Pocheon G: Revitalizing an Old Duplex House

Combining Old and New to Create a Unique Living Space

Pocheon G, a housing project by renowned designer Seuk Hoon Kim, showcases the transformation of an abandoned duplex house into a modern and functional living space. The project aimed to combine the two units into one, providing the necessary functions for the client while preserving the unique character of the existing building.

One of the most inspiring elements of this project was the existing condition of the building. Architectural parts of the previous space, such as masonry walls, were left behind, creating a striking contrast between the "old" and the "new." This fusion of elements formed a unique canvas for the designer to work with, allowing for the creation of a harmonious and captivating space.

The key challenge in remodeling this wrecked duplex house was to seamlessly integrate the two units and create a cohesive space composition. By carefully considering the client's needs and incorporating them into the existing space, a variety of plan combinations were formed, resulting in the most applicable and functional design.

To bring the design to life, the designer employed a combination of traditional and innovative techniques. White wall divisions were introduced to incorporate different needs from the client, while the facade design utilized digital computation of louver modules. This approach allowed for the study of human activities within the interior space to inform the design of the exterior, creating a cohesive and functional living environment.

The interaction within the design was carefully considered, with an extended grid of wall divisions serving as storage devices. These divisions allowed the client to accommodate different needs for her specific lifestyle. The same division concept was applied to the facade louver design, providing shade for the south-facing windows of the house. The louver modules were designed based on the study of various activities, such as sitting, lying, and standing, ensuring optimal functionality.

The Pocheon G project was not without its challenges. The age and abandonment of the house posed difficulties in determining what could be preserved and what needed to be demolished. Additionally, integrating new spaces that seamlessly blended with the old structure required careful planning and execution.

Through the use of 3D computational tools and extensive research, the designer was able to fully understand the programs inside the house and apply appropriate exterior louver designs. This approach ensured that the design not only met the client's needs but also facilitated a better living experience.

Pocheon G is a testament to the power of revitalization and transformation. By combining old and new elements, Seuk Hoon Kim has created a unique living space that seamlessly integrates functionality and aesthetics. This project was awarded the prestigious Iron A' Design Award in 2017, recognizing its innovative and practical design that meets professional and industrial requirements.