of.onebookstay
why
When a Book Fulfills the Insufficient of Ordinary Life
Surrounded by countless digital devices and bombarded with new information and exciting stimulation, we’re living in a time where we can’t fully concentrate on one page, let alone finish an entire book. As Lewis Buzbee said in his book, The Yellow-Lighted Bookshop, reading is accompanied with “slowness” and requires time, so it seems challenging to make it happen. It’s a possibility that exists only when it’s read “like a score of music or the seed of plants,” so enough time and focus is necessary to sprout the seeds, said Rebecca Solnit in The Faraway Nearby. The better the book is, the more the “mental cost” is, which means reading slowly and understanding the meaning behind it. But when a smartphone conveniently brings a vast trove of information with less intellectual effort, seldom do we want to pay that mental cost. As Park Chong said in his book Words of Reading, reading a book has become something that goes against the trend.
Nonetheless, books stop us and give us a moment to think. Furthermore, we know exactly when the story starts and ends in physical books. This property of physical books is absolutely irreplaceable. Getting over the temptation of putting a book down, we hold on to it, slowly following a sentence. It almost feels like a book is reading us, when it invites us to think. We find comfort from books that we grabbed without any expectations and we also find them capturing emotions and thoughts that we frequently face although we can’t quite articulate them. In the same book by Park Chong, it says, “(Books) are the gentle hands to raise me up when I want to give up and collapse on the steep slope of my life.”
Where a Nuha-dong in Seochon, Seoul narrow alley ends, there is of.onebookstay under a grape tree, a hanok (traditional Korean house) stay that embraces a small yet mysterious courtyard. As its name suggests, of.onebookstay presents us a book to read and a day to rest. We read in the courtyard under the sky that’s given to us, and we follow the lights coming through the windows, tracing the flow of time. Words on the book sound like a lullaby, slowing down the pace of our life but at the same time they fill our heart with warmth. Trying to ingrain meaning in every sentence, we can gain inner strength to continue our life again.
Staying at a place to read a book is a novel idea, which comes from Stayfolio and Z_Lab’s wish to incorporate wisdom of Korean ancestors into the concept of relaxation. Of.onebookstay is the second location after Nuwa that featured the spirit of art and entertainment of the Joseon Dynasty. They reinterpreted Sagadokseoje in a modern way, King Sejong’s policy to give reading time to young scholars (1419–50). A story of the book, that is part of Seochon’s long history, is told here in a form of stay that will allow you to immerse yourself in your private time. Of.onebookstay connects books to books as well as books to people, letting them stay in the blank space. I’d like to invite you to the slow journey that of.onebookstay presents.
Nonetheless, books stop us and give us a moment to think. Furthermore, we know exactly when the story starts and ends in physical books. This property of physical books is absolutely irreplaceable. Getting over the temptation of putting a book down, we hold on to it, slowly following a sentence. It almost feels like a book is reading us, when it invites us to think. We find comfort from books that we grabbed without any expectations and we also find them capturing emotions and thoughts that we frequently face although we can’t quite articulate them. In the same book by Park Chong, it says, “(Books) are the gentle hands to raise me up when I want to give up and collapse on the steep slope of my life.”
Where a Nuha-dong in Seochon, Seoul narrow alley ends, there is of.onebookstay under a grape tree, a hanok (traditional Korean house) stay that embraces a small yet mysterious courtyard. As its name suggests, of.onebookstay presents us a book to read and a day to rest. We read in the courtyard under the sky that’s given to us, and we follow the lights coming through the windows, tracing the flow of time. Words on the book sound like a lullaby, slowing down the pace of our life but at the same time they fill our heart with warmth. Trying to ingrain meaning in every sentence, we can gain inner strength to continue our life again.
Staying at a place to read a book is a novel idea, which comes from Stayfolio and Z_Lab’s wish to incorporate wisdom of Korean ancestors into the concept of relaxation. Of.onebookstay is the second location after Nuwa that featured the spirit of art and entertainment of the Joseon Dynasty. They reinterpreted Sagadokseoje in a modern way, King Sejong’s policy to give reading time to young scholars (1419–50). A story of the book, that is part of Seochon’s long history, is told here in a form of stay that will allow you to immerse yourself in your private time. Of.onebookstay connects books to books as well as books to people, letting them stay in the blank space. I’d like to invite you to the slow journey that of.onebookstay presents.
people
Of.onebookstay, Space Created by People Seochon Has Connected
Books connect people and books. As Park Chong’s book says, “Books do have power to attract people,” Seochon also seems to have that mysterious power as it is a place where many different stories related to books are found. Connections that Seochon and books made all meet here. Of.onebookstay was initially a house where a young married couple lived for 4 years after they bought and fixed up an old small hanok by themselves in Seochon. They accentuated the hanok’s natural beauty while breathing adequate modern interpretation into it. But as they moved out, they wanted Stayfolio to take care of their space.
When Z_Lab first saw the house, it had the couple’s simple yet elegant touch. It was truly a gorgeous place where they could trace their lifestyle and taste, which is unique to them. Wherever their eyes rested, there were books. It was as if books were the part of the family. That was around the time when Z_Lab was planning a bookstore, of-onebook. Above all, they were captivated by the atmosphere that surrounded by books. So it was an easy decision to set the concept as a book.
