HO ME YANG YANG
why

A Vivid Encounter Marked by Sensual Flavors

The space exudes exceptional vibrancy. Simple thoughts evoke a house, where someone's decisions optimize every detail: the wall frames, plant choices, table size, chair shape, and even the lighting. Crucially, these elements must reflect personal taste. In such spaces, we instantly sense the presence of the creator. Friendly observation, aesthetically mindful arrangements, and tools for enhancing moments characterize this space, which speaks to lifestyle in myriad ways.

Imagine a condensed representation of someone's taste becoming a Stay—Ho Me Yang Yang, denoting "a vast sea adorned with taste's beauty." Crafted from the host's refined taste and the intricate design of architectural stays, no detail is overlooked. Everything, even intangibles like sensuous layouts reminiscent of design furniture showrooms, TV dimensions, curtain lengths, and fragrances, is meticulously considered. Time in Ho Me Yang Yang brings novel visual experiences and profound repose. Adjacent to the serene sea, it's a realm where fate and inspiration intertwine.
people

When Space Morphs into Narrative

Ho Me Yang Yang came to life courtesy of Stay Architects and builders with a penchant for modernist aesthetics, renowned for crafting brand identities through spatial design. Right from the project's genesis, shared concerns about its trajectory were paramount, serving as the cornerstone of their efforts. A noteworthy aspect is its profound reflection of the owner's distinct taste. The builder's request for an uncomplicated design, a tripartite architectural configuration, found resonance with Stay Architects. Their aspiration was to seamlessly fuse the tactile allure of a curated boutique, replete with designer furnishings, with the very essence of Hajodae Beach. As specialists in fostering inviting environments, Stay Architects conscientiously contemplated techniques to infuse warmth into the space, counterbalancing the potential coolness of minimalism.

The exterior design embraces the coastal identity while employing materials that evoke a sense of stability, maintaining a harmonious equilibrium. The interior, in contrast, embraces valuable contemporary furniture. Despite its proximity to the ocean, Ho Me Yang Yang avoids excessive maritime symbolism. Instead, it captures the understated elegance and tranquility intrinsic to Hajodae Beach, elegantly encapsulating the locale's essence. Stay Architects and the builders meticulously curated this space with a particular demographic in mind: those drawn to the proximity of the sea yet content with the retreat, individuals who prefer the comfort of their accommodation over seaside activities. Their vision was to craft an environment where nature's presence is seamlessly woven, fostering comfort and a sense of proximity to the ocean.
HO ME YANG YANG
location

The Tranquility Embraced by the Seashore

Ho Me Yang Yang lies a mere 3-minute stroll away from Hajodae Beach. In contrast to other bustling beaches in Yangyang, Hajodae Beach remains a haven for surfers and vacationers, preserving a sense of serenity. The shoreline is adorned with unobtrusive buildings, emitting occasional music from nearby businesses, yet the predominant sounds are the rhythmic waves and intermittent laughter of families. Stay Architects painstakingly endeavored to encapsulate the tranquil ambiance of Hajodae Beach within their space. Even as future development may increase the surrounding density, the internal layouts have been thoughtfully designed to maintain an air of calmness.

While the beach is within walking distance, the deliberate decision to not make sea views prominent within the space has enriched the diverse landscape composition. A central garden at the entrance, private gardens leading to each building, and the intimate spaces between fences and structures are all part of this thoughtful arrangement. By not solely focusing on open views to the sea, the frames that capture varied landscapes from within provide distinct ways to engage with nature. This design strategy has liberated Ho Me Yang Yang from being tied exclusively to the summer or seaside. Instead, it offers the freedom to appreciate nature's beauty regardless of the visiting season.
MAKING STORY

Ho Me Yang Yang was envisioned as a segmented lodging, aligning with the owner's preferences. The division comprised a reception-equipped management area, House A for a party of four, and House B tailored for two. The structural segmentation initially raised concerns regarding privacy. The instinct to erect distinct walls to signify separate spaces could inadvertently obstruct outward views from within.

In navigating these concerns within the confines of limited space, the focus shifted to maximizing elements with potential utility. Instead of layering additional fencing, the building's outer wall melded seamlessly with the fence, while elongated vertical openings transcended the wall's height. This design aimed to achieve a harmonious fusion of interior and exterior without inducing any sense of confinement. Furthermore, recognizing the presence of an interior-exterior demarcation, a diverse array of interior landscapes was thoughtfully orchestrated, introducing visual delight. Darkened foliage outside the fixed bedroom windows, a well-curated bathroom view, and a central focus in the living room—each corner offered an engaging visual touchpoint.#
In the project's early stages, the Ho Me Yang Yang site found itself amidst a context of modest surrounding density. While recognizing the potential for heightened density and floor area, the building's owner made a striking decision to opt for a single-story structure, prioritizing a serene ambiance. Despite the profitability and ocean views often associated with beachside high-rises, this choice showcased a resolute commitment to elevating the spatial aesthetic. Subsequently, the central layout of the building was crafted in harmony with local attributes, drawing inspiration from the concept of a "wave-like house." With privacy in mind, entrance pathways diverged on either side, and the intimate aura was further enhanced through creative fencing. Each building features a gable roof, evoking the essence of detached homes and giving rise to a visual of roofs above low fences from a distance. The roof material, a bone steel plate, exudes subtle luminosity. Furthermore, materials with an industrial flair that resonates harmoniously with the sea—like glass blocks and polycarbonates—were thoughtfully incorporated. Conversely, the interior hosts the gentle presence of resolved birch trees, juxtaposing the seaside experience with a touch of forested aesthetics.

The exterior and interior moods stand in contrast, yet this contrast is harmonious, yielding a modern and uplifting atmosphere. Stay Architects aspired to seamlessly meld the sea's static impression with an unconfined atmosphere. This endeavor was underscored by a dominant blue hue, marked by high saturation, mirroring the undulating waves that symbolize Ho Me Yang Yang. Through each stage, a concerted effort was invested in conceptualizing and executing a cohesive experience, transcending conventional architecture and interior design to function as a brand-like space.#
SPACE

A Moment of Distinction

The central garden, ever-changing with the seasons, extends a warm welcome to visitors. As you venture into the left alley, the entrance to House A comes into view, and the breeze animates the plants between spaces in a welcoming dance. Passing through the entrance, light filtered through glass blocks infuses the area with a gentle glow. The living room features a communal table for around four individuals, supplemented by a modest TV that harmoniously integrates with the room's versatility. The setting encourages leisurely conversations over wine or moments enveloped in music—a layout designed to foster shared experiences and conversations. Notably, House A boasts a unique element: a small attic accessible by a blue ladder. At the attic's zenith lies a skylight, offering a window to the heavens. This nook becomes an inviting spot to stargaze during late-night gatherings. The bedroom beneath the attic gazes upon a serene rear shrine, framing the outside scenery for relaxation. Inside this bedroom rests a capacious bathtub, accompanied by a horizontally elongated window at eye level, enabling one to savor a warm bath while relishing the garden view. The second bedroom, situated adjacent to the kitchen, opens to the front garden through double-edged doors. This room's ambiance feels expansively connected to the outdoors, engendering a liberating atmosphere. Hujeong, adorned with beach-evoking textures—large round stones and low-growing plants—invites leisurely conversations around its table or serene strolls to savor the garden.

House B distinctly showcases the personality of its space, subtly delineated from House A. The landscaping in the driveway stands out with its meticulous arrangement. While relatively petite, designed for up to three occupants, every corner boasts captivating elements. Striped circular columns and glass blocks, lights and fixtures adorned in vivid hues, and pendant fixtures contribute to its unique atmosphere. A medley of windows of varying sizes amplifies spatial diversity. Especially noteworthy is the living room, sunken below floor level, which beckons individuals to gather on the sofa for video game sessions or TV entertainment. The open front window bridges the indoor and outdoor realms, facilitating a comfortable communion with nature. House B strategically employs windows of diverse heights and sizes, collectively ushering in an abundance of light, fostering a luminous ambiance. The bedroom incorporates a slender, elongated window that safeguards privacy, while the adjacent bathroom, through its expansive window, frames an external vista. Notable is the generous size of the bathroom, inviting a structural experience within the space. With its broad wash basin and bathtub, it transforms routine into cherished moments. The curated design objects and arrangements add a three-dimensional visual dimension. This intricately designed setting is a haven for both daily routines and extraordinary experiences, inviting inhabitants to explore the subtle boundary between the ordinary and the exceptional.
INTERVIEW

