Z_lab transforms stone house into ‘waon’, a peaceful wellness retreat in south korea

‘waon’ by Z_lab is a peaceful retreat with a focus on wellness, located in hamdeok, a south korean village by the sea. the project occupies the site of an existing stone house, which has been renovated and extended to form three main volumes: the ‘greeting house’, the ‘comfort house’, and the ‘therapy house’. all spaces, from the herb garden to the indoor bath, are developed with a focus on healing and relaxation.all images by lee byeong-geun, unless stated otherwise

Z_lab divided ‘waon’ into three main volumes that embody elements of local traditions and hospitality in their design. first, the ‘greeting house’, which retains the identity and appearance of the old stone house, welcomes guests within the building. then, two ‘comfort houses’, also made of stone, offer open plan spaces complete with a kitchen, living room, bed, a small bathtub, and a backyard.

the ‘therapy house’ was designed with an emphasis on the concept of ‘healing’, featuring a large hot bath, a dry sauna and a therapy room. large openings provide guests with views of the serene herb gardens outside, as they enjoy a warm cup of tea. exposed rafters are combined with earthy tones on the walls and furniture, contributing to the overall atmosphere of relaxation and healing at ‘waon’.

image by texture on texture

image by texture on texture

project info:

name: waon house

architect: Z_lab

location: hamdeok village, jeju city, south korea

site area: 304 m²

building area: 110.05 m²

gross floor area: 110.05m²