After wrestling with many ideas, they decided on Sagadokseoje as the theme to revive the stories of books that are entrenched in Seochon’s history, the concept that can’t be separated from the concept of “relaxation.” The region Seochon brings tightly together the idea of a stay and a book, where space for resting meets a classic way to read. This idea led to the effort to reflecting the modern value of concentrating on one book into a space experience and creating a new narrative.
“We wanted to make a space where we can comfortably read books. We thought it was important to create blank space between books and people.” They tried to create a space that brings people closer to books, encouraging them to read, rather than making them feel overwhelmed. Books were obviously an essential consideration. However, the priority in the project was not to disturb the original function of the stay, which is resting. They carefully curated books with the bookstore’s members, placed a decent number of books and set a tone of the place in a consistent manner so guests can feel Korean sentiment that can be found only in a hanok.
The place is filled with book-related experiences. Guests can copy the words from the books they like. They can also find handwritten quotes from the books of book lovers. Stationery items are prepared here so people can write more easily. These thoughtful extra items only make physical books more appealing. Meanwhile, Bookmark created with the theme of the traditional Korean painting, Chaekgado, Scholar's Accoutrement, and a brochure with the words rok (錄), meaning record, and chaek (冊), meaning documents, engraved showcase the unique identity of the place. A welcome drink, called Jueumyadok, reflects local culture. It is a non-alcoholic cocktail made in collaboration with Lim Byung-jin, the bartender of Bar Cham in the same area.
A space that revolved around the theme of books, Z_Lab and Stayfolio awakens the emotions from the old and classic to make our life stronger. They plan to continue their collaboration under the big theme “Seochon pleasure,” by connecting hidden spots of Seochon with Z_Stay. They aim to discover the potential of the local so I’m curious to see what is going to be the next project.
When Z_Lab first saw the house, it had the couple’s simple yet elegant touch. It was truly a gorgeous place where they could trace their lifestyle and taste, which is unique to them. Wherever their eyes rested, there were books. It was as if books were the part of the family. That was around the time when Z_Lab was planning a bookstore, of-onebook. Above all, they were captivated by the atmosphere that surrounded by books. So it was an easy decision to set the concept as a book.
After wrestling with many ideas, they decided on Sagadokseoje as the theme to revive the stories of books that are entrenched in Seochon’s history, the concept that can’t be separated from the concept of “relaxation.” The region Seochon brings tightly together the idea of a stay and a book, where space for resting meets a classic way to read. This idea led to the effort to reflecting the modern value of concentrating on one book into a space experience and creating a new narrative.
“We wanted to make a space where we can comfortably read books. We thought it was important to create blank space between books and people.” They tried to create a space that brings people closer to books, encouraging them to read, rather than making them feel overwhelmed. Books were obviously an essential consideration. However, the priority in the project was not to disturb the original function of the stay, which is resting. They carefully curated books with the bookstore’s members, placed a decent number of books and set a tone of the place in a consistent manner so guests can feel Korean sentiment that can be found only in a hanok.
The place is filled with book-related experiences. Guests can copy the words from the books they like. They can also find handwritten quotes from the books of book lovers. Stationery items are prepared here so people can write more easily. These thoughtful extra items only make physical books more appealing. Meanwhile, Bookmark created with the theme of the traditional Korean painting, Chaekgado, Scholar's Accoutrement, and a brochure with the words rok (錄), meaning record, and chaek (冊), meaning documents, engraved showcase the unique identity of the place. A welcome drink, called Jueumyadok, reflects local culture. It is a non-alcoholic cocktail made in collaboration with Lim Byung-jin, the bartender of Bar Cham in the same area.
A space that revolved around the theme of books, Z_Lab and Stayfolio awakens the emotions from the old and classic to make our life stronger. They plan to continue their collaboration under the big theme “Seochon pleasure,” by connecting hidden spots of Seochon with Z_Stay. They aim to discover the potential of the local so I’m curious to see what is going to be the next project.
location
Slow-Paced Day Between Seochon’s Alley and Books
Hustle and bustle of Seoul doesn’t apply to Seochon, located in the west of Gyeongbokgung Palace at the foot of the Inwangsan Mountain. Trace of time and memory is embedded in every narrow alley and stretched in front of your eyes like a maze. Unlike typical Seoul that constantly changes driven by desire for more development, you will be able to feel the slow-paced time here as you walk through cozy little alleys.
The time-enduring hanok and the old streets maintain an uncanny balance with our modern life. People who live their life with no pretension and do what their heart says are usually the residents of Seochon. Probably for that reason, it exudes the vibe and landscape that is unique to its own. When you step into Tongin Traditional Market and Sejong Village Street, you will feel the friendliness from everywhere and as you turn the corner from there you will see small art museums and galleries. Hidden gems of distinctive shops have been standing here for a long time. Each shop’s identity adds a unique tone of what the area is like.
Book related histories and stories are also deep and wide in Seochon. The area is well known to be the birth place of many scholars of the past. For example, King Sejong was born in Seochon, which back then was called Junsubang. There is also the house of both Jeongcheol whose penname was Songgang and Lee Hang-bok, a renowned statesman and scholar of Joseon Dynasty. In the modern era, poets and writers such as Yoon Dong-ju, Roh Cheon-myeong and Lee Sang had stayed in this area. Just like this, books seem to be an inseparable identity of Seochon, but somehow bookstores in the town never stayed long enough. Lee Sang-muk, the CEO of Stayfolio, found it quite sad, especially when his favorite bookstore Gagarin has disappeared as well. So he decided to utilize one of the available stores—only 10m2 in size—to turn it into a bookstore, called of-onebook. It was his effort to preserve the unique identity of Seochon.
