**BIG STAIRS in Nonhyeon-dong**
The residential area of Nonhyeon-dong has been home to dense housing for many years, with older houses being gradually demolished and replaced by a variety of new buildings. As the commercial area expands and the neighborhood evolves rapidly, the street is changing to reflect these transformations. Amidst this shift, 'BIG STAIRS' stands in Nonhyeon-dong.
The site is located on a steep slope with heavy vehicle traffic, creating a rather chaotic environment with utility poles scattered like tangled wires. In such a complex space, simple massing and a monochromatic facade material are more likely to catch the eye. 'BIG STAIRS' in Nonhyeon-dong aims to give a calm and organized impression by using a neutral, white tile that minimizes color. The tile pattern is varied on each floor, offering a unique visual experience that sparks curiosity and leaves a distinctive impression on passersby.
The rental cost of commercial spaces is closely tied to accessibility and visibility. Spaces closer to the ground level typically have higher rent due to better access. Therefore, architects often face the challenge of guiding people naturally into the building. In this case, the steep terrain of the site is leveraged to make the basement level easily recognizable from the street, providing a pleasant space that feels as accessible as the ground floor. The second floor also features an external staircase leading to the upper levels, making it visually prominent and ensuring a smooth flow of movement between the floors. The lower levels are open and spacious, offering a more relaxed urban experience by opening up the street view and providing a sense of freedom to the surrounding area.
Due to sun exposure and shadow regulations in residential areas, buildings tend to taper off as they rise. In this case, the top floor is affected by these regulations, resulting in a space of less than 30 square meters. This made it unsuitable to plan the building with a typical core of elevators and stairwells. To solve this problem, external stairs were introduced in the area left open by the sun exposure regulations. The space beneath the stairs is used for an internal storage room, thereby maximizing usable space. The staircase itself not only serves as a functional element but also as a space where one can enjoy the urban landscape while walking up and down, and a shared terrace where people can relax and enjoy the open view. This shared terrace is designed to be a valuable space for taking a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, where one can feel the wind and experience the changing seasons.