STAY1METER
why
The Courage to Remove Existence and Its Beauty
At times, non-existence can be more difficult to achieve than existence itself. To erase one's presence, to lead a modest and unassuming life focused on caring for one's surroundings rather than oneself, and to adapt to nature without a greedy desire for what is not possessed - these are the ideals embodied by STAY1METER. This space is completed by humbly accepting the natural flow of the land that surrounds it, relinquishing its own presence and allowing nature to flourish instead.
The attitude of this space is a unique one. The designer chose to blend in with the vast fields, becoming a mere accessory to the surrounding environment. The building's low, elongated appearance seems to have naturally settled into the ground, and the silver grass field further camouflages the structure. The use of materials resembling the color and texture of Jeju further enhances the building's assimilation with the environment.
Notably, the large window at the front of the building serves to project the stunning view of the western sea facing Chagwido Island and the verdant fields beyond, allowing the building to become one with nature. Those who stay within the space are also hidden from view, enveloped within the embrace of nature and surrounded by scenery that fosters a sense of unity with the environment. The floor, raised one meter from the ground, provides a sense of freedom from the surrounding gaze.
In a world of excess, STAY1METER stands out as a space that looks towards the distant island with humility, unburdened by greed. It tells the story of a place that is one meter away from everyday life, yet simultaneously one meter closer to the true nature of Jeju.
The attitude of this space is a unique one. The designer chose to blend in with the vast fields, becoming a mere accessory to the surrounding environment. The building's low, elongated appearance seems to have naturally settled into the ground, and the silver grass field further camouflages the structure. The use of materials resembling the color and texture of Jeju further enhances the building's assimilation with the environment.
Notably, the large window at the front of the building serves to project the stunning view of the western sea facing Chagwido Island and the verdant fields beyond, allowing the building to become one with nature. Those who stay within the space are also hidden from view, enveloped within the embrace of nature and surrounded by scenery that fosters a sense of unity with the environment. The floor, raised one meter from the ground, provides a sense of freedom from the surrounding gaze.
In a world of excess, STAY1METER stands out as a space that looks towards the distant island with humility, unburdened by greed. It tells the story of a place that is one meter away from everyday life, yet simultaneously one meter closer to the true nature of Jeju.
people
Architectural Maneuvers that Establish Links Between Space and Region, Life and Culture
Z_Lab, the design firm responsible for creating STAY1METER, is a group that specializes in crafting spaces that incorporate individual identities and stories. Their aim is to establish a balance between the universal trends of the time and regional identity, thereby creating new experiences of space that connect life and culture. Director Kang Hae-cheon, who currently heads the spatial design division at Z_Lab, joined the studio for the first time with STAY1METER, making the project all the more significant.
Z_Lab's unique architectural perspectives, which prioritize the region and nature, coupled with their focus on identifying user needs and creating new stay cultures, are all evident in the design of STAY1METER. The clients who commissioned the project were a couple with children, which led to the proposal of family guests as the primary users. However, the space has been designed to cater to a wider range of visitors, including trips with parents or friends, couples, or children.
To balance the space, two bedrooms and bathrooms are positioned on opposite sides, while shared spaces like outdoor kitchens and swimming pools provide a range of experiences. The public spaces, such as living rooms, kitchens, and bathrooms, have been strategically placed to facilitate external activities, creating an enjoyable family trip experience.
Z_Lab's unique architectural perspectives, which prioritize the region and nature, coupled with their focus on identifying user needs and creating new stay cultures, are all evident in the design of STAY1METER. The clients who commissioned the project were a couple with children, which led to the proposal of family guests as the primary users. However, the space has been designed to cater to a wider range of visitors, including trips with parents or friends, couples, or children.
