With the R5 research building, NBBJ developed an integrated architecture and landscape concept to reinforce Samsung’s brand and unify the larger R&D campus.

With the global success of Samsung Electronics, the company has rapidly expanded its research headquarters in Suwon, South Korea to stay atop of the high-tech electronics and digital media fields. R5, the campus’ third phase of development, houses R&D offices and laboratories in two towers, linked by a podium of employee amenities that encourage engineers to meet and share innovative ideas. With special labs facing Samsung Boulevard, and an exhibition hall at the southern corner, the complex engages with the world to show off the Samsung brand.

The R5 building additionally needed a landscape that would connect to R3, R4, and the rest of the campus. A strong east-west pedestrian promenade now links all of the R&D buildings, establishing a simple, linear, expandable system for future growth. The landscape addresses essential functions of access and parking, but also creates a welcoming, visually rich environment through the pattern, massing, and detailing of the hardscape and planting beds, shaded by a grid of tall trees.

In addition to the ground level, several roof gardens were also developed at the dining and executive levels. Architectural screens, pergolas, and green walls covered in vining plants help to establish intimate, outdoor rooms. Custom benches of stone and perforated metals provide a place to relax, while textural plantings of ornamental grasses and groundcovers soften the roof surface.

The Korea Herald, "Samsung seeks evolution with new Silicon Valley base,” September 2013