En Plein Ciel 2: A Private Penthouse Apartment Embracing the Sky

Emptying Space to Embrace Nature

En Plein Ciel 2 is located in the affluent area of south Seoul, Korea. The name, which means "in the fully sky" in French, reflects the design's intention to maintain expansive views by minimizing walls and maximizing the surrounding landscape. The concept of "emptying" is introduced to allow residents to fully enjoy the breathtaking scenery. At an altitude of 200 meters, the apartment offers a panoramic view of the sky, the light, the clouds, the mountains, and the earth, creating a seamless connection between the space and nature.

The design of En Plein Ciel 2 is characterized by its formless interior space and moderate finishing materials. The use of thin ceramic tiles, wood flooring, vinyl painting, smoked oak wood panels, bronze glass, and Barisol ceilings creates a simple and elegant aesthetic. The space is not simply devoid of walls or decorations; rather, it embraces a state of usefulness through appropriate furniture and thoughtful details.

The biggest change in En Plein Ciel 2 is the use of glass as a finishing material for the walls that divide each room. By substituting walls with glass, the apartment opens up completely to the sky, blurring the boundaries between the artificial space and the natural surroundings. This design choice not only enhances the view but also creates a sense of unity between the interior and the exterior.

The En Plein Ciel 2 project started in October 2016 and was completed in February 2018. Throughout the design process, the team focused on simplifying the finishing materials and maximizing the view. The use of glass walls presented technical challenges, such as concealing hardware details, while earthquake-resistant design considerations required careful treatment of large tiles. Despite these challenges, the result is a space that perfectly embodies the designer's vision.

En Plein Ciel 2 has been recognized for its outstanding design and creativity. It was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category in 2019. This prestigious award is bestowed upon designs that demonstrate resourcefulness, technical skill, and a commitment to improving quality of life.

En Plein Ciel 2 is a testament to the power of design to create a harmonious relationship between human-made spaces and the natural world. By embracing the concept of "emptying," Design Tomorrow, Inc. has redefined the traditional residential space, offering residents a unique and immersive experience that celebrates the beauty of nature.