Residents in old apartments in South Korea are in need of having it either remodeled or rebuilt. Residents should agree for one of the two and the current trend tells us that many of them want the latter which requires money first of all followed by choosing a developer. More often than not, finding a good developer is more difficult than raising the construction cost. However, Seocho Grand Xi has set a good example on this and <PowerKorea> sat down with Daehwan Gu, President of the Secho Grand Xi Reconstruction Association, to learn the story. 

Gu obtained Architectural Engineer Certificate during his university years, earned a doctor of law at The University of Sheffield UK, and currently is serving as a law professor at University of Seoul. Leading the reconstruction of Seocho Grand Xi, he has proved his ability and leadership as well as knowledge in the field by successfully wrapping up the all rebuilding process clean and nice. Behind this success lies his unwavering principle 'resident-centered and transparency-driven'. All process no matter how trivial it seemed were opened to all resident transparently as well as the bidding procedure between the developers. He used most of his negotiation ability to secure around $10 million worth free exterior design package, 9 meter high pilotis, extended underground parking lot to 3rd level with a wide 2.5 meter space per vehicle, and a free underground storage per household from GS E&C. Also came with were German HAKER kitchen and Spanish INALCO ceramic stones. The 9 meter tall sculpture at the front gate is melted with artist's endeavor to express four seasons in a steel tree while more than 100 minor sculptures stand here and there around the apartment block. Walls of the underground parking lot are art works for residents to appreciate in and out of the vehicle everyday. The 9 meter high pilotis lets residents walk around the 9 semi-blocks of apartments like they walk a skywalk. While children's playgrounds, tea houses, falls and fountains, lawn and vegetable gardens, 26 seat gold class CGV cinema, music rooms, convention hall, fitness, indoor golf course and swimming pool are within the blocks, residents can enjoy the privilege of overlooking vehicles running on Gyeongbu Expressway yonder. 

It is not surprising that the overall design met the standards of Seoul Good Public Design that must satisfy design, path, space, eco-friendliness and remodeling-friendliness. Resident buildings with Seoul Good Public Design are entitled to extend balcony to 100% of the general 70% and many more. 

"Maintenance is equally important as rebuilding so I will do my utmost best to keep the vibe and quality of living rolling at all times" says Gu. <PowerKorea>

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