external arched metal skin forms around arcline architects' moon terrace in south korea

Arcline Architects’s Moon-Themed building on Wolmido Island

Wolmido island in South Korea, which translates to Moon-tail Island originating from the shape of the island resembling the tail of a crescent, inspired a distinctive moon-themed building designed by Arcline Architects. The structure seamlessly integrates with the unique terrain and scenic beauty of the island.

The design emphasizes open spaces, a response to the increased desire for outdoor environments following the pandemic. The building’s ground area features an exoskeleton of round and pointed arches, reminiscent of the Italian ‘Portico,’ functioning as both passage and domain. This inviting space leads pedestrians into a lively customer lounge. The podium is constructed with irregularly stacked rough-textured natural stone, providing stability. In contrast, the upper levels are clad in a seamless metallic material, creating a white pavilion with a light, airy feel. The building avoids conventional rectangular forms, instead incorporating multiangular planes and curved elevations, emphasized with stainless steel coloration to highlight the moon-themed arcs of the facades.

all images courtesy of Arcline Architects

Moon Terrace Blends Functional Design and Coastal Elegance

The building adapts to weather changes with specific awnings and insulated folding doors. Uplighting enhances the silhouette of the awning, while hidden rain downpipes maintain aesthetic integrity. The third floor is cantilevered to maximize the openness of the second-floor lounge and main terrace, connected by a round staircase. Given its seaside location, THK2 Galvarium was chosen for its resistance to salt damage. To prevent thermal deformation, two-way slot holes are incorporated throughout the metal exterior. Detailed facade compositions feature laser-processed and corrosion-resistant painted metal on box columns and curved steel members.

Moon Terrace offers a unique dining experience, combining signature seafood dishes with the ambiance of sea breezes and moonlight. Arcline Architects‘ design aims to make Moon Terrace a memorable destination in Wolmido, harmonizing functional architecture with the natural landscape.

Wolmido, translating to Moon-tail Island, inspired a distinctive moon-themed building by Arcline Architects

the structure seamlessly integrates with Wolmido’s unique terrain and scenic beauty

the design emphasizes open spaces, catering to the post-pandemic desire for outdoor environments

the ground area features an exoskeleton of round and pointed arches, reminiscent of the Italian ‘Portico’

this inviting space leads pedestrians into a lively customer lounge

the podium is constructed with irregularly stacked rough-textured natural stone for stability

the building avoids conventional rectangular forms, using multiangular planes and curved elevations

a circular staircase made of punching metal connects the second and third floor

uplighting enhances the silhouette of the awning, maintaining aesthetic integrity

project info:

name: Moon Terrace
architect: Arcline Architects | @arcline_kia

lead architect: DongJe Kil

location: Wolmido, South Korea

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edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom