At 9:55 p.m. on November 12, the episode ‘Architectural Exploration House - Leaving Seoul to Build a Home for Youth’ will be broadcast on EBS1.
In Goseong, Gangwon-do, there lives the old house repair king who repaired not one, but three old houses? The owner personally renovated the second and third houses, starting with the cute first house, which was initially intended to be used as a studio but is now operated as a cafe. It is said that he was captivated by the charm of the old prison… The love he shows for the old prison is extraordinary.
Everything about the green roof house, the first house built with a tent set up in the kitchen of a village house, is special. The rafters resemble bare bones and the earthen walls are finished in the shape of raw handprints. This is a house where you can feel the artistic sense of the owner, who is also a ceramics artist. The owners of No. 2 and No. 3, which were built later, were also unique. In particular, the second house, a red brick house, was renovated as a space just for the owner and his wife, so it is a house that the couple put a lot of blood, sweat and tears into from start to finish. The second house was created by combining retro sensibility and modern style. A temporary wall on the second floor was opened up and made into a regular bed to enhance the sense of space, and the flooded basement was made into a nice studio by exposing the interior walls.
Taking advantage of his experience of repairing two houses, the last house he repaired, No. 3, also catches the eye. From the unexpected space that appears behind the temporary wall to the bedroom with an open sky. The owner of the building repaired three old houses without any problems. He said that there was another real hardship… The two-story house he bought without knowing was turned out to be an empty lot? There was a two-story house that was in joint names. in order to relieve the blindness, I had no choice but to purchase a small house that is currently being used as the third house. The owner and his wife said that it was more troublesome to unravel the old building than to repair it. Still, the efforts made so far are finally being seen, and the owner’s husband is currently spending leisurely time making pottery and his wife making coffee, with the sea as their friend.
Why did a young building owner couple abandon their stable life in Seoul and come down to Goseong? Despite the eventful times, the three old houses were eventually completed. Let’s explore this.
At the top of a mountain in Hongcheon, Gangwon-do, there is a house with windows that are 30 meters long on the front and back? It is said to be a house that is hidden in the mountains, but stands out at a glance due to the overwhelming size of the window… It is not a house, but a house that looks more like a cafe or studio. Who is the builder?
The owners of this house are Sang-hoon and his wife Gyu-ri, who work as idol costume designers. He started building a house in the mountains despite his young age! As expected from the owner who works as a designer, the house is also sensuous… When you open the front door and enter, it is not the front door that greets you, but a courtyard, giving a twist. The interior is even more special. The first floor, measuring 30 pyeong, has been completely stripped without any space distinction, and four large circular pillars have been installed to add to the safety of the structure. And even the full windows. It’s a three-tong house.
In addition, the spacious deck where you can exercise while looking at the natural scenery is comparable to any other gym. As the house is located at the top of a mountain, the owner installed large skylights above the stairs and in the bathroom, allowing the owner to enjoy nature that cannot be experienced in the city. The two are living a healing life by filling the empty spaces in their home with carbonized wood furniture and glass that they made together.
However, finding a place for this house was not easy. What they want is the famous site of Baesan Imsu. It was the grave of my grandmother who died from a snakebite! Although it may be scary, the couple believes that building a house has added to their unforgettable memories. Building a house became an unforgettable and happy memory for them.
Sang-hoon, who lived a busy life in the city, but decided to build his own real home to be happy, and his wife, Gyu-ri, who boldly gave up her stable job as a teacher to explore the life she wanted. At Samtongjip, where nature is something you could never find in Seoul, you are discovering what true happiness is.
The process of decorating their real home, which they could not do in a 12-pyeong studio apartment in a city with many restrictions, begins. A house built by a young couple to find happiness early on. Let’s explore this.
Economy Queen Reporter Park Yu-mi Photo = EBS Architectural Exploration House
.
Time.news Interview: Architectural Visionaries in the Heart of Gangwon-do
Editor: Welcome to another insightful segment of Time.news. Today, we have a special guest, Park Yu-mi, an expert in architectural design and renovation. Park, thank you for joining us!
Park Yu-mi: Thank you for having me! I’m excited to discuss the unique architectural gems of Gangwon-do.
Editor: Let’s dive right in! I recently read about some fascinating projects in Goseong that caught my attention—especially the story of the ”old house repair king.” Can you share what makes his work so remarkable?
Park Yu-mi: Absolutely! The owner’s passion for renovating old houses reflects a deep appreciation for history and craftsmanship. His journey, starting with a charming little home he converted into a café, showcases not just technical skills but a genuine love for each space. Each renovation isn’t just about restoration; it’s about telling a story that respects the past while allowing for contemporary use.
Editor: I find it fascinating that he transformed an old prison into such a welcoming space. How do you see the blend of history and modern function in architectural design?
Park Yu-mi: That’s a great question! Blending history with modern function can often lead to innovative designs. For example, in the first house, the raw earthen walls shape a tactile experience that contrasts beautifully with more contemporary elements. This juxtaposition enriches both the aesthetic and emotional value of the space, inviting occupants to form a connection with their environment.
Editor: Speaking of connections, I read about how the second house was designed specifically for the owner’s couple’s intimate life and creativity. What can you tell us about personalizing spaces in home design?
Park Yu-mi: Personalization is crucial! The second house brilliantly combines retro charm with modern application—a reflection of the couple’s character. By customizing their living space to suit their lifestyle, they create an environment that boosts their daily lives. The integration of elements like the spacious studio in the basement shows how thoughtful design can enhance creativity.
Editor: It sounds like the design process involves a lot of trial and error, as you pointed out earlier regarding the third house’s unexpected challenges. How important is adaptability in architectural design?
Park Yu-mi: Extremely important! Adaptability allows designers to respond to unforeseen challenges effectively. The ability to pivot when faced with unexpected issues—like transforming an empty lot into a desirable space—demonstrates creative problem-solving. This adaptability not only enhances the physical structure but also cultivates resilience in the homeowners’ journey.
Editor: Now, moving beyond Goseong, you mentioned a stunning house in Hongcheon with those awe-inspiring 30-meter windows. What do you think this design communicates about the relationship between architecture and nature?
Park Yu-mi: The expansive windows serve as a bridge between the indoors and the natural world, allowing sunlight to flood the space while providing breathtaking views. It reflects a philosophy of living harmoniously with the environment. For homeowners like Sang-hoon and Gyu-ri, their design choice signifies a desire to create a sanctuary that invites nature in—transforming the house into a captivating retreat rather than merely a building.
Editor: It’s clear that these residences are not just structures but living art forms imbued with passion and creativity. So, what message do you hope audiences take away from these architectural explorations?
Park Yu-mi: I hope people realize that architecture can symbolize personal narrative and cultural heritage. These stories inspire us to appreciate the spaces we inhabit, encouraging a deeper connection with our surroundings. They remind us that home is not just a physical space; it’s where life unfolds creatively and meaningfully.
Editor: Thank you, Park Yu-mi, for sharing your insights! It’s been enlightening to explore the interplay between history, creativity, and personal storytelling in architecture. We look forward to your next contribution!
Park Yu-mi: Thank you for having me! I look forward to more discussions about the influence of architecture on our lives.