Hidden Past and Thoughtful Transformation
Nestled behind a narrow alley in Yeonhui-dong, Seoul, the “Saekdong House” by architects Isak Chung and Jinpyo Hong revitalizes a 1968-built residence through innovative renovation and thoughtful extension. The renovation transforms this historic building, originally designed with elevated floors and ceilings intended to pull in more daylight. The house features an air-raid shelter from past tensions with North Korea, now cleverly integrated into the modern spatial plan.
The Courtyard Intervention: A New Design Era
In a bold move, the old living room has been replaced with an open courtyard, bringing daylight into the existing structures and ventilation. This design transfers the building’s coverage to a new annex in the southern yard, optimizing spaces that were previously shrouded in shadow by neighboring buildings. The transformation reimagines these spaces, with timber framing now reinforcing these structures, complemented by a low-ceilinged corridor that connects the reorganized spaces.
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Mastering Contrast with Saekdong Inspiration
Inspired by the traditional Korean saekdong technique, where contrasting fabrics are combined, this project embraces visible distinctions between elements. Throughout, the project evolves by making old and new coexist vividly, with timber and fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) juxtaposing enclosed rooms and open courtyards. The patchwork approach promotes harmony within a seemingly disjointed environment.
Throughout Saekdong House, architecture reflects this philosophy, blending different materials and spaces without enforcing uniformity.
A Unified yet Varied Domestic Landscape
By embracing the house’s unique characteristics, this renovation turns challenges into features. The once-overlooked urban plot and aging structures become integral to a home that feels uniquely assembled. The design reinvents the previously underutilized spaces into vibrant living areas.
Contrasting materials and timber details breathe warmth into the interiors, while a jade-green eave offers protection from the elements, sheltering circulation around the exterior.
Seamless Connection and Natural Illumination
With its new annex extending towards the southern yard, Saekdong House crafts a compact and cohesive living experience. The project unfolds as a sunken passage brings daylight into the lower level into every corner of the refurbished interior.
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Old and new materials interweave, presenting simple yet striking details that define the renewed home.
The project stands as a testament to innovative adaptive reuse, weaving history into a modern tapestry that’s both functional and evocative. The transformation exceeds expectations, exemplifying how historical context and modern design can coexist harmoniously.
Source: designboom.com
Frequently asked questions
How does Saekdong House bring daylight into the space?
The old living room has been replaced with an open courtyard, bringing daylight into the existing structures and ventilation. Additionally, a sunken passage brings daylight into the lower level and every corner of the refurbished interior.
What architectural technique inspired Saekdong House design?
The project is inspired by the traditional Korean saekdong technique, where contrasting fabrics are combined. This approach leads to a patchwork design promoting harmony within a seemingly disjointed environment.
How does the renovation affect the house’s urban plot and structures?
The renovation turns the once-overlooked urban plot and aging structures into integral parts of a uniquely assembled home. The previously underutilized spaces are reinvented into vibrant living areas.