In 2023, sukchulmok studio embarked on an adaptive reuse project in Yongsan-gu, Seoul, breathing new life into a common detached house dating back to 1983. Lead architect Park Hyunhee led the transformation, infusing modern elements into the aging structure while preserving its nostalgic charm.
Embracing Heritage
The project aimed to honor the building’s history while infusing contemporary design elements. The original structure, with its brick skin, bore the marks of time, including signs of expansion and repairs. sukchulmok retained these traces, ensuring a harmonious blend of old and new aesthetics.
Structural Innovations
The two-story building, featuring a concrete ground floor and a brick upper floor, presented structural challenges, including tilted railings and damaged walls. To address these issues and unify the building’s appearance, a stainless steel vertical connector was introduced, giving the structure a cohesive identity.
Harmonious Integration
A 500mm diameter cylinder served as a vertical connector, not only enhancing the building’s stability but also covering rainwater pipes. The choice of materials, including stainless steel, discolored bricks, and redwood, ensured seamless integration with the existing texture, celebrating the passage of time.
Timeless Elegance
The interior spaces were meticulously designed, with red cedar louvers and exposed concrete structures evoking a sense of nostalgia. The rough textures added sophistication, promoting a harmonious ambiance throughout the bakery and café.
Culinary Experience
The renovated space, now home to sukchulmok Bakery and Café, offers visitors a unique culinary experience. From professionally baked pies to direct roasted coffee, patrons are invited to savor delicious treats while immersing themselves in the charm of the revitalized space.
Conclusion
sukchulmok Bakery and Café stands as a testament to the transformative power of adaptive reuse. By blending modern interventions with historic elements, the project not only preserves architectural heritage but also creates a welcoming environment for patrons to indulge in gastronomic delights amidst a backdrop of timeless elegance.
