platform_a places café on expansive coast of jeju island, south korea

characterized by its volcanic origin, the café features a surrounding landscape of expansive open fields and coastal vegetation.

platform_a edited by massimo mini February 2, 2016 2 min

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platform_a places café on expansive coast of jeju island, south korea
all images courtesy of joonhawn, yoon

‘platform_monsant’, by busan-based studio platform_a, is a café located in the small residential area of aeweol, on jeju island, south korea. characterized by its volcanic origin, the area features expansive open fields and abundant coastal vegetation. the goal of the project was not to emphasize the architecture in the landscape, but rather the opposite. flanked to the south and west, the seaward facing plot opens to an endless tropical view.

platforma platform monsant cafe jeju island south korea
stairwell to terrace

the refined structure — made primarily of concrete and glass — serves as a device to absorb its surroundings. large windows connect interior and exterior, while also bringing in natural light and providing inhabitants ample privacy. the glass façade can be oriented in both open and closed positions; either of which determine the space’s implicit physical presence.

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‘platform_monsant’ runs parallel with a strong horizontal line

located on the roof, is an observatory-worthy terrace that opens in all directions. in addition to the sights it provides, the green deck also serves as building insulation, connects (via skylight) to the interior, and augments visual continuity between the road, house, and site. as a final nod to the land on which the building is constructed, a hollow floor section draws nature and human together, establishing a meaningful relationship defined by ceaseless change.

platforma platform monsant cafe jeju island south korea
basalt rock is reinterpreted into the motif of the building

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the façade is made partially of glass, reflecting its surroundings and blocking views of the interior

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interior view showing the minimal material pallete

platforma platform monsant cafe jeju island south korea
the building opens to the sea, an a hollow section creates an intimate relationship to the earth

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view of the main entrance and counter

platforma platform monsant cafe jeju island south korea
the roof garden connects to the lower floor via glass cubes

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masterplan

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floor plan

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elevation

project info:

architects: platform_a
location: aewol, jejusi, jeju-do, south korea
architect in charge: jincheol han
area: 198.0m²
project year: 2015
photography: joonhawn, yoon
client: monsant de aewol

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