This time, he breathes the life of books into a stay space. Physical contact with books and a small yet profound hanok together leads slow journey in Seochon. After turning three times past a narrow but interesting entrance, you will see a small wooden gate under a grape tree vine. You will feel like opening a book, as you enter the house because hanok is in the shape of “ㄷ.” I slowly walk through the alleys of Seochon during the day and stay in a place that encourages me to immerse in the book. That’s how of.onebookstay completes a trip in Seochon.
The time-enduring hanok and the old streets maintain an uncanny balance with our modern life. People who live their life with no pretension and do what their heart says are usually the residents of Seochon. Probably for that reason, it exudes the vibe and landscape that is unique to its own. When you step into Tongin Traditional Market and Sejong Village Street, you will feel the friendliness from everywhere and as you turn the corner from there you will see small art museums and galleries. Hidden gems of distinctive shops have been standing here for a long time. Each shop’s identity adds a unique tone of what the area is like.
Book related histories and stories are also deep and wide in Seochon. The area is well known to be the birth place of many scholars of the past. For example, King Sejong was born in Seochon, which back then was called Junsubang. There is also the house of both Jeongcheol whose penname was Songgang and Lee Hang-bok, a renowned statesman and scholar of Joseon Dynasty. In the modern era, poets and writers such as Yoon Dong-ju, Roh Cheon-myeong and Lee Sang had stayed in this area. Just like this, books seem to be an inseparable identity of Seochon, but somehow bookstores in the town never stayed long enough. Lee Sang-muk, the CEO of Stayfolio, found it quite sad, especially when his favorite bookstore Gagarin has disappeared as well. So he decided to utilize one of the available stores—only 10m2 in size—to turn it into a bookstore, called of-onebook. It was his effort to preserve the unique identity of Seochon.
This time, he breathes the life of books into a stay space. Physical contact with books and a small yet profound hanok together leads slow journey in Seochon. After turning three times past a narrow but interesting entrance, you will see a small wooden gate under a grape tree vine. You will feel like opening a book, as you enter the house because hanok is in the shape of “ㄷ.” I slowly walk through the alleys of Seochon during the day and stay in a place that encourages me to immerse in the book. That’s how of.onebookstay completes a trip in Seochon.
MAKING STORY
GRIDS took charge of of.onebookstay’s construction and furniture production. This was the second time Z_Lab and GRIDS collaborated after the first project, Nuwa. Borrowing the concept from Chaekgado, they designed and produced a bookcase and other furniture. The house initially had two plaid window bars and frames, so they tried to make it simpler by using hanji, traditional Korean paper, which is relatively plain with less patterns. Warmth of the lights and design of the lamps were also another focus: Poul Henningsen’s PH-lamps add soft light and a romantic vibe to the space. Staybinder’s IoT service assures guests have no discomfort in adjusting the lighting and choosing music.
Courtyard space is no exception in boasting a sophisticated touch. Plumbing and location of the septic tank prevented the bathtub in the house, but instead a small foot bath tub is provided. Consequently, the space actually turned out to be more suitable for reading. Walls surrounded by bamboo trees and a birch tree visible from every angle further intensify the simple yet beautiful style of the traditional house. Cotone and Sutome Apothecary also joined the project as usual members. Cotone’s fabric and Sutome Apothecary’s scent make memories here more special.
Courtyard space is no exception in boasting a sophisticated touch. Plumbing and location of the septic tank prevented the bathtub in the house, but instead a small foot bath tub is provided. Consequently, the space actually turned out to be more suitable for reading. Walls surrounded by bamboo trees and a birch tree visible from every angle further intensify the simple yet beautiful style of the traditional house. Cotone and Sutome Apothecary also joined the project as usual members. Cotone’s fabric and Sutome Apothecary’s scent make memories here more special.
The owner couple went through renovating of.onebookstay from an old and worn out hanok to the current look that serves modern needs while still highlighting the style and simple beauty of the house. The house didn’t need any extra touch architecturally because the couple maintained and took care of the house. But a few elements of the house needed to be removed and organized to fit its identity as a single-family house stay. The biggest make-over took place at the dining area under the attic, which used to be a closet and laundry room. By clearing out this space, the dining area was able to accommodate a large table so a many people can sit around and enjoy things like reading, eating or having a cup of tea.
There were many ideas on how to change the function of the second floor’s attic but it eventually became a place to collect thoughts or meditate by providing a floor table and a chair. It accentuates the beauty of space. Although a red pine is the most quality pine material for building a hanok, with its excellent durability, the color didn’t match well so it had to be changed. As a result, this space has a heavy atmosphere with darker color and texture. They also produced and placed comfortable furniture that would assist guests when reading books.
There were many ideas on how to change the function of the second floor’s attic but it eventually became a place to collect thoughts or meditate by providing a floor table and a chair. It accentuates the beauty of space. Although a red pine is the most quality pine material for building a hanok, with its excellent durability, the color didn’t match well so it had to be changed. As a result, this space has a heavy atmosphere with darker color and texture. They also produced and placed comfortable furniture that would assist guests when reading books.
SPACE
Another Space to Stay between Books
Once you pass the familiar scenery of alleys, of.onebookstay reveals the space for your immersion in books. The “ㄷ” shaped hanok fully embraces a patch of green in its front yard, mysteriously having a courtyard to liberate people and books. The wind finds home here, leaving the traces of its presence. I let the book take me to a new world and I slowly sink into the night as I turn the page.