stayfolio
HO ME YANG YANG
Greetings, Director Hong Jung-hee. Could you please share your vision for integrating Ho Me Yang Yang with the local surroundings?
Prior to Ho Me Yang Yang, I was involved in crafting the accommodations known as Sunny Side Up. Positioned near the beach in a coastal village, it attracted a younger crowd. In contrast, Hajodae Beach tends to draw quieter family gatherings. Thus, my aspiration was for this space to exude an even greater sense of tranquility and serenity. The site remained undeveloped until we embarked on the initial design and eventual completion. While the forthcoming development may increase the surrounding density, I believed there would always be individuals seeking a more serene sanctuary amidst it all.
Externally serene, internally vibrant.ㄴㅇㄹㅇㄴㅇㄹㄴㅇㄹㅇㄴㄹ
Our aim was to present Hajodae through our personal lens. While the ocean is an undeniable presence, our intention was to capture its distinct essence without overwhelming the space with sheer volume. In crafting the interior, our foremost priority was aligning with the owner's preferences. Striking a balance between the restraint of minimalism and the intrinsic traits of the sea's locale, we envisioned a seamless fusion of industrial elements—glass blocks and bone steel plates—to organically meld the two aspects together.
Could you share the thought process behind your design approach?
Primarily, the design unfolds as an experiential journey upon entering Ho Me Yang Yang. It commences with the visual embrace of the central garden, followed by a stroll along a path paved with stepping stones. As you venture into each principal building, distinct intimate spaces unveil themselves. While driven by architectural principles, our concept also encompasses crafting these small pockets of space—between fences and main structures, or within the interplay of A-Wing and B-Wing—and adorning them with landscaping. By allowing diverse entry points, we sought to impart a sense of novelty with each entrance and create a varied ambiance through the distribution of these landscaped enclaves.
Do you recall any noteworthy experiences from the construction phase?
Given that Ho Me Yang Yang features a wooden framework, meticulous leveling was paramount to prevent foundational deterioration. Instead of adhering strictly to the blueprint, I engaged in extensive discussions with the contractor while gauging the terrain's conditions. Notably, the corrugated roof design raised concerns about potential rain noise permeating the interior spaces. Thus, we deliberated extensively on the selection of fillers and padding materials to effectively mitigate external sounds, ensuring a tranquil resting environment from the project's inception.
Have you implemented any particular measure
Deliberately, the lighting remains softly subdued. Given Ho Me Yang Yang’s prevailing minimalist interior and substantial white elements, overly bright illumination risked unsettling the spatial harmony. Initially, we introduced more wooden materials, and birch trees were integrated to counterbalance the contemporary furniture and ambience's cool undertones. Yet, this heightened the prominence of white elements. To restore equilibrium, we employed tactics like laying a carpet in the sunken dining area, installing lengthy curtains, and incorporating splashes of color to calibrate the atmosphere and invoke warmth.
Have you implemented specific strategies to imbue the entire space with a warm ambiance?
The lighting has been intentionally kept gentle, aligning with Ho Me Yang Yang’s overarching minimalist design and prevalent white aesthetics. This approach prevents excessively bright illumination from disrupting the spatial harmony. In the initial phases, we introduced a greater presence of wooden materials, and the inclusion of birch trees was intended to counterbalance the cool undertones inherent to modern furniture and the general atmosphere. However, this inadvertently accentuated the prominence of the white elements. To restore a harmonious balance, we employed tactics such as placing a carpet in the sunken dining area, installing long curtains, and infusing the environment with pops of color, all contributing to a well-calibrated atmosphere exuding warmth.
What endeavors have you undertaken to cultivate a pervasive atmosphere throughout the space?
I recognized that every element interacting with the space contributes to its final character, encompassing not just architecture and interior design but also the amenities utilized within. Even the products enhancing the space play a significant role. While I could have used existing products, I opted to craft Ho Me Yang Yang’s unique fragrance myself. Although others have embarked on similar ventures, I aspired to create a locally-crafted essence, rather than relying on a ubiquitous brand. Thus, I dedicated substantial time to find someone capable of concocting a distinct Ho Me Yang Yang scent. Collaborating closely with our partners, we infused the space with the precise ambiance and demeanor we envisioned. Consequently, the outcome showcases an environment where even the architectural elements are accentuated, underscoring a unified whole.
You were honored with the Gangwon Architecture and Culture Award in 2022.
Indeed, that's correct. I didn't anticipate much, but fortunately, the opportunity arose. Reflecting on the journey, Ho Me Yang Yang afforded ample time for contemplation alongside the owner, right from the inception of the design. Initially, the spatial composition differed from its current form, undergoing two significant alterations driven by considerations of business viability and personal taste. Amidst the project's progression, we drew inspiration from the plethora of STAYs on Jeju Island, engaging in a process of shared observation and ongoing discussions to craft a remarkable space. Winning the award vividly brought these memories to the forefront of my mind. so sad
STAY

