The Sliced House
Form
The economy of form and structure recalls traditional Korean architecture. The geometrically simple form of SH results from cutting a section through the traditional Korean house, and leaving minimal in-between space (Kaan).
In contrast to the exterior, which relates flexibly to the surrounding urban fabric with simple yet sophisticated elevations, the interior is animated by a rich, dynamic spatial experience that reflects the modernization of traditional architecture.
Structurally, Kaan (3m x 3m) is open. Another larger Kaan (6m x 6m) is comprised of 4 smaller Kaans on the first floor. Vertically open space will be transformed as one biggest Kaan(6m cubic) once opened at each levels.
SPACE
Envisaged as a village within a house, where an individual room metaphorically embodies the private function of a home and the overall structure itself embodies the connective elements of a village, the SH weaves a rich tapestry of traditional and modern.
Deriving from the 2-dimensional plan of a Korean traditional village, the interior has been composed symbolically, vertically, and spatially of Chae (house), Madang (yard), and Golmokgil (alley). This space (2mx2m) is cubic; only a minimal, independent room.
THE SLICED HOUSE
Vertical circulation (the alley) connects the rooms. A ladder provides to access to the top of the structure; the leftover volume can be used as an introspective courtyard or attic loft. Each space of SH is closely interconnected.
SKIN
An opaque, vertically textured skin envelopes two sides of the VH with functional minimalism. The other two sides are transparent. Folding glass doors on the ground level borrow space from the surroundings, making the units feel more open and spacious. The openness similarly invites the units to flow into the surroundings. Generous glazing floods the interior with natural light and allows for framed views. The SH can be oriented in any direction.
In terms of the material palette, two options are proposed for initial availability. The first option is either zinc or aged (greenish) copper. The muted zinc provides solidity similar to Korean roofing tile, and copper exudes a calm elegance that improves with time.
The second option is a concrete wall with a vertical semi-circular pattern, which evokes a mild tension suspended between minimalism and geometric solidity. Bold colors such as red could make an accentuated landmark, particularly as a contrast to vegetation-rich, green areas or white snow zones.