N Retreat by One-Aftr: Modern Korean Forest Retreat in Pyeongchang-gun

Nestled in the serene forest of Odae Mountain in Pyeongchang-gun, South Korea, the N Retreat by one-aftr is a contemporary two-story company retreat designed to harmonize with its lush natural surroundings. Covering 330 m², this 2022 project blends Korean vernacular architecture, modern materials, and sustainable design strategies to create a unique forest hideaway.

Architectural Concept: Inspired by Nature and Tradition

The design draws inspiration from the local vegetation spectrum and the traditional Korean greenhouse known as ‘Onsil’. By integrating the vernacular form with modern construction, the architects reinterpreted the greenhouse into a functional, climate-responsive retreat. Polycarbonate facades and a strategic air gap between the concrete walls allow heat retention and ventilation, creating a naturally balanced interior temperature throughout the year.

Spatial Layout and Courtyard Design

The retreat is organized around a central courtyard, which serves as both a light well and a natural ventilation chamber. Flanked by two guest bedrooms and a shared common area, the courtyard ensures daylight penetrates deep into the interior while supporting airflow from one end of the building to the other. The thoughtful integration of indoor-outdoor spaces encourages connection with the surrounding forest.

Site Integration and Thermal Strategy

Leveraging the site’s steep topography, the northern edge of the first floor is partially embedded into the earth. This makes the building appear two stories from the front and a single story from the rear. Pre-cast concrete Trombe and retaining walls provide structural stability and thermal efficiency, while the upper timber frame creates a warm, lightweight contrast. The orthogonal Z-shaped massing ensures the upper floor enjoys diverse views of the landscape while maintaining privacy on the retreat’s rear side.

Landscape Design: Biodiversity and Fringe Habitation

The retreat seamlessly merges architecture with nature. By converting former agricultural land into fringe habitation, the design encourages cohabitation of forest biodiversity with human habitation. At the boundaries of forest, garden, and building, layered landscaping using rocks, gravel, blocks, and native plants supports wild growth and enhances ecological richness.

Materials and Sustainability

Key materials such as polycarbonate, pre-cast concrete, and timber reflect a balance of modernity and tradition. The combination of these materials, together with passive ventilation and thermal strategies, creates a sustainable, energy-efficient retreat that respects both the environment and Korean architectural heritage.

All photographs are works of  Jang Mi