In Napeup-ri, Aewol-eup, Jeju Island, a stone house with volcanic stone walls remain. In this farming village, the cultivator, a motorised agricultural tool, was not only an essential farming implement but also a vital mode of transport. Even today, some farms continue to rely on it for daily activities.
The Stone House In South Korea Stands Out For Its Form | Atelier O
Farmers who used cultivators created narrow pathways, called olle-gil. Along the width of the volcanic stone walls, they placed their vehicles. When the cultivator was parked at home, the home owner placed a shutter over the stone wall entrance to protect the space within. This unique integration of volcanic stone walls and cultivators gave rise to a lifestyle system. It became synonymous with the home itself.
The Life of Jeju and Accommodatio Design – Inspired by the snail-like arrangement of volcanic stone walls, the design creates a large, enclosed courtyard that is both protective and serene, with small lodging spaces nestled within. The designers arrange these lodging units to form front and rear courtyards and seamlessly connect them to the accommodations, creating intimate yet abundant spaces.
Travelers arriving by car are guided by the volcanic stone walls, just as the farmers’ cultivators once were, to park directly adjacent to their lodging space. Continuing along these stone pathways, guests are led into deeply private and enriching spaces, where the interplay between volcanic stone walls, courtyards, and accommodations offers a unique and immersive experience.
Spaces Created by Volcanic Stone Walls – The lounge building at the forefront protects the two lodging units from the main road while offering guests a panoramic view of Hallasan Mountain. On either side of the lounge, volcanic stone-wall olle-gil pathways guide vehicles to the lodging units.
After parking, these pathways further lead guests into private and secluded spaces. Centered around the lodging units, the courtyards formed by volcanic stone walls are juxtaposed with the accommodations, enriching the spatial experience and expanding the sense of connection to the environment.
Fact File
Designed by: Atelier O
Project Type: Residential Architecture Design
Project Name: Stone Wall Stay House
Location: Jeju-si, South Korea
Year Built: 2024
Project Size: 3143.06 Sq.ft
Principal Architect: Jiho Kang
Design Credits: Kangwoo Jang
Photograph Courtesy: Jang Mi
Structural Engineer: Jaewon Lee
Mechanical Engineer: Codam ENC/ Dongsoek Choi
Contractor: LO stay/ Jaehyo Kim
Source: Archdaily
Firm’s Website Link: Atelier O
Firm’s Instagram Link: Atelier O
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