This space was made to allow people to read and leave their feelings in a form of writing afterwards. It encourages people to gather, to read a book alone or together and discuss as they put the book down. Bedroom and dining room is facing each other in “ㄷ” shape, allowing people to see each other wherever they are. When you look out at the small courtyard and layered windows, contrast feels quite dramatic, giving relaxation to your eyes as the narrow sight from the book widens out to the landscape. In every corner of the place, you can also find subtle suggestions on how to read a book.
Opening the door of the house, like a book, a birch tree glowing under the eaves will welcome you. On the left side is a kitchen and living room equipped with thoughtful tools. As the hanji lets soft light in, there is a small table by the window facing the courtyard where you can enjoy a relaxing time over a cup of tea. A neat bedroom is situated over the windows and doors.
When you wake up snuggled in cozy bed sheets, the first thing you will see is the soft lights moving differently as the time changes. Stretch your hand and open the window toward the yard, a birch tree in the courtyard and its shadow will greet you at the start of your day.
On the right side of the courtyard is a dining area with a large table where guests can eat, have tea and talk about books. Climbing up the wooden ladder leads to the attic that directly brings in the sunlight and the sound of rain. It also serves as an extra bedroom in the house. Sunshine softly touches your feet and you can fall asleep here while looking up the exposed rafters and a ceiling window. Reading a book on the cozy bed is also a wonderful experience. On the small table, a visitor’s note, bookmark and other writing supplies are prepared so it’s perfect for copying your favorite quotes from a book or capture your thoughts as you hear the scritch scratch sound of the pencil on paper.
The space of the courtyard where the light shatters under the sky, which seems fully permitted only to us, makes the night more special. The porch draws no boundary between inside and outside, embracing the change of nature and time. You can sit here and dip your feet in the bath, which will melt away all the stress in your body and mind. This is where you can fulfill your desire to get closer to nature and the energy of earth. Seochon’s small hanok will be the haven to get away from the hectic world where you only need to focus on the world that a book unfolds.
This space was made to allow people to read and leave their feelings in a form of writing afterwards. It encourages people to gather, to read a book alone or together and discuss as they put the book down. Bedroom and dining room is facing each other in “ㄷ” shape, allowing people to see each other wherever they are. When you look out at the small courtyard and layered windows, contrast feels quite dramatic, giving relaxation to your eyes as the narrow sight from the book widens out to the landscape. In every corner of the place, you can also find subtle suggestions on how to read a book.
Opening the door of the house, like a book, a birch tree glowing under the eaves will welcome you. On the left side is a kitchen and living room equipped with thoughtful tools. As the hanji lets soft light in, there is a small table by the window facing the courtyard where you can enjoy a relaxing time over a cup of tea. A neat bedroom is situated over the windows and doors.
When you wake up snuggled in cozy bed sheets, the first thing you will see is the soft lights moving differently as the time changes. Stretch your hand and open the window toward the yard, a birch tree in the courtyard and its shadow will greet you at the start of your day.
On the right side of the courtyard is a dining area with a large table where guests can eat, have tea and talk about books. Climbing up the wooden ladder leads to the attic that directly brings in the sunlight and the sound of rain. It also serves as an extra bedroom in the house. Sunshine softly touches your feet and you can fall asleep here while looking up the exposed rafters and a ceiling window. Reading a book on the cozy bed is also a wonderful experience. On the small table, a visitor’s note, bookmark and other writing supplies are prepared so it’s perfect for copying your favorite quotes from a book or capture your thoughts as you hear the scritch scratch sound of the pencil on paper.
The space of the courtyard where the light shatters under the sky, which seems fully permitted only to us, makes the night more special. The porch draws no boundary between inside and outside, embracing the change of nature and time. You can sit here and dip your feet in the bath, which will melt away all the stress in your body and mind. This is where you can fulfill your desire to get closer to nature and the energy of earth. Seochon’s small hanok will be the haven to get away from the hectic world where you only need to focus on the world that a book unfolds.
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INTERVIEW
Interview with Z_Lab
stayfolio
of.onebookstay
What led you to of.onebookstay project? I wonder how you discovered a small hanok in Nuha-dong, and approached it as a stay space.
[Park Jung-hyun] The project began as the owner couple wanted Stayfolio to take care of the house. They bought a small tattered hanok, fixed it up and maintained it beautifully. We met them as a client when our office just moved to Seochon Garage, but we coincidentally and luckily met them again when one of our acquaintances connected us. They wanted to preserve the value of the traditional house as part of Seochon so they rented it out to other people as they moved out. And that’s when they worked on the project’s planning, design and branding process with Stayfolio. Back then, we were working on Of-onebook, the bookstore, so it was a perfect timing. We always thought it would be wonderful to create a place where people can fully enjoy books, or rest while reading. So our vision has come true as we met people who unconditionally loved Seochon and wanted to support the local culture.
I’m wondering how you felt when you first saw the house. If there was anything different about this place compared to other traditional houses, what was it?
[Kim Na-hyung] It was a uniquely designed hanok with multi-floors and a ceiling window, which is hard to find in Seochon. In a neat “ㄷ” shaped house, it was also impressive to see the old vines guarding the entrance at the end of the small and narrow alley. Above all, the owner couple put a lot of care into it. Since they lived here for over 4 years, the house showed the couple’s taste and lifestyle. That unique way of living their life was deeply embedded in the space. For example, they punched the hole under the door so their cat could get in and out. Small things like this were telling us how much they loved and cared about their space and life.
