Hinterhaus Cultural Space by SHERPA: A Modern Cultural Retreat in Anyang-si, South Korea

The Hinterhaus Cultural Space, designed by SHERPA, is a contemporary cultural retreat nestled within Anyang Art Park, South Korea. The project draws inspiration from the city’s historical roots, Anyang originated from Anyangsa Temple, symbolizing a “paradise that relaxes the mind and body.” This cultural center reflects that philosophy, providing a serene, ventilated space away from the bustling city center while blending art, architecture, and nature.

Concept and Design Narrative

The name “Hinterhaus” combines the German words “Hinterhof” (backyard) and “Haus” (house), highlighting the design’s core intention: a backyard-like sanctuary within a modern architectural shell. The architects envisioned a sequence of experiences, moving from the welcoming first-floor “home” area to the elevated second-floor “yard,” creating a natural flow that encourages exploration and engagement.

The exterior façade and corten steel fencing guide movement and frame sightlines, allowing visitors to feel connected to nature from every vantage point. The building’s material palette: including concrete, corten steel, and reclaimed wooden elements, reinforces the impression of an outdoor backyard while maintaining a modern, urban aesthetic.

Interior Design and Materiality

Inside, the first-floor area features communal spaces where visitors are greeted with warmth and intimacy. The interiors use natural materials and intuitive design cues characteristic of SHERPA’s architectural language. For example:

• Vertical concrete chipping on walls evokes the texture and narrative of Berlin Wall fragments, integrating history and abstraction into the building’s form.
• Wood furnishings with live edges and repurposed identification paint from the woodyard connect interior objects to the exterior environment.
• Rainwater drainage lines are subtly incorporated into furniture design, reinforcing functionality and sustainability.

The interior layout emphasizes comfort, ventilation, and connection to nature, creating a space that is both practical and experiential. Every chair, table, and window placement is carefully considered to frame views, allow natural light, and ensure a sense of openness.

Spatial Experience

Visitors experience a gradual unfolding of the cultural space: entering through a subtle door mechanism resembling a “password handle” leads to the first-floor communal area. As one moves upward, the second-floor yard opens up, inviting visitors to enjoy outdoor-like seating and greenery. The careful interplay between interior and exterior elements reinforces a sense of place, locality, and tranquility.

The Hinterhaus Cultural Space is not just a building; it is an architectural narrative. By harmonizing local culture, historical references, and sustainable materiality, SHERPA creates a cultural hub that inspires reflection and rejuvenation.

Architectural Significance

Hinterhaus demonstrates how modern mixed-use architecture can integrate nature, community, and art. Its thoughtful material choices and design strategies provide:

• A ventilated urban retreat
• Seamless indoor-outdoor continuity
• A contemporary interpretation of cultural heritage

All photographs are works of   In and Out