Pyeongchang-dong, nestled along the northern slopes of Bukhansan Mountain, has long been one of Seoul’s most sought-after neighborhoods for single-family homes, thanks to its elevated terrain and sweeping city views. Yet this desirable geography also brings complex challenges—steep slopes, limited buildable area, and strict height and view regulations. The client purchased a plot at one of the highest points in the area, a site that offers a dramatic southern panorama over the city but also imposes significant constraints due to its sharp incline and zoning limitations.
Faced with these conditions, the design began with a clear and pragmatic goal: to secure as much usable floor area as possible within the restricted buildable zone. A compact, efficient massing was adopted, and the southern façade—facing the view—was fully opened with floor-to-ceiling glazing to embrace the landscape, taking advantage of the site’s unique ability to feel both open and private. In contrast, the northern elevation, which fronts the road, was kept almost entirely closed, save for a single window intended for moving furniture and emergency access.
The spatial layout closely follows the terrain. The lowest level, though classified as a basement, opens outward to the forest and houses the bedrooms. The entry level, aligned with the street, contains the kitchen, dining, and living spaces. One level up, the most elevated floor—with uninterrupted views of the city—is used as a workspace, and above that, a rooftop lounge and terrace open directly to the sky. Across all floors, the clients’ distinct personal tastes are reflected through careful choices in material, tone, and furnishings, while the overall planning avoids unnecessary walls to maintain a sense of openness and fluidity.
Externally, the house is clad in black brick, creating a solid, closed presence on three sides. This dark, monolithic exterior contrasts with the southern façade, where exposed concrete and expansive glass reveal a soft, light-filled interior—an unexpected core within the hard shell.
The homeowners had a remarkably clear vision of their lifestyle and preferences, which was fully embraced in the design process. From the building’s overall form to the smallest interior objects, the house was shaped entirely around them. At first glance, it may seem simple, but within it lies a quiet clarity and character that is deeply personal.
