COMFORT

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“Objet Blurring Boundaries” - Comfort Seoul

Layers distinguishing hierarchical space divide areas, yet stairs formed by these layers blur the boundaries between them. 'Comfort Seoul' adds an aesthetic element through stairs as objects, breaking down boundaries.

Located on the slopes of Namsan, Comfort Seoul is flanked by Dutbawi-ro in front and Sowol-ro behind. The 15m height difference, comparable to a 4-story building, diverges the characteristics of the two roads. It distinguishes between alleyways used by residents and wider roads for visitors, connecting buildings and cities, and divides spaces into quiet and lively areas.

Typically, buildings constructed on slopes use the rooftop for parking and the ground floor as the main entrance or vice versa, clearly defining the boundaries between lower and upper roads. However, this place starts breaking boundaries by turning the rooftop into an observation deck and further maximizes this through staircases that pull people up and down, merging contrasting streets.

The central staircase on the first floor reveals its presence, dividing the space into deep and shallow areas, weaving and ascending to split and protrude the mass of other floors. The dynamic stairs sometimes serve as a screen, shielding the house in front of the building and allowing for an unobstructed view of the sky and the Huam-dong view when the building disappears.

The relationship with the stairs defines the character of each floor, blurs the boundaries between the two roads, facilitates encounters, and enriches spatial experiences.

The rhythm started by the stairs extends to the surface of the stairs. Using vertical curves and negative molding captures verticality and rhythm, absorbing the diverse changes in Seoul. As a complex cultural space, it suits the building's purpose of gathering various people to create stories.

Adding aesthetic elements to its function, Comfort Seoul invigorates its surroundings and becomes a focal point that attracts people.

Architecture: Boundless Workshop (@boundless_korea)
Photo, Text: Hyogeun Shin (@_hyogeun_)

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Seoul, Yongsan-gu, Huam-dong 358-144
Daily 11:00-21:00 (Closed on Mondays)