brick and zinc redefine a 1970s house in seoul’s myeongnyun-dong

Located in Myeongnyun-dong, Jongno-gu, an area in Seoul characterized by dense clusters of red brick buildings, this structure was originally constructed in 1974. The renovation by sukchulmok and BRBB reworks the existing building into a hybrid space that accommodates both studio and residential functions, while maintaining continuity with its historical context.

The intervention retains much of the original exterior, introducing limited contemporary additions that allow the building’s existing form, material irregularities, and relationship to the surrounding fabric to remain legible. New materials, including clay bricks that reference the original pattern and zinc-coated steel panels, are incorporated to define the updated envelope.

Myeongnyun-dong is a residential neighborhood characterized by red brick buildings | all images by Hong Seokgyu

sukchulmok + BRBB shape interior with wavy circular volumes

The collaborative design team between Studio sukchulmok + BRBB Architects organizes the interior through a system of circular volumes generated through iterative geometric logic. These forms, constructed from combinations of stone, wood, and steel, operate at multiple scales and serve various functions, including structural reinforcement, spatial enclosure, and integrated furniture. Each diameter is determined in response to specific spatial requirements. For instance, the ground-floor entrance incorporates a circular volume that draws the space inward, compensating for the absence of an external canopy. On the second floor, the stair hall is dimensioned to support circulation while integrating storage.

These circular elements extend throughout the interior, forming continuous, wave-like configurations that define walls, partitions, and built-in components. The consistency of this formal language contributes to spatial continuity while allowing for variation in use. Material surfaces remain largely exposed, with integrated systems for storage and concealment embedded within the volumes.

the project reforms an existing structure, aiming to preserve the character of the streetscape as much as possible

circular core and void organize flexible living and event space

On the ground floor, a central circular element encloses structural reinforcements while accommodating storage, mechanical systems, and lighting infrastructure. A void measuring approximately 3 by 2.5 meters is introduced near the front window, increasing vertical connectivity and creating a flexible space suitable for exhibitions or events.

The second floor is organized as a living area. Okoume plywood is used for wall surfaces, paired with a green-toned floor finish incorporating cork to establish a cohesive material palette. Circular geometries extend from the stair hall, wrapping structural elements and transitioning into functional components such as shelving, a sink, and bathroom partitions. Window openings are slightly rotated to manage views from adjacent buildings while maintaining visual openness.

The project establishes a spatial framework that accommodates both daily use and evolving creative activities, with an emphasis on adaptability, material continuity, and geometric coherence.

inserted beam structures transform into sculptural elements rather than serving as purely technical solutions

the material palette was created by combining contrasting physical properties into a unified whole

stone, steel, and wood are used in raw or minimally processed states to emphasize their inherent textures

appliances and mechanical systems are concealed within spatial volumes, avoiding conventional built-in furniture

curved walls integrate lighting, sound, and HVAC systems, allowing the spatial forms to perform multiple functions

the second floor is arranged as a private residential space

the basement functions as a flexible space for leisure and exhibitions

various adaptable elements, like doors and partitions, are incorporated throughout the project

doors and furniture-like partitions can be opened, detached, or reconfigured

finishes were intentionally minimized to reveal the materials in their most authentic state

project info:

name: Myeongnyun Sogul

architects: sukchulmok | @sukchulmok + BRBB | @brbb_arch

location: Myeongnyun-Dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea

photographer: Hong Seokgyu | @seokgyuhong

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