At One With Nature: Dayang Sanghoi in Seoul by TUNEplanning.

South Korean architect’s TUNEplanning have utilised the uneven topography of the Pyeongchang-dong region in Seoul, Korea, to build a space that magnifies the scale of its surrounding mountain, creating a safe haven from the city’s bustling atmosphere. The building was planned as an exhibition hall at first, but was later created as a private lounge through several changes of plan including the office, company training centre, studio, restaurant and cafe. Appropriately dubbed Dayang Sanghoi (Dayang meaning Diversity in Korean), this venue was designed to comfortably hold a variety of diverse events.

Having seamlessly integrated a plethora of natural elements into the final building, Dayang Sanghoi features a giant natural rock, open plan flooring and heavy pine elements. Above all, the space was designed to put nature at the forefront of visitors’ experience. A natural rock wall provides the backdrop for a seated bar and a pine tree descends from the upper mezzanine into the lounge. Even the furniture was placed haphazardly, as though formed by nature and without any intentional plan.

[Images courtesy of TUNEplanning. Photography © Jeong Taeho.]