Layers of Space: Adaptive Reuse of Sukchulmok Bakery and Café in Yongsan-gu, Seoul

The Sukchulmok Bakery and Café, designed by Sukchulmok studio, represents a remarkable adaptive reuse project that blends modern design with the history of an old structure. Located in Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea, this two-story building was originally constructed in 1983 as a common detached house. The building’s transformation into a dynamic café space is a testament to the thoughtful integration of contemporary elements with the original architecture, preserving the building's heritage while meeting the functional needs of the present.

Preserving the Past: A Study of Layers in Architecture

The Sukchulmok Bakery and Café project is a powerful example of adaptive reuse in architecture. The design approach aims to preserve the layers of history embedded in the building while adding modern gestures to ensure its relevance in today’s architectural context. The building’s original brick façade and its internal modifications over the years offer a glimpse into the passage of time, with every crack, brick, and structural change narrating its evolution.

The building’s unique design consists of two primary materials: concrete for the first floor and brick for the second. The architects at Sukchulmok thoughtfully examined the building’s historical aspects and sought to preserve the beauty of these layers. Throughout the project, traces of the building’s history, including damaged areas and past expansions, are preserved, providing a deep connection to its past while making it functional for the future.

The Vertical Gesture: Connecting Old and New

One of the standout design features of the Sukchulmok Bakery and Café is the integration of a 500mm stainless steel cylinder, which connects the two floors vertically. This cylinder serves both an aesthetic and functional purpose: it reinforces the structure, conceals rainwater pipes, and introduces a modern visual element that contrasts with the building’s older materials. This gesture of adding a sleek stainless steel form not only enhances the visual appeal but also creates a strong dialogue between the original brick structure and contemporary interventions.

Material Selection: Blending the Old with the New

The material palette used throughout the project is another crucial element of its success. Stainless steel, discolored bricks, and redwood are employed thoughtfully to create a visual harmony between the old and new. The use of these materials helps the building maintain its connection to the past while introducing modern finishes. The bricks on the second floor, which were added at different times, vary slightly in pattern, reflecting the passage of time and highlighting the building’s historical layers.

By carefully selecting materials that complement the original structure, Sukchulmok studio successfully merges contemporary design with historical preservation, resulting in a space that feels both modern and timeless.

Interior Design: Sophisticated Harmony in Every Detail

Inside, the interior design of the Sukchulmok Bakery and Café continues the theme of balancing the old with the new. The design preserves the exposed concrete structure, maintaining the rough textures that evoke a sense of history. The architects introduced red cedar louvers, a material commonly used in 1980s living rooms, to create a cozy yet modern ambiance. These louvers, paired with the exposed concrete, strike a sophisticated balance between ruggedness and elegance.

The first and second floors of the café are designed with a seamless flow, offering visitors a comfortable environment where they can enjoy delicious pies and freshly roasted coffee. The choice of rough textures for the interior walls contrasts with the modern fixtures and furnishings, creating a space that feels welcoming and grounded in history.

Functional Design: Creating a Unique Café Experience

In addition to its aesthetic value, the design of the Sukchulmok Bakery and Café is highly functional. The café serves as a hub for the local community, offering professional baking and freshly roasted coffee. The unique combination of textures, materials, and design elements ensures that the space is not only beautiful but also serves the practical needs of the café’s visitors. The on-site manufactured furniture adds to the café's bespoke feel, further enhancing the customer experience.

The Role of Time in Architecture: A Continuous Evolution

The Sukchulmok Bakery and Café is not just a place to enjoy delicious food and beverages; it is also a space that tells the story of time. The building itself has undergone numerous transformations, and the latest design intervention adds another layer to its rich history. By thoughtfully combining old materials with new design concepts, Sukchulmok studio creates a space where visitors can experience both the past and present in a single location.

A Modern Café with a Rich History

The Sukchulmok Bakery and Café in Yongsan-gu is a remarkable example of how adaptive reuse can breathe new life into an old structure. By preserving the layers of history within the building while introducing modern elements, Sukchulmok studio has created a café that is not only functional but also deeply connected to its past. The design thoughtfully blends materials, textures, and historical traces, ensuring that the space feels timeless while meeting the needs of today’s café-goers.

This project proves that architecture can be a powerful tool for preserving history while embracing innovation. Whether enjoying a cup of freshly brewed coffee or savoring a homemade pie, visitors to the Sukchulmok Bakery and Café can experience the harmonious fusion of the old and the new, all within a beautifully designed space that tells a story of evolution, adaptation, and creativity.

All Photographs are work ofHong Seokgyu