Above all else, however, wherever we looked in the house, there were always books. The wall surrounding the attic was literally filled with books. That’s how many they were. It seemed like those books were part of their life, deeply connected to them. Fascinated by the space surrounded by the books and the books themselves as an object, we organically came up with our concept around a “book.” In other words, of.onebookstay’s project was about expressing the feelings and impressions we had when we first saw the house.
Above all else, however, wherever we looked in the house, there were always books. The wall surrounding the attic was literally filled with books. That’s how many they were. It seemed like those books were part of their life, deeply connected to them. Fascinated by the space surrounded by the books and the books themselves as an object, we organically came up with our concept around a “book.” In other words, of.onebookstay’s project was about expressing the feelings and impressions we had when we first saw the house.
What was the most important value you implemented in making this place? I’m curious to know the process that led to the concept of the house inspired by “Sagadokseo.”
[Kim Na-hyung] After I saw the hanok where of.onebookstay is currently nested, I started to think about why people read books and what meaning books offers to people. I realized that when I read someone’s book or writing, especially when I’m under stress or exhausted, I feel like they are there for me, and I find genuine consolation. By someone I haven’t even seen once. Simply being submerged in myself while reading softly touches my heart and heals my soul. This way, you get inspiration to resume your life.
So we approached from the concepts of books and Seochon’s personality, which brought us to Sagadokseo, a paid vacation policy in Joseon Dynasty. King Sejong initiated this system where scholars of Jiphyunjeon (The Hall of Worthies) dedicated their time to reading during their vacation so they can be physically and mentally rejuvenated. King Sejong was born and raised in Seochon, and on top of that, we thought it would be great to promote wisdom of our ancestors who let the books heal them and recoup the energy to continue their life.
So we approached from the concepts of books and Seochon’s personality, which brought us to Sagadokseo, a paid vacation policy in Joseon Dynasty. King Sejong initiated this system where scholars of Jiphyunjeon (The Hall of Worthies) dedicated their time to reading during their vacation so they can be physically and mentally rejuvenated. King Sejong was born and raised in Seochon, and on top of that, we thought it would be great to promote wisdom of our ancestors who let the books heal them and recoup the energy to continue their life.
We’re living in a time where the power of conventional media dwindles as technology has replaced its role. Where do you think the sentiment of the physical copies of books meet the stay? What is the modern meaning and value of “dedicating time to reading a book,” during the stay?
It’s often considered that the physical books have lost their appeal recently, but I think books are still irreplaceable in that it provides the platform for people to exchange their emotions in forms of writing. I also thought there must be needs for a place to read a book. Voluntary isolation and immersion in one’s own place is encouraged in this space where people can have uninterrupted time for reading. I think this actually creates some chemical reactions in ourselves. If we read a book where the tone and manners of the space is consistent, we’ll experience inspiration and interaction on another level. For modern people who are always hooked to the hyper-connected internet since smartphones were introduced, there is no gift more valuable than contemplating activities like walking or reading, which plays a role give us pause in our lives. Away from the digital environment, feeling the texture of paper books, enjoying contemplation, reading is closely intertwined with the spirit of Sagadokseoje. As much as a long vacation, staying at an extraordinary place while reading a book carefully curated by one’s unique taste will revivify the day and inspire those who visit.
How did you name the place “of.onebookstay”
Honestly, we didn’t name the place ourselves. Book by Book, a small bookstore in Sangam-dong, once had of.onebook where guests could enjoy a book all day. I remembered the place by its interesting sounding name as well as the review that people who love the bookstore had left. Sadly, both Book by Book and of.onebook are not there anymore in Sangam-dong. Another small bookstore Gagarin was closed down and it made me extremely sad seeing the downfall of bookstores. So I thought of a bookstore along with a hotel, which can breathe a new life into Seochon. As we talked to the owner of the house about of.onebookstay in Sangam-dong, we were able to easily narrow the concept down to the book-therapy stay. We asked Kim Jin-yang and Jin-ah, the owners of Book by Book, for permission to use the name. After all, creating this place meant a lot to all of us.
Is there any approach or direction that Z_Lab has taken to create a stay for reading? What is it that you cared about the most?
[Kim Na-hyung] First of all, I wanted to let people comfortably read books, so they’re naturally encouraged to grab a book as they slow down the pace of their mind and find peace. We thought the essential role of a book stay is to create an encouraging environment rather than overwhelming people with choices and forcing them to read. We initially had an idea to fill the second floor’s attic with books, so it’s more dynamic. But we ended up making it empty to meet our ultimate goal. I think less actually offers more, turning the place into a simple place with empty space that is perfect for reading.
[Kim Gi-su] It’s true that there are a lot of book-stay themed places. And of.onebookstay definitely has fewer books than those places. But I think that’s what separates of.onebookstay from others because it means that books are more carefully curated. They are the result of discussion between Z_Lab’s designers and Of-onebook’s staff members. We thought about the taste of our target customers—what they would like to read or like to enjoy in general. we placed the books depending on what each space is for. For example, we put a photo book beside the night stand that can be casually read, a cooking book in a kitchen, and a book that requires some deep thinking in the dining area where a large table is. We thought some people would like to enjoy a comfortable environment with drinks. As a result, we collaborated with Bar Cham and created Jueumyadok to create a welcome drink. This way, we could reflect the local’s experience in the stay and make a lot of entertainment that pair well with reading.
