Seoul is a bustling metropolis with a rich history and a vibrant culture. As an urban sketcher, I love exploring the city and capturing its unique character in my sketches. One aspect of the city that I find particularly fascinating is its architecture, especially its apartment buildings.
Seoul is home to a diverse range of apartment buildings, each with its own unique style and design. From the modern high-rises of Gangnam to the traditional courtyard houses of Bukchon, the city is a treasure trove of architectural wonders waiting to be discovered.
One of my favorite buildings to sketch in Seoul is the famous Daelim Apartment Building in Jongno-gu. Built in 1968, the Daelim is a prime example of Brutalist architecture, with its imposing concrete facade and geometric shapes. Despite its stark appearance, the building is also known for its lush rooftop garden, which provides a welcome oasis of greenery in the heart of the city.
Another noteworthy building in Seoul is the iconic Tetris Apartments in Gangnam-gu. Designed by architect Woo Ji-won, the building features a striking facade made up of interlocking blocks of varying sizes, reminiscent of the classic video game. The Tetris Apartments have become a beloved landmark in Seoul, and are a popular subject for urban sketchers.
One of the challenges of sketching apartment buildings in Seoul is capturing their sense of scale and grandeur. Many of the buildings are massive, towering over the surrounding streets and dwarfing nearby structures. To convey this sense of scale in my sketches, I like to use a combination of techniques, including perspective drawing, crosshatching, and watercolor washes.
Watercolor is particularly effective in capturing the unique colors and textures of the buildings. I like to use a limited palette of warm and cool grays, with pops of color to highlight specific details. For example, the bright yellow accents on the Tetris Apartments or the verdant greens of the Daelim’s rooftop garden.
Overall, urban sketching in Seoul is a wonderful way to explore the city’s rich architectural heritage and capture its unique character. Whether you’re a seasoned sketcher or a newcomer to the art form, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant and bustling city. So grab your sketchbook and pencils, and start exploring the fascinating world of Seoul’s apartment buildings!
See my urban sketches on insta @bolinasfrank
