BCHO architects: L house

'L house' by BCHO architects in hwasang-ri, korea
all images courtesy BCHO architects
photographer: wooseop hwang


seoul-based practice BCHO architects (byoung soo cho) has sent us images of 'L house',
a single-storey residence in hwasang-ri, korea. designed for a professional couple who plan
to move into the house in a few years' time, the temporary weekend house is completely
sealable when not occupied.



street view


located in a small valley outside of the capital city of seoul, the site is restricted by a road
to the west while opening up to the landscape to the south and the east. the L-shaped volume
is situated to simultaneously block out the distracting elements of the road and orient the view
to the adjacent forest. circumscribed by a low rock wall, a spacious courtyard space is generated
in front of the dwelling. light is reflected into the living space by local white basalt stone
which fills the yard.



view of the private exterior deck when open to the courtyard


orientated towards the south, the indoor living space benefits from natural daylight.
featuring an accordion-like door system, a wide strip of shaded outdoor space acts as
an intermediate, buffering zone between the exterior and the interior. the generous overhang
permits sun to enter the living room during the winter days while keeping it cool during the summer.



courtyard view



facade treatment



stained black cedar panels



from roof



view towards the south



(left) door to guest house
(right) covered deck


the west wing accommodates a separate guest bedroom that can be accessed through
the sheltered exterior deck. complete with its own wash basin and cabinet, the space
also serves as a tearoom when not hosting a guest.



(left) living room
(right) guest bedroom / tea room



guest bedroom / tea room



(left) stairs to attic / storage
(right) storage unit in tea room



view from the north



site map



site plan



floor plan
(1) living room
(2) bedroom
(3) kitchen
(4) exterior deck
(5) courtyard
(6) storage
(7) bathroom
(8) support kitchen
(9) entryway



section



section



section



section



south elevation



west elevation



sketch






project info:

site area: 892 m2
gross floor area: 139.13 m2
total floor area: 139.13 m2
building-to-land ratio: 15.60%
floor area ratio: 15.60%
structure: reinforced concrete
exterior finishing: reinforced concrete, treated wood, stacked glass