[Space]Reporter’s Visit | A Building Embracing the Sea: The Spirit of Shipping at HMM Headquarters

22 Oct 2024


In our latest RSQUARE DESIGN client space tour, we explored the headquarters of HMM, South Korea's largest shipping company, formerly known as Hyundai Merchant Marine.


Given the nature of a shipping and logistics company, most of HMM’s workforce operates internationally or "on the sea." Yet, the headquarters in Yeouido encapsulates their maritime identity in every corner of the space.


 RSQUARE_headquarters of HMM

 headquarters of HMM

RSQUARE_Designing with Maritime Motifs

Designing with Maritime Motifs


The office’s unique design incorporates container-like structures to reflect HMM's core business. The lobby walls, adorned with blue wave-like patterns, mimic the flow of ocean water, bringing a vibrant, marine ambiance to the building.


RSQUARE_HMM office hallways

RSQUARE_HMM office hallways

RSQUARE_HMM office hallways

HMM office hallways


In the hallways, scale models of actual HMM vessels are displayed, giving visitors a tangible sense of the company’s impressive fleet and stature.


RSQUARE_HMM cafe lounge

HMM cafe lounge


One of the most striking features of HMM’s headquarters is the “open” feel. Located high above central Yeouido, the office takes advantage of its panoramic glass walls, allowing sweeping views of the Han River and the city below. 


RSQUARE_HMM Openness and Scenic Views

Openness and Scenic Views


Around these windows, seating and rest areas have been thoughtfully arranged to maximize the scenic beauty. 


알스퀘어 기자탐방기_HMM 통창 주변에 테이블과 휴식 공간

알스퀘어 기자탐방기_HMM 카페 로비와 회의실을 연결하는 중간 계단

알스퀘어 기자탐방기_HMM 카페 로비와 회의실을 연결하는 효율적인 동선

RSQUARE_Efficient Layout and Employee Convenience

Efficient Layout and Employee Convenience


The layout is optimized for employee convenience, including strategically placed staircases for easy access between floors. Common areas, such as the café lounge and meeting rooms, are linked for efficient movement. A large digital display in the lobby showcases HMM’s fleet traveling around the world in real-time, highlighting its status as a global leader.


RSQUARE_HMM Rechargeable rest area, game zone

Rechargeable rest area, game zone 

RSQUARE_HMM elegant meeting room

elegant meeting room


The relaxation zones are designed with luxury and functionality in mind. In the gaming zone, employees can recharge, while the elegant meeting rooms offer stunning views of Yeouido. Recently, during the Seoul Fireworks Festival, the company even opened its doors to employees and their families, creating lasting memories in the space.


RSQUARE_HMM Multi-Functional Spaces and Corporate Identity

Multi-Functional Spaces and Corporate Identity


The building’s auditorium serves dual purposes for employee training and external events, with container-styled wall elements reinforcing HMM's brand identity.


RSQUARE_HMM wellness counseling room

wellness counseling room

RSQUARE_HMM snack refrigerator

snack refrigerator 


Additional amenities, such as a wellness counseling room and a snack refrigerator, underscore the company’s commitment to employee health and well-being.


RSQUARE_HMM A Harmonious Blend of Colors

A Harmonious Blend of Colors


The color scheme throughout is a balanced mix of monochromatic tones with accents of blue and red, embodying HMM’s brand. These contrasting yet complementary colors seamlessly capture the distinct characteristics of a maritime company.


HMM headquarters feels like a vessel on the ocean, where employees and visitors alike experience the spirit of the sea. And yes, the coffee here—priced affordably at about a dollar—left quite an impression during this visit!


RSQUARE_HMM CAFE







Ji-Ae Park, Reporter at Edaily 

※ The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and may not reflect the views of the company.

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CEO : LEE JOHN WOO         Business registration No : 110-81-88092         Office : 311, Teheran-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul        Tel : 1551-5678

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