Embracing Tranquility akin to Gentle Waves

There are moments when solace is found in merely being by the sea. The rhythmic cadence of waves and the vast unknown horizon can imbue a sense of tranquility, flattening our concerns. Like grains of sand reuniting with the tide, worries seem to dissolve as they are carried away by the ocean's embrace. Ho Me Yang Yang embodies the magnanimity of such waters. It extends a mindful invitation, urging each visitor to relinquish their daily burdens and wholeheartedly immerse themselves in the stay experience.

What further distinguishes this space is its origin in the preferences of an individual. The process of curating and sharing what resonates with one's taste carries a sense of joy. The well-crafted environment exudes stability and comfort. It's the accumulation of worries interwoven with overlapping tastes that gave birth to a homely haven. Ho Me Yang Yang, where hosts and guests communicate through shared sensibilities, pulsates with vitality.
4 POINT OF VIEW

ORIGINALITY

An Emotionally Crafted Medley of Flavors

Exploring a place curated with handpicked items, each chosen according to individual perspectives and criteria, can be an enjoyable experience. When these tastes intertwine, a sense of empathetic delight arises, and in the absence of preconceived notions of beauty, the thrill of discovery unfolds. It's a seamless fusion of architecture and interior design – a modest union. Devoting time to personally experience a diverse array of design pieces grants a fresh wellspring of inspiration.

DESIGN

A Balanced Blend of Tidy Exterior and Lively Interior

Ho Me Yang Yang leaves an initial impression of slight aloofness, yet upon closer acquaintance, it reveals a character imbued with a welcoming allure. The building's outer facade exudes a sense of stillness through its clean lines and industrial materials, while the interior radiates warmth, courtesy of gently textured birch accents and comforting lighting. The interplay between the contrasting elements of exterior and interior imparts a three-dimensional depth that eludes capture within a solitary ambiance.

Hospitality

Mindful Elements to Embrace the Present

Engaging all five senses can elevate the memorability of any given moment. Ho Me Yang Yang perceived the aroma and experiential aspects of space as an extension of design, expanding beyond mere architecture and interior arrangement. Teaming up with a local perfumer, a fragrance was crafted to resonate with the homely essence, while carefully selected bedding and bath soaps were chosen to facilitate profound relaxation. Thoughtfully integrated conveniences, designed for comfort, extend a pervasive sense of welcome throughout.

PRICE

The Allure of Direct Encounter

Just as an individual's narrative can ignite novel perspectives, Ho Me Yang Yang imparts the art of infusing everyday existence with refinement. When even a modest item is situated within the realm of discernment, it warrants a second contemplation. A day spent in Ho Me Yang Yang transcends a mere fleeting encounter; it's a venture into the lives of each inhabitant. Deliberating upon personal preferences, one departs the space with a heart brimming with cheerfulness.

Stay Name
HO ME YANG YANG

Stay Type
Rental House

Contact information

Address
48-19, Hajodae 2-gil, Hyeonbuk-myeon, Yangyang-gun, Gangwon-do, Republic of Korea

Guests / No. of Room
2~5 / 2

Price
US$ 275.91 ~ US$ 459.84

Check-in / out
16:00 / 11:00

Feature
Projector or TV, Kitchenette, Tub (ex. Jacuzzi, Hinoki)

PHOTO BY Kihun Park, Giung Hong | WRITTEN BY Hyun Yejin |
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