To balance the space, two bedrooms and bathrooms are positioned on opposite sides, while shared spaces like outdoor kitchens and swimming pools provide a range of experiences. The public spaces, such as living rooms, kitchens, and bathrooms, have been strategically placed to facilitate external activities, creating an enjoyable family trip experience.
location
Looking Out Towards the Gentlest Sea in Jeju
STAY1METER was established in the western seaside village of Jeju, facing Chagwido Island and Wado Island. Director Kang Hae-cheon was deeply impressed by the two islands that appeared like dolphins from a distance during his initial visit to the location. On that day, the weather was clear and he was able to capture the moment when the sun shone softly above him, even with Chagwido Island and Wado Island in the background. Among the various landscapes in Jeju Island, this mysterious and breathtaking view was unforgettable, featuring the mildest sea he had ever seen.
Moreover, Hankyung-myeon, where STAY1METER is situated, is a village where wind turbines line the beach along the coastal road, creating a unique atmosphere. Being located on the western tip of Jeju Island, it is an ideal place to watch the sunset disappear beyond the sea. The vicinity of the site consists mainly of barley fields, with no tall buildings or trees nearby, and provides an open view on all sides - a rare sight in Jeju. On clear days, the western sea surrounding Chagwido Island and Wado Island and Hallasan Mountain, standing humbly to the east, are visible. Director Kang Hae-cheon aimed to preserve the existing natural beauty by integrating unique spatial characteristics into the design. As a result, the structure is private yet seamlessly integrates with the landscape, creating a sense of connection between the inside and outside, while also offering proper screening from the surroundings.
Moreover, Hankyung-myeon, where STAY1METER is situated, is a village where wind turbines line the beach along the coastal road, creating a unique atmosphere. Being located on the western tip of Jeju Island, it is an ideal place to watch the sunset disappear beyond the sea. The vicinity of the site consists mainly of barley fields, with no tall buildings or trees nearby, and provides an open view on all sides - a rare sight in Jeju. On clear days, the western sea surrounding Chagwido Island and Wado Island and Hallasan Mountain, standing humbly to the east, are visible. Director Kang Hae-cheon aimed to preserve the existing natural beauty by integrating unique spatial characteristics into the design. As a result, the structure is private yet seamlessly integrates with the landscape, creating a sense of connection between the inside and outside, while also offering proper screening from the surroundings.
MAKING STORY
In order to preserve the local characteristics and existing natural elements, the primary task in designing the STAY1METER was to create an organic flow within the space. Traditionally, when building a house on an open flatland, a fence is often used to block the surrounding view, and the building is raised to the second floor to enjoy the scenery. However, to harmonize with the landscape, the decision was made to construct a low and long building that would sink lower than usual while still facing the sea.
This design approach was reinforced by the use of panoramic windows that capture the surrounding scenery, which helps to connect the outside elements such as the yard, barbecue deck, and swimming pool more closely with the inside. The wide window at the front of the building also creates a natural sense of connection with the surrounding landscape, and as the sunset gets darker, the building and the site become more densely connected.
However, there was a significant issue regarding the need to balance the desire for a structure that provides views of the surrounding landscape with the need for privacy. This was addressed through the use of a height difference between the ground and space, which was achieved by lifting the building by 1m. Additionally, a 1.5m-long silver grass was planted in the front yard of the building with the panoramic window to create a more private atmosphere, eliminating the need for a high fence. Ultimately, this allowed for the creation of a space where guests could enjoy the outdoors in complete privacy.
This design approach was reinforced by the use of panoramic windows that capture the surrounding scenery, which helps to connect the outside elements such as the yard, barbecue deck, and swimming pool more closely with the inside. The wide window at the front of the building also creates a natural sense of connection with the surrounding landscape, and as the sunset gets darker, the building and the site become more densely connected.
However, there was a significant issue regarding the need to balance the desire for a structure that provides views of the surrounding landscape with the need for privacy. This was addressed through the use of a height difference between the ground and space, which was achieved by lifting the building by 1m. Additionally, a 1.5m-long silver grass was planted in the front yard of the building with the panoramic window to create a more private atmosphere, eliminating the need for a high fence. Ultimately, this allowed for the creation of a space where guests could enjoy the outdoors in complete privacy.
