork design, living experiences will be elevated to a higher level. Each tower has its own club house and private outdoor garden on the podium rooftop park level providing easy access to rooftop sports facilities and jogging trails. Yet, landscape design cleverly secludes them from public views. Creating attractive communal spaces for residents will promote healthy and safe communities as individualism has become a serious social issue among younger generations. Landmark towers envision future trends of residential design.
BIG STEP
Chungbuk Content Business Incubation Center
Principal at STUDIO JOO ARCHITECT, 2023
LOCATION CHUNGBUK, KOREA
SIZE 4,148.20 SM (B1F-5F)
TYPE OFFICE BUILDING, DESIGN COMPETITION 3RD PRIZED
A Giant Leap Toward Entrepreneurship and Success
Breaking away from the conventional uniformity of office environments, we have restructured the program to foster innovation. Spaces for deep focus and interaction are distinctly separated, similarly sized areas are gradually arranged, and flexible spaces are optimized for greater efficiency. Shared offices and interaction-focused spaces are placed on lower levels to accommodate the demand for meetings and networking, while immersive workspaces are grouped on higher levels to enhance their functionality. A physical and cognitive distance is maintained between these two zones to ensure effective communication, with a middle layer designed to integrate services and interaction spaces seamlessly. Moreover, previously scattered small service spaces have been consolidated into a single large space, providing high-quality services while generating synergy. This consolidated area becomes a springboard for further growth and success.
The New Typology
This project is a dedicated space for content companies, designed to support the growth of startups from content planning to commercialization. The space is conceived as an open, integrated platform that enables free and convenient communication, moving away from one-directional thinking approaches.
Interaction
To facilitate free communication, an open and interactive spatial layout is essential. A central atrium design provides a sense of visual openness, complemented by skylights that allow natural light to flow in. Key networking and interaction spaces are located on the first and second floors, enhancing communication among occupants. Additionally, the shared hall features lounges of various sizes, rest areas, and meeting spaces to ensure convenience and efficiency.
Identity
The project’s identity reflects the step-by-step growth of content companies, from startup to maturity. Externally, the terraced outdoor rest areas are connected to the indoor community lounges. This design creates a continuous green space that links the ground-level front yard with rooftop gardens, emphasizing harmony with nature.
Efficiency
The workspace is centered around the atrium, with halls and corridors connecting meeting rooms and lounges. Individual offices are independently positioned on the south and east sides, considering orientation and views. The corridors are designed in a circular layout to ensure clear wayfinding and easy movement. Additionally, skylights provide ample natural light, creating a pleasant and comfortable work environment.
STEP UP!
SCENERY 4 HARMONY
Imsil Bandabi Sports Center
Principal at STUDIO JOO ARCHITECT, 2023
LOCATION CHUNGBUK, KOREA
SIZE 3,598.69 SM (2F)
TYPE SPORTS CENTER, DESIGN COMPETITION 3RD PRIZED
The proposal for the Imsil Bandabi Sports Center presents a comprehensive and harmonious vision that goes beyond a mere sports facility. It aims to create a warm community landscape where individuals with and without disabilities can naturally interact and share experiences. The four envisioned landscapes of harmony clearly define the direction for spatial design and utilization:
[Harmony People]
A communication landscape that eliminates the boundaries between people with and without disabilities, offering simple and intuitive spaces where everyone can interact and enjoy themselves freely.
[Harmony Sports]
A collaborative landscape where diverse sports spaces cater to various physical characteristics and are organically connected, enabling everyone to engage in sports and cooperate with one another.
[Harmony Function]
A landscape of authenticity where the functions and characteristics of spaces are honestly and harmoniously reflected, without exaggeration, to fulfill their intended purposes.
[Harmony Nature]
A healing landscape that not only serves the functional role of a sports center but also provides local residents with a place for relaxation and seamlessly integrates with the surrounding environment as a park-like space.
This approach seeks to break down physical and psychological barriers within the facility, fostering an ideal community center where all users can mutually respect and grow together. By implementing specific design elements and programs based on this vision, the sports center is expected to have an even greater positive impact on the local community.