[Kim Gi-su] It’s true that there are a lot of book-stay themed places. And of.onebookstay definitely has fewer books than those places. But I think that’s what separates of.onebookstay from others because it means that books are more carefully curated. They are the result of discussion between Z_Lab’s designers and Of-onebook’s staff members. We thought about the taste of our target customers—what they would like to read or like to enjoy in general. we placed the books depending on what each space is for. For example, we put a photo book beside the night stand that can be casually read, a cooking book in a kitchen, and a book that requires some deep thinking in the dining area where a large table is. We thought some people would like to enjoy a comfortable environment with drinks. As a result, we collaborated with Bar Cham and created Jueumyadok to create a welcome drink. This way, we could reflect the local’s experience in the stay and make a lot of entertainment that pair well with reading.
Of.onebookstay masterfully orchestrates hanok with book-centered content and space branding. Can you tell me the processes and efforts that went into creating branding experience and value in the space?
[Park Jung-hyun] The idea that we wrestled the most with was what environment and what way we can create an encouraging environment for people to enjoy. I can put it in two parts: our first job was to create and manage the space and environment that inspires people to read. The second was to subtly suggest in every corner of the house how to read a book as well as utilize things related to books. Making it work in terms of space experience, in other words, branding work, was critical. As to how to approach a book, we tried to provide an environment where people can not only simply read a book, but copy their favorite quotes from the book or even have a writing experience here even if it’s not relevant to reading. And that determined where each piece of furniture and space was placed. The project was about approaching books from a rather creative angle, so our brand designer Gi-su’s role was quite significant.
Other than copying the quotes, one of his ideas was to naturally arouse curiosity on the book by placing quotes that so called “book introducer” has written for other people. It’s basically like a book connecting people. He also designed the writing materials himself. Other than that, red pines that were used in the house before gave a chaotic feeling, so he fixed it by creating a consistent style. For that reason, I personally feel the power of content and design in this project. When I was working on other hanok projects in Seochon, I faced invisible challenges. But this project taught me that solid contents of the house can improve the identity and style as well as the branding value of the house without additional efforts.
[Kim Gi-su] I was certain that there are people who want to write what’s left within them after reading. That’s how I came up with the idea of a book introducer, bookmark, and a visitor’s note. For this project, I took extra care in binding the notebook, material and quality of the paper. Saddle stitching is common, but I didn’t want to apply it in one.bookstay because I wanted people to keep the nice feeling of softly turning the pages of the book even from the notebook. It seems minor, but I thought it was important to have smooth feeling when turning the page without pages immediately being folded. The color or quality of the paper is extended to their space experience at one.bookstay. So I wanted to keep it consistent. Frankly, our intention like this is sometimes not carried to the customers, but one.bookstay is different. A lot of customers left their positive experience on the visitor’s note. I heard that the notebooks we prepared already ran out and needed to be reordered, so I’m very grateful and relieved.
Other than copying the quotes, one of his ideas was to naturally arouse curiosity on the book by placing quotes that so called “book introducer” has written for other people. It’s basically like a book connecting people. He also designed the writing materials himself. Other than that, red pines that were used in the house before gave a chaotic feeling, so he fixed it by creating a consistent style. For that reason, I personally feel the power of content and design in this project. When I was working on other hanok projects in Seochon, I faced invisible challenges. But this project taught me that solid contents of the house can improve the identity and style as well as the branding value of the house without additional efforts.
[Kim Gi-su] I was certain that there are people who want to write what’s left within them after reading. That’s how I came up with the idea of a book introducer, bookmark, and a visitor’s note. For this project, I took extra care in binding the notebook, material and quality of the paper. Saddle stitching is common, but I didn’t want to apply it in one.bookstay because I wanted people to keep the nice feeling of softly turning the pages of the book even from the notebook. It seems minor, but I thought it was important to have smooth feeling when turning the page without pages immediately being folded. The color or quality of the paper is extended to their space experience at one.bookstay. So I wanted to keep it consistent. Frankly, our intention like this is sometimes not carried to the customers, but one.bookstay is different. A lot of customers left their positive experience on the visitor’s note. I heard that the notebooks we prepared already ran out and needed to be reordered, so I’m very grateful and relieved.
Is there any detailed work or architectural scenes that shouldn’t be missed out in the house? Or any spot that you are personally attached to?
[Kim Na-hyung] Since it’s a “ㄷ” shaped hanok, when opening the windows to the yard, all the windows look layered on each other. This is one scene that you can capture and gaze at wherever you choose to read a book. You can delve into the beauty of the ratio of the door that showcases the overlapped landscapes and grids on the windows. When I was here by myself to get measurements, I could hear children chatting and laughing along with chirping birds. I thought, this might be the experience that only Seochon’s hanok and narrow alley can provide, which brought the forgotten memory from the childhood. This white noise is better for reading, too.
[Park Jung-hyun] I would say, a garden in the courtyard where a birch tree stands. There used to be a small space for water pipe. We had a lot of discussions on how to dress up the garden as a final touch. At the end, we emptied everything, placed white gravel and planted a birch tree. We remembered that a birch tree’s bark was used as a paper alternative in the past. We measured the size and height of the tree and carefully chose one before we bought it ourselves. I’m more attached to the tree than anything else and I think it really creates the vibe that is perfect for one.bookstay.
