Cheonggyecheon restored river

One of the most notable examples of modern landscape architecture is Seoul's Cheonggyecheon.  It represents the relatively new trend of trying to recover elements of lost ecology while still inserting new elements of urban design.  The NY Times reviewed this revolutionary design in 2009 and was able to take photos that were less gloomy than mine.

My personal experience was that I was surprised by the variety in experiences. There are sections that work to replicate natural processes (as much as you can in a concrete canyon).  And others that work for a modern, urban hardscape feel.  As a daylighted stream, it helps soften the 2nd largest city in the world.  And, at a reported 5km long, it leaves a noticeable footprint in the urban landscape.

More photos after the jump...