SPACE
Starting Your Travel from STAY1METER
As you approach STAY1METER in the middle of a vast field, a new journey through Jeju begins by following the carefully crafted path for guests. After passing through the parking lot, the road leads you to naturally loop around the building, where you're greeted by skyy plants such as silver grass, sokrung, and furry grass. As you enter through the wooden door at the back of the building, an open view of the field and sea will instantly catch your eye, and you'll be compelled to pause for a moment.
The living room, kitchen, and dining area are interconnected in one flowing space, arranged to match the height of each furniture element in the room to ensure the best view possible. The kitchen offers a view of the sea when you stand, while the living room, built two or three steps below, offers a breathtaking visual of the swimming pool connecting with the water surface of the sea. There are bedrooms and bathrooms on both ends of the space, allowing for private use by a group.
The northern bedroom has a bathroom at the front and an open-air bath on a semicircular terrace. Relaxing in the open-air bath, you'll feel the cool sea breeze through the branches and leaves of the hackberry tree. The southern bedroom is on the opposite side and features windows on all three sides and terraces, providing a panoramic view of the fields, oreums, and Hallasan Mountain. The bathroom next to this bedroom conveniently connects directly to the swimming pool for a quick rinse.
As the surrounding landscape is beautiful, external space elements that allow guests to enjoy nature comfortably are strategically placed. The yard boasts a long swimming pool that faces Chagwido Island and Wado Island, with an outdoor kitchen and table for barbecuing. A vast silver grass field surrounds this area, creating a romantic atmosphere, and guests can take a leisurely stroll along a small promenade between the silver grass fields while taking in the breathtaking scenery where space and nature meet. If you climb the circular stairs behind the building, you'll find a secret rooftop that offers the highest view of the sea and mountains, surrounded by flat land.
The living room, kitchen, and dining area are interconnected in one flowing space, arranged to match the height of each furniture element in the room to ensure the best view possible. The kitchen offers a view of the sea when you stand, while the living room, built two or three steps below, offers a breathtaking visual of the swimming pool connecting with the water surface of the sea. There are bedrooms and bathrooms on both ends of the space, allowing for private use by a group.
The northern bedroom has a bathroom at the front and an open-air bath on a semicircular terrace. Relaxing in the open-air bath, you'll feel the cool sea breeze through the branches and leaves of the hackberry tree. The southern bedroom is on the opposite side and features windows on all three sides and terraces, providing a panoramic view of the fields, oreums, and Hallasan Mountain. The bathroom next to this bedroom conveniently connects directly to the swimming pool for a quick rinse.
As the surrounding landscape is beautiful, external space elements that allow guests to enjoy nature comfortably are strategically placed. The yard boasts a long swimming pool that faces Chagwido Island and Wado Island, with an outdoor kitchen and table for barbecuing. A vast silver grass field surrounds this area, creating a romantic atmosphere, and guests can take a leisurely stroll along a small promenade between the silver grass fields while taking in the breathtaking scenery where space and nature meet. If you climb the circular stairs behind the building, you'll find a secret rooftop that offers the highest view of the sea and mountains, surrounded by flat land.
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INTERVIEW
Interview with Z_Lab Hae-cheon Kang
stayfolio
STAY1METER
The name "STAY1METER" is striking, but what does it signify?
The concept of "1 meter" in STAY1METER refers to an architectural approach to the physical environment, where the building is lifted one meter off the ground. As a brand, it has been used as a metaphor to represent the distance from daily life that one can experience during travel.
What are the architectural solutions that have been implemented for the site?
The site's flat surroundings posed a challenge for the architects, who could have opted for a two-story building with a high fence for privacy. However, they decided that a low-lying building would better blend in with the natural scenery. While a second story would provide better views of the sea, it would also create pressure to make the building larger. Moreover, the flat terrain meant that the interior could be easily seen from outside, creating a conflict between privacy and landscape. To solve this issue, the architects raised the building slightly, preventing a view from the road into the house while preserving the landscape. They also planted silver grass in the yard to enhance privacy.
Is there a specific reason for the design and appearance of the oval single-story building, which resembles a sailing ship?
