Recent photographs have revealed the dramatic progress on Heatherwick Studio's ambitious Humanise Wall, a massive twisted structure that will serve as the centerpiece of the upcoming Seoul Biennale of Architecture and Urbanism. The impressive installation, measuring 90 meters long and rising four stories high, is currently under construction in Songhyeon Green Plaza park in central Seoul, with completion expected before the biennale opens later this month on September 26.
The newly released images showcase the wall's striking design features, including a chunky red steel framework that twists dramatically over a central opening. A secondary black steel structure covers much of the installation, creating a bold visual contrast. The photographs, taken by THEallim and Yongjoon Choi, demonstrate how the monumental piece is nearing its final form as workers continue assembly in the heart of South Korea's capital city.
According to Heatherwick Studio, the Humanise Wall was specifically designed to spark meaningful conversations about the quality of architecture in Seoul and its impact on residents. The studio explained that the installation "invites everyone to think about how the city makes you feel, and how the outsides of buildings affect your brain, your body and your behavior." This philosophy reflects the broader themes that will be explored throughout the biennale under the direction of Thomas Heatherwick, who serves as the event's general director.
When fully completed, the steel structure will be transformed with an elaborate display featuring large-scale text, artwork, and images of buildings from around the world. The exhibition will include both specially commissioned works created by the biennale team and numerous examples of buildings that Heatherwick Studio believes exemplify the principles of its Humanise campaign. Some panels have already been installed, showcasing notable projects such as Bureau de Change's The Interlock and The Broad museum designed by Diller Scofidio + Renfro.
The Humanise Wall will not stand alone in the plaza. Construction photos also reveal the frameworks for 24 smaller wall sections that will be created by an impressive roster of international creatives. The participating architects and designers include renowned firms such as Kengo Kuma and Associates, MAD, and Kéré Architecture, as well as celebrated fashion designer Stella McCartney. These additional installations will create a comprehensive display exploring the relationship between architecture and human experience.
The ambitious project builds directly on Heatherwick Studio's Humanise campaign, which was launched in 2023 and includes an associated book and radio series. The campaign's primary mission is to "spark public conversation about the way buildings make us feel," addressing the psychological and emotional impact of architectural design on urban dwellers. This initiative has gained international attention for its focus on the human-centered approach to architecture and urban planning.
The Seoul Biennale of Architecture and Urbanism will run from September 26 through November 18, 2025, providing visitors with extensive time to experience the Humanise Wall and related installations. The event represents a significant moment for Seoul's architectural community and offers an opportunity for international dialogue about the future of urban design and its relationship to human wellbeing in one of Asia's most dynamic cities.
