Simgok House | Sungnam, Korea | 2019
심곡 하우스 | 성남, 대한민국 | 2019
While many contemporary families increasingly live further apart, a poet and her three daughters, each with their own families, found a cozy site in a high-density village where the new and old coexist. In this unique situation, Simgok House meets the difficult demand of connecting the extended family under one roof while providing custom-fit solutions for each family member.
The name of the area originates from the word ‘심곡’ (Simgok). The roof provides a “sky-yard” for all families to gather and enjoy the surrounding mountain view.
Within a hyper-compact footprint, the continuous envelope-line breaks to strategize views and privacy.
Utilizing the slippage in between, the three volumes divide into four distinctively different units that balance southern light, view, and amenities.
The peninsular lot challenges privacy and security; elevating the body on concrete columns creates a ‘common ground’ for the residents with an open view from the inside and closed view from the outside. The level difference between neighboring Hanok (traditional Korean house) and garden creates a pleasant centerpiece for the family to enjoy.
Like a slow wink, one can control their exposure without the use of window treatment by distancing their body from the slit windows. The façade composition evolves panoramic readings the activity of the occupants within various ‘faces’ familiarizes an otherwise artificial object.