Chusajae House by Soltozibin Architects: A Harmonious Blend of Nature, Books, and Architecture in Gwangju

Chusajae House, designed by Soltozibin Architects, is a remarkable residential project situated at the base of Mudeungsan Mountain in Gwangju, South Korea. Commissioned by a former forensic dentist from a nearby university, the house was envisioned as a personal retreat after retirement. Unlike conventional choices, the client opted to live away from Seoul, embracing the serenity of Gwangju's natural surroundings.

The primary design agenda for Chusajae House is “Nature and Book,” reflecting the client’s love for the outdoors and a personal library of over 23,000 books. The site, surrounded by lush forest and sloping terrain, presented both challenges and inspiration for the architectural design.

Site and Context

Located directly in front of dense woods, the plot has a flat base but is framed by tall trees and natural slopes. These conditions create a sense of intimacy and seclusion while imposing strict limitations, such as a building coverage ratio of less than 20%.

The limited footprint encouraged a vertical architectural solution, resulting in a three-story residence that maximizes spatial quality while respecting the natural environment. The house sits subtly within the landscape, blending into its surroundings rather than dominating them.

Spatial Organization

Chusajae House embraces a split-level concept to respond to the unique site conditions:

• Entrance: The main entry sits half a floor below ground level, forming a gentle connection with the earth.
• Guest Room & Attic: Positioned on the right side of the entrance, offering privacy and versatility.
• Library: Located 1.5 floors below the main entrance, featuring high-sided windows that allow abundant daylight to illuminate the space.
• Bedrooms: Placed on the middle floor for optimal views and natural ventilation.
• Dining & Living Area: Situated on the top floor, where high ceilings create a sense of openness and connection to the forest canopy.

This careful layering of spaces ensures a seamless flow between private, communal, and contemplative areas, all while maximizing natural light and forest views.

Terra Tectonics: Architecture in Dialogue with the Land

Chusajae House demonstrates the concept of terra tectonics, a design philosophy where architecture responds to and engages with the land. The project interprets this through two complementary strategies:

1. Reinforced Concrete Base: The lower structure actively interacts with the ground, transforming the terrain and forming a structural foundation that integrates architecture and landscape.
2. Timber Superstructure: A lightweight wooden frame rises above the concrete base, minimally touching the ground while absorbing energy from the earth. The exterior combines timber and copper cladding, allowing the house to harmonize with the surrounding forest over time.

The lifted timber structure and ribbon windows not only create a visual connection with the treetops but also respect the natural contours and character of the site.

Materials and Sustainability

• Wood: Both heavy timber and lightweight frame structures were used to balance durability with sensitivity to the environment.
• Copper Cladding: Applied in varying widths, it will naturally age and blend with the forest.
• Daylighting: Strategically placed high-sided windows and open plans reduce reliance on artificial lighting.

By combining natural materials with innovative construction techniques, Chusajae House emphasizes sustainability, biophilic design, and environmental integration.

Chusajae House stands as a serene, thoughtfully designed retreat where architecture, nature, and personal passion converge. By responding to the site’s natural constraints and celebrating the client’s love of books, Soltozibin Architects created a home that is as contemplative as it is visually striking.

All photographs are works of  Yoon Junhwan