Memorial Site
About two decades ago, the South Korean government hosted a “housing expo” in Seoul, creating a low-rise residential area known as the “exhibition city.” Each building in this area was designed by one of the most renowned architects in South Korea at the time. The GaOnJai house was among these buildings. After purchasing the property, the current owner demolished the original structure and constructed a new residence on the site.
Client Requirements
Maximize Land Use: The owner aimed to utilize the land as efficiently as possible, while creating an ecological space. The previous house’s external areas were too narrow, and many interior spaces lacked natural light.
Introverted Layout: To ensure safety and privacy, an inward-facing design was requested, helping to block noise and smoke while maintaining a clear view of the interior.
Integration of Surrounding Mountain Views: The living area was designed to be dynamic, with the client requesting expansive views oriented toward the nearby mountains.
Cultural Identity
The building’s design needed to reflect Korean cultural heritage, as this small town is regarded as a prime example of traditional Korean housing.
The project incorporates traditional Korean architectural elements, including Madang (courtyard), Ru (elevated structure), Cheoma (cantilevered roof), and Doldam (stone wall).
By incorporating the Madang concept, an inner courtyard was introduced to meet the client’s needs for an inward-facing layout, ecological environment, and practical outdoor space, resulting in a natural and healthy living environment surrounded by landscape.
The architect incorporated the Korean Ru style—an elevated ground-level structure—drawing on the diverse and unique landscape of the surrounding mountains. The mountain views were integrated along the axis of the living space, with the elevation symbolizing the beginning of a sequence of diverse residential spaces, evoking a cave-like atmosphere.
The design also features a Cheonma style cantilevered roof, which not only withstands harsh weather conditions but also modernizes traditional architectural language. The walls are adorned with elliptical patterns inspired by traditional Korean stone walls, preserving a connection to the past.
Terrain Layout
The design adapts to the existing terrain by arranging various indoor spaces across different levels, from lower to higher Madang courtyards, creating an engaging connection between them. This approach reflects a fundamental characteristic of Korean architectural culture.
Leisure Path
The spatial layout of this residence is connected through an engaging circulation route that links indoor and outdoor spaces, as well as their visual connections. This design encourages residents to enjoy a rich living experience without monotony, offering a personal retreat along the leisure path.
Project Drawings
▲ First Floor Plan
▲ Second Floor Plan
▲ Roof Plan
▲ Front Elevation
▲ Rear Elevation
▲ Left Elevation
▲ Right Elevation
▲ Section 1
▲ Section 2
▲ Section 3
▲ Section 4
Project Information
Project Type: Independent Residential Building
Location: Chengnan City, South Korea
Architectural Design: Jin Xiaowan Architectural Firm
Area: 329.0 m²
Year: 2013
Photographers: Jong Oh Kim, Sergio Pirrone, Jeong Sik Mun
Manufacturer: VMZINC
Chief Architect: HyoMan Kim
Design Team: Kyung Jin-Jung, SeungHee-Song, SuKyung-Jang, JiYeon-Kim, EunJin-Sin, HyeJin-Kim, WooSin-Sim
Contractor: JEHYO
Site Area: 643.5 m²
Building Area: 319.96 m²
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