**A House for Relaxing**
The site is located near Tongdosa Temple in Yangsan, an area surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery. The front of the site, seen from the entrance, as well as the view from the site itself, are both enclosed by mountains. We envisioned this house to resemble the ridgeline of a mountain, unique and unlike any other, or perhaps like a rock nestled in the foothills. We also wanted the house to embrace the stunning mountainous landscape, with the backdrop of Yeongchuksan and the panoramic view of Jeongjoksan in front, making the most of the surrounding scenery to create a house that offers a sense of retreat.
The difference in elevation between the road and the site naturally creates a sunken basement space. Upon entering through the sunken area, the mountain-like rooflines, which were felt from the outside, reveal themselves. The sunlight pours into the sunken space from different directions throughout the day, creating a dynamic sense of space that never feels monotonous. Entering the basement and passing through the courtyard to the house provides a sense of hospitality and welcome.
**Experiencing Various Volumes**
The upper part of the building is divided into three distinct volumes to harmonize with the surroundings. One volume houses the living room, dining room, and kitchen, another contains the private rooms, and the third is the staircase connecting the two.
The open-plan LDK (living, dining, kitchen) area is surrounded by windows on three sides, offering panoramic views of the courtyard and the distant landscape. The long, east-west-oriented space integrates the front yard, side yard, and entry courtyard, providing great potential for expansion. When viewed in section, the building flows from the highest point on the west side to the lower east side, with the kitchen starting at the highest point. The kitchen features tall cabinets like a vertical structure, followed by a dining area with a medium-height ceiling, and the living room, designed with a lower ceiling to create a cozy atmosphere when seated. The spatial arrangement is designed to align with the user’s activities, whether sitting, standing, or stretching out.
The staircase is located between the communal LDK space and the private rooms. It serves as the vertical circulation linking the first and second floors and includes a guest restroom. The entrance, also part of the staircase space, occupies the smallest footprint among the three volumes, but it has the tallest ceiling height, providing a refreshing sense of space as one enters the home.
The private rooms, such as the master bedroom and smaller rooms, are designed with the client’s personal preferences in mind, staying true to the basics. Rather than typical square windows, long strip windows were planned to allow the panoramic views experienced in the LDK to be felt in each room as well.
**A House for Leisurely Living**
The client wanted to create a space in the basement where they could enjoy life with family and friends in their later years. This basement serves as an independent "second home" and playground. The sunken courtyard, greeted by a straight bamboo garden, is the playground's yard, where in the daytime, the cool breeze from Jeongjoksan flows in, and at night, the sky is filled with stars. Facing this courtyard, there is a pool table and karaoke room, creating a space for joyous gatherings with friends. After spending time with guests, the client can relax in the yard, lying back, gazing at the stars, and enjoying a leisurely moment. Since this space is separated from the main living areas, there is no concern about noise, and a small restroom is provided so that guests do not need to enter the main house.
Just as the name "Yuyu-jeong" suggests—a house for relaxing—the client hopes this house will support a joyful and fulfilling life in their later years.