Design Group MECA: Redefining Urban and Environmental Spaces Through Human-Centered Design

Founded in 1989, Design Group MECA is a pioneering firm specializing in environmental design—a concept that was still unfamiliar in Korea at the time. Since its inception, the company has led numerous major domestic and international environmental design projects, establishing itself as a leader in the field. At its core is a human-centered design philosophy that seeks to preserve spatial identity and rediscover the value of urban environments.

Connecting People and Their Surroundings

Design Group MECA has been at the forefront of some of Korea’s most high-profile projects, including the Seoul World Cup Stadium, Daejeon World Cup Stadium, the 2002 FIFA Korea-Japan World Cup, the PyeongChang Winter Olympics, and the Busan Asian Games. The firm is particularly recognized for its integrated approach known as “Look Design,” which achieves a unified visual identity while emphasizing each project’s unique and regional characteristics. A prime example is the PyeongChang Olympics, where the visual language was inspired by the aesthetics of Hangul, introducing Korean culture to a global audience through graphic motifs. One of MECA’s greatest strengths is its holistic approach to spatial transformation. By breaking down the boundaries between graphic design, interior design, color planning, signage systems, and architecture, the firm assigns new identities to spaces through multidisciplinary collaboration. This approach not only enhances functionality but also promotes harmony between people and the environment, the city and nature. A notable case is the Seoul Metro Line 9 environmental design project, in which architects and designers collaborated from the planning stage to apply an integrated spatial design concept. The result was a distinctly different subway experience that later served as a reference for the remodeling of other subway lines.

Sustainability Beyond Aesthetics

Design Group MECA does not pursue beauty for its own sake. The firm aims for sustainable coexistence with the environment, harmonizing functionality and aesthetics in public spaces and creating designs that serve meaningful purposes. For instance, the no-smoking signage project for cultural heritage sites successfully balanced historical identity with modern usability. In infrastructure projects such as the Incheon Airport Railroad, the firm applied eco-conscious color schemes and efficient spatial layouts to help shape a sustainable future.

Global Reach and Distinctive Creativity

Beyond Korea, MECA has executed projects across the globe, including the Korean Consulate General in Nagoya, Japan, City Hall signage system in Algeria, and environmental design for the InterContinental Hotel in Angola. With originality at the forefront, Design Group MECA continues to reimagine spaces—not just as physical environments, but as meaningful experiences that connect people, place, and purpose.

Design Group MECA Enhances Cultural Value Through Spatial Renovation and Identity Design

Design Group MECA has also worked to elevate the cultural value of space through the renovation of Dongnae Station in Busan. Originally completed in 1934, the historic Dongnae Station was later designated as a Registered Cultural Heritage Site. Following restoration efforts, it was transformed into a public cultural space. While preserving the historical essence of the site, the redesigned space integrates interactive exhibitions and educational elements, making it a welcoming destination for families. The exterior features replicas of steam locomotives and railway tracks, recreating the original atmosphere of the train station. The interior utilizes the restored station building as a space for exhibitions and visitor engagement. Design Group MECA also developed the Brand Identity (BI) for Wirye Tram, which won a Red Dot Design Award this year. The eco-friendly tram system connects Seoul, Seongnam, and Hanam, and MECA’s identity design reflects both the connectivity and regional characteristics of the project.

A representative from Design Group MECA stated:

“Through diverse projects, we continue to create spaces that capture the unique character of cities and regions. Moving forward, we will focus on adding new value to people’s lives and designing for a more sustainable environment.”