A House in the Landscape

Naturous Residence by Keun Young Shim

Keun Young Shim's A House in the Landscape, also known as Naturous Residence, is a stunning example of architecture that seamlessly blends with its natural surroundings. Inspired by the earth itself, this design aims to create a sense of harmony and balance between the built environment and the land it sits on.

The unique feature of this design lies in its appropriation of the surrounding scenery. In traditional Korean houses, windows were not merely openings to the outside world, but rather picture frames that showcased the ever-changing beauty of nature. A House in the Landscape continues this tradition by borrowing the scenery, allowing residents to enjoy the seasons through the opening and closing of windows and doors.

Constructed on an atypical trapezoidal plot of land, the architecture of A House in the Landscape takes on a dynamic and colorful facade that follows the contours of the earth. The use of white bricks, reclaimed from dismantled buildings in China, adds a sense of history and naturalness to the structure. Over time, the bricks will age gracefully, further enhancing the design's connection to the passage of time.

With a site area of 282.70 m², the house spans two floors above ground and a basement level. The interior finishes include unsawn timber floors, eco-friendly painting on plasterboard, and imported tiles. The design also incorporates energy-efficient insulation and Gonggan system windows for optimal thermal performance.

A House in the Landscape is not just a physical structure; it is an experience. The large windows create an open and airy feeling, allowing natural light to flood the interior spaces. The carefully designed sequence of spaces, connected by a corridor, offers a variety of sensory experiences for the residents.

This project, completed in 2018, is a testament to the designer's commitment to creating architecture that reflects the essence of human spirituality and connects with our values. A House in the Landscape has received recognition for its outstanding design, winning the Bronze A' Design Award in 2020 in the Architecture, Building, and Structure Design category.

Keun Young Shim's A House in the Landscape is a true masterpiece that showcases the beauty of architecture in harmony with nature. It serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving our connection to the natural world and finding inspiration in the landscapes that surround us.