The story of this house is simply alluring; exactly like the house itself. Once upon a time (barely twenty years ago to be honest) the Korean government promoted a housing expo in the Gangnam district. For this special occasion, a new town was built conceived as an astonishing neighbourhood of constructions, designed by the most brilliant and popular architects of that time.
In particular, Iroje Khm Architects built a unique structure, dedicated to a single demanding client. As a matter of fact, his challenging wish was to see a structure able to efficiently make use of the surrounding land of the previously demolished residence. This was not his only wish tough; he desired to entre a space that was open and intimate at the same time, an introverted garden space, a connection with the surrounding sphere, as well as a room detached from the rest of the world.
Needless to say, the architects did a great job: opting for traditional Korean techniques such as the “ru”, pilotis giving support to the structure while keeping the environment open, or the “madang”, the typical Korean inner court, is certainly an impressive choice. The environment is complex but extremely linear and the past and the present are well amalgamated in a tangled game of sharp shapes.
A touch of genius? No doubt about it: the “cheoma”, or cantilevered roof, is the only dark element of the structure that uses irregular footprints and large open spans. White is just everywhere, interrupted only by the circular punch-outs on the walls at the entrance, representing the stone vernacular.
If you pass by this remote country, take into serious consideration visiting this masterpiece. It’s worthwhile.
Feb. 4, 2014
Beckmans College of Design
British Higher School of Art and Design
Central Saint Martins
Harrington College of Design
LOFT 42
World Architecture Festival
