Kim Geun-tae Memorial Library-Archives

_hyogeun_

Layer by layer stacked lands, layer by layer arranged buildings - The Kim Geun-tae Memorial Library

Dobong-dong, the northern gateway to Seoul, sits in a valley formed by the meeting of Dobongsan and Suraksan mountains. Jungnangcheon flows through, and remnants of military facilities that once cut through the area are visible. On one side are apartment complexes and houses that form the local community's foundation, and on the opposite side, rows of restaurants for tourists and hikers. The harmony of natural wonder, the marks of time, and the blend of habitats and playgrounds are visibly layered in this place, where a building, seemingly arranging these layers, stands out.

The Kim Geun-tae Memorial Library is located on the way to Dobongsan, standing stark against the backdrop of the mountain. The land, although directly adjacent to the main road at an oblique angle, is set back slightly from the road, naturally drawing people inside.

The small irregular plot imposes many constraints on construction. A 'Larchiveum' that goes beyond a simple library to remember the democratic figure, the late Kim Geun-tae, needing to clearly separate the space for its archive and museum functions without wasting any space.

To efficiently insert the desired programs into the tight space, the site is organized in a grid format. The library, archives, and exhibition hall are arranged in sequence, with one axis handling movement within the same space and another axis serving as a corridor for moving to different spaces. A vertical axis connects the floors with vertical circulation, allowing in-between spaces to offer views of Suraksan Mountain and a private external space through an atrium.

The building's exterior, with layers stacking upon each other and receding towards the back, creates rhythm and allows each space to have independent entrances, facilitating easy access.

Space under the stairs is used for bookshelves, and higher ceiling heights expand the spatial feeling. The rooftop features stepped terraces, making efficient use of the building without wasted space.

Just as the achievements of the late Kim Geun-tae offer lessons to us today, the building that houses them manifests in space and form, blending well with Dobong-dong, laden with layers of land and the imprints of time.

Architecture by Yeoneu Architects (@yeoneu_architects)
Photos, article by Hyogeun Shin (@_hyogeun_)

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