# 1968 Seoul Residence Transformed with Courtyard and Annex Isak Chung and Jinpyo Hong turn a historic house into a modern living space. - **Source:** [architecture archives | designboom | architecture & design magazine](https://brifing.si/source/1e716da2-18e6-4704-96a6-818e7860b99f) - **Published:** 2026-08-27 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/3e3eebc8-61de-4991-b3cf-5a5526148601 ## The Revival of a Historic House Located in Seoul's Yeonhui-dong neighborhood, Saekdong House is the result of renovating and extending a residence built in 1968. Architects Isak Chung and Jinpyo Hong preserved the original high ceilings and floor levels to maximize natural light. These features create a bright atmosphere despite the surrounding buildings casting shadows. ## Transition from City to Home The entrance of the house symbolizes a transition from urban life to a more serene living space. Nestled behind a narrow alley, the house gradually prepares visitors for a calm atmosphere. Additionally, the air-raid shelter beneath the house, built during tensions with North Korea, was integrated into the new design. ## Renovation with a Courtyard The old living room was completely removed to create a courtyard. This courtyard brings ample natural light and ventilation into the interior. The space gained from this change was used to build an annex on the southern side of the house. As a result, previously dark areas were illuminated. ## Reinforcement with Timber Framing The existing structure was reinforced using timber framing. This material preserves the historical texture of the house while offering a modern aesthetic. A low-ceilinged internal corridor connects the reorganized spaces. Outside, a green FRP eave provides protection from rain. ## Blending Tradition and Modernity The project draws inspiration from the traditional Korean technique 'saekdong,' where different colored fabrics are combined to create a single textile. Chung and Hong adapted this principle to architecture, keeping old and new elements together. Materials like timber and FRP blend visually. ## From Shelter to Living Space The air-raid shelter beneath the house was transformed into a usable area. The floor level was lowered to increase headroom. A sunken passage between the courtyard and annex brings daylight and movement to the lower levels. This way, the shelter became part of the home. ## Harmony of Materials and Details Saekdong House highlights the harmony of materials and details. Timber framing adds warmth to the interiors, while the green FRP eave protects the exterior. Simple yet effective details define the character of the renovated house. This approach combines historical texture with modern living. ## Success in a Challenging Project Saekdong House is a renovation project in a challenging urban plot. Instead of correcting the house's quirks, the architects made them part of the design. Thus, an old structure and a wartime shelter became components of a modern home. The project proves that historical preservation and modern living can coexist. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.designboom.com/architecture/1968-seoul-residence-is-reshaped-with-courtyard-annex-and-timber-frame/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._