Seoul Eoulim Sports Center
Sports facility for disabled and non-disabled people in Seoul
The purpose of Eoulim Sports Center is the establishment of a sport center shared seamlessly by disabled and non-disabled in the northeastern part of Seoul for its lack of sport infrastructure and large disabled population. Under this idea, the project will provide 13,500m 2 of specialized sports facilities for Paralympics, including two swimming pools, a bowling center with 32 lanes and a multipurpose gymnasium. The building will also incorporate and bury the existing public parking lot.
The strategies that set the design are divided into two: The first strategy intends the creation of two public spaces, each of them with a distinctive urban character, by moving each of the volumes horizontally in order to adapt to the site´s conditions and allow the natural light into the core of the building. First public space is formed by the lobby of the building and a space covered by a large cantilever that acts as an entrance plaza. The second is formed by the terraces that each of the volumes generates when moving, creating a stepped garden accessible from each of the levels. The second strategy arises from the need to protect the privacy of the apartments located behind the plot. The massing of the building opens onto the main street, emphasizing the public nature of the program.
The section of the building allows the access of north sunlight (no glare for sports practice) to each of the main uses. At the same time, it protects users privacy by blocking the view of the inside of the pools from the street. The three main uses above ground (the swimming pool, the multipurpose rooms for the disabled and the court) are visually connected so that the users of the center can be aware of other activities that are being carried out at the same time and motivate even more interest, participation and social adaptability.
Me, You, Our School
Ansung Inclusive School Proposal
Principal at STUDIO JOO ARCHITECT, 2022
LOCATION ANSUNG, KOREA
SIZE 9.771.76 SM (4F)
TYPE EDUCATIONAL, DESIGN COMPETITION 4TH PRIZED
From Specialized Education to Exceptional Education
Special education refers to providing tailored educational support to meet the unique needs of children with special requirements, considering both their commonalities with typical children and their distinctive characteristics. It is designed for children who require special attention and care, whether due to physical or mental needs, and encompasses education not only for children with disabilities but also for those who are exceptionally gifted.
This project seeks to propose spatial solutions that maximize developmental opportunities for children using the school, reflecting the unique characteristics of the educational programs. Rather than pursuing fleeting trends or superficial design approaches, this requires an in-depth analysis of programs and users, coupled with architectural methodologies. The goal is to create a truly exceptional educational environment that fosters growth and development for all.
Lotus Building
Happy Dream Welfare Center
Happy Dream Gangju Center is a landmark public building in Jeongchon-myeon, Jinju, designed to harmonize with the community while providing convenience, safety, and adaptability for future needs. At its core is a spacious circular community hall that connects seamlessly to facilities for children, families, and industrial support. The atrium design allows natural light through skylights, creating a dramatic atmosphere reminiscent of iconic spaces like the Pantheon or Guggenheim Museum. This versatile area accommodates diverse uses, such as corporate promotions and relaxation gardens. The multipurpose space, designed as a two-story open layout, supports events like festivals, sports, and screenings, extending into an outdoor plaza. Worker facilities, including a fitness room, meeting rooms, and offices, are located on the second floor for independence and functionality. The donut-shaped structure incorporates double-glazed glass and polycarbonate skin for soft lighting, while balconies add openness to meeting rooms and offices. Pixelated landscaping and rooftop gardens unify the design with the site, evoking a modern lotus flower and establishing the building as a refined, symbolic regional landmark.
Principal at STUDIO JOO ARCHITECT, 2021
Jinju Children Welfare Center
Happy Dream Welfare Center
Principal at STUDIO JOO ARCHITECT, 2021
LOCATION JINJU, KOREA
SIZE 6,926.66 SM (B3F-3F)
TYPE INSTITUTE, COMMUNITY CENTER, DESIGN COMPETITION ENTRY
The Jinju Multi-purpose Children’s Welfare Center is designed not as a symbolic or extravagant building, but as a warm, comfortable space that fosters a sense of attachment for its users. Upon entering with children, visitors pass through a spacious lobby to a forest and garden filled with natural sunlight. Around this central courtyard, spaces for reading, tea, and childcare are designed. To maximize shared public space, three programs are consolidated into one building, planned with three floors instead of four to optimize hall and corridor areas. Functionally, the administrative welfare center, multi-purpose children’s welfare center, and public parking share some common facilities, while each maintains independent circulation and security systems. The front plaza, central courtyard, and rooftop garden offer diverse community spaces that connect users with nature.