[Kim Gi-su] Sleeping in the attic of one.bookstay was quite special. I don’t like high places, so I was reluctant at first but once I lay down, it was really cozy. I would fall asleep, looking up at the rafters and a ceiling window and wake up to the sky the first thing in the morning—it’s an extraordinary experience for sure. I loved listening to the sound of the rain tapping on the window when I was there with my friends. I highly recommend the visitors read a book on a cozy comforter or write down your thoughts on the small table.
[Park Jung-hyun] I would say, a garden in the courtyard where a birch tree stands. There used to be a small space for water pipe. We had a lot of discussions on how to dress up the garden as a final touch. At the end, we emptied everything, placed white gravel and planted a birch tree. We remembered that a birch tree’s bark was used as a paper alternative in the past. We measured the size and height of the tree and carefully chose one before we bought it ourselves. I’m more attached to the tree than anything else and I think it really creates the vibe that is perfect for one.bookstay.
[Kim Gi-su] Sleeping in the attic of one.bookstay was quite special. I don’t like high places, so I was reluctant at first but once I lay down, it was really cozy. I would fall asleep, looking up at the rafters and a ceiling window and wake up to the sky the first thing in the morning—it’s an extraordinary experience for sure. I loved listening to the sound of the rain tapping on the window when I was there with my friends. I highly recommend the visitors read a book on a cozy comforter or write down your thoughts on the small table.
I’d like to know your plan ahead in terms of one.bookstay’s role in relationship with Seochon Yuhee
Of.onebookstay made me realize the invisible power of Seochon and its incomparable appeal. We were able to make our vague ideas more concrete, the “Horizontal Hotel-Seochon Yuhee (meaning art and entertainment).” We are connecting five Z_Stays with hidden local restaurants, cafes and small shops spread like dots, on a horizontal level. And we are developing the concept into Seochon Yuhee, which offers the experience in one organic form. We’re planning on “PH Seochon,” the Seochon Yuhee lounge, a center to connect all the dots. We’d like to collaborate with other creators to provide Seochon’s unique experience and thrive with our neighbors in the local area.
STAY’s recommended
Local Destination
Maker Seochon
It’s a Seochon base community space for creators. This place is equipped with a variety of gear and tools for personal work. They also host a craft class called “one day one work,” from woodwork, leather craft, creating perfume, drawing, etc., as well as special lectures held by famous brands
STAY’s recommended
Local Restaurant
Azzuro
It’s a restaurant and bar offering small dishes and drinks until late. The chef and owner of Gosma in Seochon opened this place under a bistro concept. As its name means shore, Italian foods and wine are available here.
Bar Cham
You can order one.bookstay’s Juemyadok—non-alcoholic drink—off the menu. Seochon’s hanok in alley and whiskey bar’s combination is quite innovative.
STAY’s recommended
Local Shop
Of-onebook
The bookstore introduces a monthly book based on the word of the month. Here, Seochon’s scene is captured, showing the place’s perfect vibe that holds your eyes. It’s a concierge for those who stay at Z_Stay and an information center for those who explore the alleys of Seochon.
Seochon Dogam
A shop that features Seochon’s sustainable lifestyle. Seochon base craftsman and artists with sustainable and environmentally friendly ideas exhibit and sell their work.
STAY’s recommended
Local Cafe
Daechung Park
This coffeeshop offers a panoramic view of Seochon and its signature hand drip coffee and tea. Every corner of the place has a reserved sophistication.
STAY
Time to Return to a Book, to Myself
There are times in life, when nothing seems to fill the emptiness of the day, we need books. Holding a book in my hands, I try to understand the meaning of every sentence. When I push through, broken parts of me are amended, giving me peace. Though digital reading has become more popular and video has become media’s main platform, slowly reading a book and taking a deep breath gently strokes my broken heart and brings me the life back. What sharpens and grows my thoughts is words from a book that I ingrained in myself, as I was dedicating my time and mind while sitting at one place for a long time. As the book Words of Reading says, reading a book is like reading myself and building a life. It’s a physical work, however, meaning I needed a place to enter the world that a book invites me into.
Anxious for the reading space, of.onebookstay’s opening was like a welcome rain. On top of that, it’s in Seochon, leaving me little reason not to visit. Combination of Seochon and a book was perfectly convincing to me. Even if I wasn’t born and raised in Seochon, it has that familiarity that is connected to some parts of my life and therefore in alignment with my life. It’s a place where I could feel the dynamic sensation depending on what companion I have, or what time or season I visit, which is only allowed in Seochon. Of.onebookstay is located in that Seochon’s alley, deeply nestled. To get there, as I was passing by indifferently placed desks, chairs and plant pots, I felt the cozy and homey vibe of Seochon. The simple and cozy “ㄷ” shaped hanok was embracing a mysterious courtyard with a birch tree. Under the ceiling window where I could feel the solid texture of the wood and see the eaves of the house, traditional windows and lattice pattern in harmony with the roof line of the eaves were so beautiful.
It was not a large space, but there is a definite boundary between rooms, smoothly connecting them. Above all, it is a place where those who are not a fan of books or unfamiliar with books can even come close to them. Usually a heavy presence of books in a bookshelf is typically the image that people come up with when it comes to a book stay, but of.onebookstay features books carefully curated by Of-onebook, so it provokes curiosity on each book that is provided. Strangely, wherever I choose to sit and read, there is always a book within my reach. It makes me want to read a book, and it’s quite fun learning about the book, as well.
