Our design direction for the new Novotel Dongdaemon was simplicity. Inspired by the contemporary and traditional sense of Korean culture and Korean design which advances the use of natural light, minimal use of color and pattern, the use of traditional Korean architecture and the use of natural materials. We were inspired by the Korean culture distinguished by the desire to make things simple, yet with depth and elegance.

Seoul is the soul of South Korea and Korean culture from early morning till late in the evenings, the sense of Korean culture is unique. The Dongdaemon historic and contemporary district within Seoul, vibrant with traditional and modern food and fashion markets, art museums equally inspired our design.

GROUND FLOOR LOBBY:
The ground floor lobby serves both the Novotel Hotel and the Novotel Residences and connects them to the energetic streets and Dongdaemon. We chose to create a “space within a space” formed by a wood structure of contemporary form yet inspired by the finely crafted traditional wood roof beams found in Korean temples. The traditional roof beams are placed vertically as two opposing, semi-circular screen walls which screen the opposing lobby street entrances. Natural Korean flamed finish granite stone set in a traditional pattern on the floors and walls combined with natural timber capture the Korean sense of material, texture and color. A corner café offers a venue for the guests, residents and outside guests.

20th FLOOR LOBBY, GOURMET BAR and FOOD EXCHANGE:
The 20th floor is the focal space and social hub for all guests and residents and include the hotel and residence check in lobby, the Novotel signature Gourmet Bar and Food Exchange F+B venues, the indoor pool and spa are all located within this floor. The individual spaces flow effortlessly and seamlessly together and partitioned by sliding translucent screens in a traditional sense of Korean architecture.

The entrance lobby area is spatially framed by a granite stone sculpture inspired by and a modern interpretation of the historic Dongdaemon East Gate. The Gourmet Bar is the focal point of the lobby space. The long bar extends to the indoor pool and pool terrace dramatically extending the bar and lobby spaces. Both spaces are bathed in animated light from skylights within the roof swimming pool and landscape pool features. The Food Exchange design is inspired by the local food markets with global and local cuisine show kitchens surrounded by low seating combined with café style and bench seating.

The materials are traditional yet contemporary Korean design in simplicity, color, texture and warmth. Natural granite stone paving and wall cladding provide a strong yet simple color and texture. Natural wood timber finishes and furniture provide a warmth and texture.

ROOF BAR:
The roof bar and pool deck connects directly to the 20th floor and offers spectacular 360 degree views of the Seoul Skyline and the mountains surrounding Seoul. Large timber decks surrounding the roof top pool combined with landscape planting by day create a resort atmosphere within the bustling Dongdaemon district. By night the roof becomes a party and event space unique to the district.

GUEST ROOMS| RESIDENT ROOMS:
The rooms capture the essence of contemporary Korean design by innovative use of space, light and material. The N Room open bath design allows natural light to fill the entire room and heightens the sense of space. A wood timber sliding panel provides privacy for the bath area. Stone tile and natural timber provide a traditional material richness and warmth. The room furnishings are loose fitting and residential in style. The bedded is a traditionally inspired yet modern and abstract.