Hoji Gangneung Houses by aoa architects: A Harmony of Rural Simplicity and Architectural Elegance

Hoji Gangneung Houses, designed by aoa architects, redefine rural vacation accommodation in South Korea. Located in Gangneung-si, this architectural masterpiece combines countryside tranquility with innovative design principles. With three distinct accommodation buildings, a community warehouse, and the owner’s residence, the project transforms a modest countryside into an oasis of calm and sophistication.

A New Vision for Rural Accommodation

In recent years, the concept of a "pension" has evolved from basic countryside lodgings to luxurious retreats. Hoji Gangneung Houses embrace this shift while resisting the overindulgent trends of flashy pool villas and excessive interiors. Designed with a restrained aesthetic, these homes honor the essence of rural life, avoiding artificial embellishments and blending seamlessly into their natural surroundings.

Architectural Design Inspired by the Countryside

Site Context and Design Philosophy

Spanning a gently sloping 3,300 m² plot, the Hoji Gangneung Houses take inspiration from traditional countryside structures such as warehouses and cabins. Lead architect Jaewon Suh envisioned buildings that resonate with rural simplicity while offering modern comforts. The designs—symmetrical yet understated—aim to evoke personal memories for visitors.

Material and Form

The project employs concrete for its raw, earthy texture, ensuring the houses remain unobtrusive amidst the landscape. These seemingly floating structures mimic the weight and lightness of toys, juxtaposing the heaviness of concrete with the playful lightness of rural dwellings.

The Three Accommodation Buildings

The Octagonal House

This unique structure features an octagonal courtyard, providing a serene space for family stays. Divided into two sections by a central passageway and bathroom, the house fosters a sense of openness. The courtyard’s trees connect indoor and outdoor spaces seamlessly, creating a tranquil, monastery-like ambiance.

The Long House

Characterized by a skylight stretching across its length, the Long House bathes its interiors in natural light. Concrete beams, though seemingly decorative, add a whimsical charm. The layout ensures fluidity, with low ceilings that reflect light and provide a mirror-like effect.

The Round House

With its eye-catching suspended kitchen oven hood, the Round House combines function with artistic design. Its rounded form contrasts with the angularity of the other buildings, offering a dynamic and immersive living experience.

Community and Connection

At the heart of Hoji Gangneung is a circular walkway that connects the accommodations, community warehouse, and the owner’s residence. Designed with a minimum width of 30 meters, the pathway immerses visitors in the natural environment, especially on rainy days when pools of water and overhanging plants create a magical atmosphere.

Interior Details and User Experience

Material Palette and Furniture

The interiors feature extensive use of wood, crafting a warm, inviting atmosphere reminiscent of musical instrument boxes. Irregular furniture adds a playful touch, while simple, low seating enhances the perception of vertical space.

Lighting and Atmosphere

Natural light plays a central role in the experience. Skylights, high windows, and reflective surfaces transform the interiors throughout the day, making light an ever-present element of design.

A Sensory Journey Through Architecture

Hoji Gangneung Houses are not just places to stay—they are spaces to experience. The architectural elements, from shadows cast by hanging plants to the play of light on concrete, evoke emotions and memories. Each house offers a unique sensory journey, whether it’s stargazing from the Long House or enjoying the courtyard's sunlit embrace in the Octagonal House.

The Hoji Gangneung Houses by aoa architects celebrate the simplicity and beauty of rural architecture. By prioritizing harmony with the landscape and offering understated luxury, the project redefines what it means to escape the city. Whether for quiet reflection or a family retreat, these houses provide a serene refuge that lingers in the memory of all who visit.

All the photographs are work of Hyosook Chin