Seon Heul Sup House: A Harmonious Retreat in Jeju's Gotjawal Forests

The Seon Heul Sup House, designed by SOHUN Architects & Planners, is a stunning architectural project nestled in the enchanting landscapes of Jeju Island, South Korea. Located amidst the Gotjawal forests, this small house serves as a peaceful bed and breakfast (B&B) retreat, offering guests the opportunity to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying modern amenities. This article delves into the architectural design, spatial organization, and environmental integration of Seon Heul Sup House, exploring how it blends seamlessly with Jeju's pristine wilderness.

A Peaceful Getaway Amidst Jeju’s Gotjawal Forest

Jeju Island, renowned for its natural beauty, boasts the Gotjawal forests, which are often considered the “lungs” of the island. These lush forests, consisting of lava rock formations, maintain their greenery throughout the year. The unique topography created by volcanic activity forms an uneven terrain that supports a rich variety of vegetation, including trees, vines, and diverse flora. The Gotjawal forests represent both a natural sanctuary and a treasure trove of biodiversity.

Once regarded as an uninhabitable area due to its challenging terrain, Gotjawal has now emerged as a site of ecological significance, attracting conservation efforts and private projects aimed at preserving the area’s natural heritage. The Seon Heul Sup House stands as a testament to this shift in perception, blending modern architecture with the untouched beauty of Jeju’s forests.

Concept and Design Vision for Seon Heul Sup House

The Seon Heul Sup House was conceived as a retreat where visitors could fully experience the natural splendor of Jeju Island. The design was driven by the client’s vision to create a cozy space for guests, offering not only accommodation but also a chance to reconnect with nature. The house sits in the mid-mountainous region of Jeju, nestled between Albam Oreum and a quaint forest, offering captivating views of the Gotjawal forests.

Integration with Nature

The design of the house reflects an open and harmonious relationship with its surroundings. Featuring large glass windows and an open floor plan, the Seon Heul Sup House connects its interior spaces with the outdoors, ensuring that every room offers views of the lush greenery. The residence’s form—characterized by a gable roof and open spaces—ensures that nature is never far from view.

Spatial Organization of Seon Heul Sup House

The house is divided into two stories. On the first floor, the layout includes a bedroom, living room, kitchen, versatile room, and a bathroom. The second floor houses another bedroom and bathroom. The spaces are designed to be open and adaptable, with the varying terrain of Jeju Island helping define the flow of the interior.

First Floor: A Functional and Cozy Living Space

The first floor features the central living areas, including a kitchen designed to offer both functionality and a connection to nature. The kitchen is placed on the east side of the building, where it enjoys a visual link to the Gotjawal landscape. The space is partially sunken, creating a sense of tranquility while integrating with the natural surroundings. The kitchen design incorporates elements from traditional Jeju homes, such as the Jeongji kitchen layout, which includes a Chatbang (a wooden dining area) and Gulmuk (a fire pit), merging traditional aesthetics with modern living.

Second Floor: Privacy and Scenic Views

The second floor of the Seon Heul Sup House features the additional bedroom and bathroom, providing a more private space for guests. The large front windows connect the bedroom to the outdoor environment, allowing guests to wake up to panoramic views of the surrounding forest. The spatial design takes advantage of the varying terrain, with the upper floors offering a retreat-like ambiance, further promoting privacy and serenity.

Connecting Interior and Exterior

One of the key elements of the Seon Heul Sup House is its seamless connection between interior and exterior spaces. Large glass windows allow for uninterrupted views of the Gotjawal forests, making it feel as if the house is an extension of the landscape itself. This connection is further emphasized by external staircases that ascend to the upper levels while serving as a boundary wall to maintain privacy.

The integration of outdoor spaces, including an open jacuzzi and relaxation area, enhances the overall experience. The jacuzzi, situated amidst the natural surroundings, offers a healing retreat where guests can enjoy the therapeutic qualities of hot springs while immersed in the tranquility of the forest. Whether during the day or at night, this open space fosters relaxation and rejuvenation.

The Role of Natural Materials and Traditional Influence

The materials used in the design of the Seon Heul Sup House reflect both modern and traditional Jeju Island architecture. The exposed concrete walls, wooden beams, and stone elements evoke a sense of rustic charm while maintaining a minimalist aesthetic. The house’s use of local materials further strengthens its connection to Jeju’s landscape, allowing the building to blend into its environment without overpowering it.

The traditional Jeju kitchen elements incorporated into the design, such as the Gulmuk and Chatbang, bring cultural authenticity to the project. These elements, originally used in Jeju homes for cooking and heating, have been adapted for contemporary use, preserving the island’s heritage while serving modern needs.

A Retreat for the Soul

The Seon Heul Sup House is more than just a building; it’s a place where architecture and nature exist in perfect harmony. The design reflects a deep respect for the natural world, with the architects ensuring that every decision made—whether related to space, material, or function—aligns with the surrounding landscape.

The Emotional Experience

When staying at the Seon Heul Sup House, visitors are not only exposed to a beautiful and functional architectural space but are also given the opportunity to reconnect with nature. The sounds of birds chirping, leaves rustling in the wind, and the serene quiet of the forest become an integral part of the overall experience. The gentle natural light that filters through the house, combined with soft, indirect lighting at night, creates a calming atmosphere, ideal for guests seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

All Photographs are work of Yoon Joonhwan