Architect Sophie Hicks Reflects on Seoul Projects and Design Philosophy

In 2013, architect Sophie Hicks was commissioned by Jonny Johansson to create the Acne Studios store located in the Cheongdam district of Seoul. This building is characterized by a translucent polycarbonate façade and an interior referred to as the "concrete monster." In 2022, Hicks finalized the 025S building for Pointtwofive.Second in Seongsu-dong, which features a sculpture by Choi Goen. Beginning her fashion career at Tatler in the late 1970s, she designed her inaugural shop for Paul Smith in 1994 and has worked with several fashion brands, including Chloé, for whom she created 100 stores. Recently, she also completed the Max Mara flagship in Paris, collaborating with local architect Doran Kim on the 025S project. Hicks observes Seoul's evolution from agricultural land to a bustling city.