younghan chung builds five individual residences on tiny plot in korea

amid busan’s dense urban fabric, korean architect younghan chung has completed five individual houses on a plot measuring just 137 square meters (1,475 square feet). the site was previously home to two aged trees, as well as three dwellings in a state of ruin. one of the previously existing structures was a japanese-owned house, which was returned to the korean government after the second world war.

the five individual structures have been built on a plot measuring just 137 square meters
image by roh kyung (also main image)

in terms of scale, density, and material choice, the architect sought to replicate themes and experiences associated with both the original and surrounding buildings. each of the five new structures has been metaphorically conceived as tall trees — taking root and growing within the urban landscape.

the architect sought to replicate themes associated with the site’s previous buildings
image by roh kyung

one of the dwellings is a small one-person household, while the remaining four ‘trees’ have been designed to provide accommodation for travelers. a small private courtyard is created at the center of the plan, which cannot be seen from overlooking buildings.

each of the five new buildings has been metaphorically conceived as tall trees
image by park jong min

one of the dwellings is a small one-person household
image by roh kyung

four of the ‘trees’ have been designed to provide accommodation for travelers
image by roh kyung

stairway leading to the property’s upper level
image by park jong min

a small tree has been planted within the scheme
image by roh kyung

a small private courtyard is created at the center of the plan
image by roh kyung

inside one of the secluded residences
image by roh kyung

an aerial view of the site
image by roh kyung

the project is set amid busan’s dense urban fabric
image by roh kyung

project info:

architect: younghan, chung
location: busan, korea
program: residential
site area: 136.68 sqm
building area: 76.59 sqm
gross floor area: 135.96 sqm
building scope: 3 storeys
parking: 1
height: 8.17m

building to land ratio: 56.04%
floor area ratio: 98.04%
structure: wood construction
exterior finishing: brick, spray stucco
interior finishing: wallpaper on two sheets of plaster board, urethane finishing
construction: wooyeol lee, TCM global
design period: april 2014 – october 2014
construction period: december 2014 – april 2015