Detailed touches are seen everywhere from lighting and temperature to music and furniture. I could also see and talk to my partner with a book between us. I heard the art of reading is to pause from reading and ceaselessly gazing into one spot or mentally walking between myself and a book. Just like that, of.onebookstay allows me to peacefully stay “in-between.” I notice the changing time as I trace the sprinkles of lights and shadows. I can feel the texture of the paper book. The time of isolation and immersion at of.onebookstay enables me to save the book from “the world of the undone,” and to look into myself, if I borrow the phrase from the book Document and Resource Sharing: The Book Penetrating My Life.
Anxious for the reading space, of.onebookstay’s opening was like a welcome rain. On top of that, it’s in Seochon, leaving me little reason not to visit. Combination of Seochon and a book was perfectly convincing to me. Even if I wasn’t born and raised in Seochon, it has that familiarity that is connected to some parts of my life and therefore in alignment with my life. It’s a place where I could feel the dynamic sensation depending on what companion I have, or what time or season I visit, which is only allowed in Seochon. Of.onebookstay is located in that Seochon’s alley, deeply nestled. To get there, as I was passing by indifferently placed desks, chairs and plant pots, I felt the cozy and homey vibe of Seochon. The simple and cozy “ㄷ” shaped hanok was embracing a mysterious courtyard with a birch tree. Under the ceiling window where I could feel the solid texture of the wood and see the eaves of the house, traditional windows and lattice pattern in harmony with the roof line of the eaves were so beautiful.
It was not a large space, but there is a definite boundary between rooms, smoothly connecting them. Above all, it is a place where those who are not a fan of books or unfamiliar with books can even come close to them. Usually a heavy presence of books in a bookshelf is typically the image that people come up with when it comes to a book stay, but of.onebookstay features books carefully curated by Of-onebook, so it provokes curiosity on each book that is provided. Strangely, wherever I choose to sit and read, there is always a book within my reach. It makes me want to read a book, and it’s quite fun learning about the book, as well.
Detailed touches are seen everywhere from lighting and temperature to music and furniture. I could also see and talk to my partner with a book between us. I heard the art of reading is to pause from reading and ceaselessly gazing into one spot or mentally walking between myself and a book. Just like that, of.onebookstay allows me to peacefully stay “in-between.” I notice the changing time as I trace the sprinkles of lights and shadows. I can feel the texture of the paper book. The time of isolation and immersion at of.onebookstay enables me to save the book from “the world of the undone,” and to look into myself, if I borrow the phrase from the book Document and Resource Sharing: The Book Penetrating My Life.
4 POINT OF VIEW
ORIGINALITY
Meditative Stay of Reading a Book Resets the Life
Reading a physical book has become more about getting over temptation imposed by the digital environment that is always connected regardless of time or place, especially since the smartphone was introduced. Getting away from the stimulating environment that distracts us, taking the time to read gives us a rest to the relentless race of life. Though there are many new ways to read books such as an e-book, the sentiment and consolation that physical books offer transcends any digital reading. Stayfolio and Z_Lab’s of.onebookstay suggests a way to rest in a day as a book sings a lullaby to slow down the pace of your long day. I let the world the book unfolds take care of myself, and sink into my own time as I turn the page and restructure my life.
DESIGN
Serene Hanok in Seochon, Embraced in Books
Of.onebookstay is a single family hanok in “ㄷ” shape, nested in the Seochon’s alley that looks like a maze. Its unique and simple style is perfect for staying by yourself or with your loved ones. A diverse book-related space experience is featured here. I can soak my feet in the bath and take my time to read a book, or I can hear the sound of the pencil on paper, giving form to my thoughts. The courtyard with a patch of nature presents the perfect isolation. When I open all the wooden windows, I see my companion, and wherever my eyes choose to rest over the overlapped door and window frames, is splendid. It is the beauty that can only be experienced at of.onebookstay.
Hospitality
People who Unconventionally Interpreted Seochon’s Locality with a Book
People who love and care about Seochon, and therefore who want to preserve Seochon’s culture for as long as possible have created this space. Stayfolio and Z_Lab took care of the traditional house where books were part of the owner couple’s life. While keeping the old structure of the house to preserve the tradition and keep the value of the house, they managed to breathe in a special and new experience into the house. Sagadokseoje carries the theme of the stay, engraved in the old story of Seochon. The space experience to deeply delve into a book continues the slowness of Seochon’s sentiment.
PRICE
Travel in the City, New Alternative
I recently see a lot of changes in landscape. When you want to revitalize your day, a hanok stay in the city is a great alternative for traveling to a distant vacation place. Of.onebookstay completes a stroll between Seochon’s alleys and staying between the books and blankness. Even if we don’t have to travel far away, books take us out of the world we live in and make us feel like we’re traveling. Ultimately, it presents us the mental encouragement that we need in life.
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- Stay Name
- of.onebookstay
- Stay Type
- Hanok
- Contact information
- Address
- 11-1, Pirundae-ro 3-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Guests / No. of Room
- 4~4 / 1
- Price
- US$ 229.17 ~ US$ 267.36
- Check-in / out
- 18:00 / 14:00
- Feature
- Kitchenette
PHOTO BY PARK KIHUN(@arc_factory) | arcfactory.net