In fact, the circular shape at the end of the building was incorporated to enhance the flow and functionality of the structure. By redirecting the movement to the back of the building, we were able to create a more dramatic view while also providing a smooth transition that connected the panoramic views from the bedrooms on both ends of the building. When I designed it, the circular form reminded me of a ship, which I felt could serve as a metaphor for the town where Father Kim Dae-gun first landed. During the autumn months, when silver grass blooms in the yard, it gives the illusion of a boat floating on a silver sea that spills over from the building.
What was the primary material utilized in the space?
The exterior of the building was mainly constructed using basalt and black concrete. However, in order to ensure that the glass on the elevation reflected the surrounding scenery, I believed that the base should continue to use the material of the basalt stone wall present in the surrounding field. To accomplish this, rough stones were utilized for the bottom and outer floors of the building. To maintain a balance between the horizontal flying roofline and the material, I opted for black concrete instead of a material that would be too overpowering.
Were there any notable anecdotes during the construction process?
Upon completion of the building, I noticed that there was something missing in its overall ambiance. Being open on all sides, I felt that it might not feel as welcoming for those who were not used to staying in unfamiliar places. To alleviate this, I decided to plant trees around the building. I believed that the leaves of the trees, which would be visible from the bedrooms and open-air bath, would create a sense of stability. After searching the farm for the right size and shape that wouldn't interfere with the building's structure, I finally found a suitable hackberry tree and planted it at the end of the building. The placement of the tree created a visual balance that contrasted with the horizontal shape of the building.
What, in your opinion, is a unique experiential aspect that can only be enjoyed during a stay at STAY1METER?
There are several special experiences that guests can savor during their stay at the STAY1METER. For instance, they can delight in playing in the water while soaking up the picturesque sunset over the sea. A relaxing dinner amidst the serene silver grass field is also a memorable experience that guests can relish. Additionally, guests can unwind under a starry sky while enjoying a soothing open-air bath. Lastly, gazing at the stunning view of the Hallasan Mountain during the morning hours is sure to be a remarkable experience that guests will cherish.
When is the most optimal time to visit STAY1METER?
The ideal time to experience the beauty of STAY1METER is during autumn when the silver grass is in full bloom, particularly during a sunset evening. Guests can relish the mesmerizing sunset of Chagwido Island, which is visible from the living room sofa at a low eye level. Moreover, the scenic silver grass field, which is a rare sight to behold, adds to the unique experience that STAY1METER has to offer.
What kind of day would you like the guests to experience during their stay?
As the name suggests, STAY1METER is an ideal getaway that offers guests an opportunity to distance themselves from their hectic daily lives and indulge in a peaceful and relaxing day with their loved ones.
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Jeju Dombe Makguksu
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STAY’s recommended
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STAY
Stay Amidst the sea of Chagwido and the land of Halla
Staying in the midst of a field with views of both Chagwido Island and Hallasan Mountain is a unique experience. The serene and stunning beauty of Jeju can be observed in any direction. The house is built with consideration for the land, sea, and people, providing a calming atmosphere that allows one's heart to feel at ease. It's an opportunity to live in a natural and comfortable way, and enjoy every moment to the fullest.
4 POINT OF VIEW
ORIGINALITY
Experience the embrace of the sunset sea enveloping Chagwido and Wado Island.
DESIGN
A space that seamlessly merges with the natural surroundings, embracing the picturesque scenery of the western village.
Hospitality
A place that offers a tranquil respite for you and your loved ones to unwind and enjoy quality time together.
PRICE
Outdoor amenities like kitchens, swimming pools, open-air baths, and scenic trails offer opportunities for solitary enjoyment.
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- Stay Name
- STAY1METER
- Stay Type
- K - Rental house
- Contact information
- Address
- 89-15, Yongsu 1-gil, Hangyeong-myeon, Jeju-si, Jeju-do, Republic of Korea
- Guests / No. of Room
- 4~4 / 1
- Price
- US$ 304.63 ~ US$ 380.78
- Check-in / out
- 16:00 / 11:00
- Feature
- BBQ facilities, Projector or TV, Kitchenette, Swimming pool, Tub (ex. Jacuzzi, Hinoki)
PHOTO BY leebyunggeun | WRITTEN BY Shin Eunji |