Zang-zip Korean Indoor Street Bar by OMO-Studio: A Fusion of Tradition and Urban Aesthetics

Adaptive Reuse and Urban Atmosphere in Mullae-dong, Seoul

Located in the vibrant industrial district of Mullae-dong, Seoul, Zang-Zip Korean Indoor Street Bar is a project by OMO-Studio, an architectural firm known for its innovative adaptive reuse and renovation strategies. Spanning 56 square meters, this space reimagines the traditional PO.JANG.MA.CHA (or PO-CHA), a simple street pub, by integrating the raw, industrial charm of the neighborhood with a contemporary, indoor setting.

Industrial Aesthetics and Cultural Identity

Mullae-dong is characterized by a dense cluster of metal molding factories, shaping the local architectural landscape with high ceilings, massive folding metal doors, and bold signage in red, blue, and green hues. OMO-Studio’s design embraces these industrial elements while capturing the essence of Korea’s vibrant street bar culture.

Key architectural features include:

• Black concrete flooring, mimicking the asphalt of Seoul’s streets, blurring the boundary between indoor and outdoor spaces.
• Reclaimed aluminum doors from previous structures, preserving the historical context of the site.
• Slate roofing on select structures, enhancing the sensory experience by allowing visitors to hear the sound of raindrops, reminiscent of traditional Korean market settings.
• Foldable and stackable furniture, inspired by commonly used outdoor plastic tables, ensuring flexibility and efficient space utilization.

Spatial Configuration: Bringing the Street Inside

A defining feature of the PO-CHA concept is the direct interaction between the chef and customers, achieved by placing dining tables around an open kitchen. Traditionally, these establishments set up their seating along the streets, offering a casual and communal dining experience. Zang-Zip retains this open layout, fostering an inviting and dynamic atmosphere.

OMO-Studio further enhances the indoor street bar concept by:

• Utilizing bent and cut metal structures to reflect the factory-dominated surroundings.
• Adopting a low-saturation color palette for tables and signage, aligning with the muted tones of Mullae-dong’s industrial backdrop.
• Designing the auxiliary doors based on factory-style openings, reinforcing the seamless transition between the bar and its urban environment.

A Contemporary Take on Traditional Korean Social Spaces

Zang-Zip is more than just a bar; it is a reinterpretation of a longstanding cultural tradition, adapted to an indoor space without losing the spontaneity and warmth of its street-side counterpart. By thoughtfully integrating industrial textures, urban design principles, and cultural nostalgia, OMO-Studio successfully bridges past and present, tradition and modernity.

Project Details:

• Architects: OMO-Studio
• Lead Architect: Sangsu Yoo
• Location: Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul, South Korea
• Area: 56 m²
• Year of Completion: 2023
• Manufacturers: Hyundai L&C, Mapei
• Photography: Kim Yong-su