Located in Hangyoung Myeon on Jeju Island, the “Wind Home” is set to undergo a six-month renovation. Originally built in 2013, the building operated as an accommodation business for three years. Following the closure of the business, the structure stood abandoned for another three years, weathering the persistent sea breeze.
The first thing visitors notice about Geumdeung-ri 646 is the line of windmills standing tall above the waves, a clear reflection of the area’s strong winds. Locals and tourists alike often find their hair and hats swept by the relentless breeze, a charming scene that inspired the designers to embrace the theme of “wind” throughout the space and signage.
The floor gently extends into the hall space alongside a natural stone wall, as if pushed inward by the wind itself, transforming into sculptural built-in furniture.
Wood and plants have been thoughtfully arranged to soften the space, while the natural stone surfaces balance out the otherwise cool atmosphere.
The building comprises three floors, housing 18 rooms, two dormitories, a lobby, and a coffee shop.
In each room, certain walls intentionally reveal the texture of concrete foam, showcasing remnants of the building’s past life.
Imagine brushing your teeth at a sink positioned outside, allowing you to enjoy the view through the window. To avoid monotony, the design minimizes the use of ready-made furniture indoors, opting instead for custom pieces tailored to the space.
Given the strong sea breeze, the building was constructed following the original design, deliberately turning its back on the sea and facing north. The unconventional roof and protruding exterior walls, which may seem awkward at first, actually serve as windbreaks, justifying the building’s unique form.
We also collaborated with the original designer to create a new space that embraces the wind, despite the initial design’s unconventional orientation away from the sea.
This renovation was an imaginative journey, tracing the footsteps of previous occupants—revealed by a collapsed swimming pool, a neglected garden, absence of trees, patched walls, and gypsum ceiling lines. These remnants of time continually spark curiosity and inspiration.
The project concludes with planting lavender seedlings in the barren front yard. Looking ahead, we eagerly anticipate the symphony the wind will compose among the lavender fields next year.
△ First floor plan
△ Second floor plan
△ Third floor plan
△ Roof plan
△ Elevation A
△ Elevation B
Project Information
Project type: Hotel architecture
Project location: JEJU-SI, South Korea
Design company: STARSIS
Area: 1493 m²
Project Year: 2020
Photographer: Hong Seokgyu
Lead Architects: Park Hyunhee, Choi Kwangho
Design team: Yi Hyejin, Han Sunny
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