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EMBRACE THE JOURNEY
Architecture, become travel
: Studio 2LOOK
: Studio 2LOOK
Apr 7 to Apr 30
Affectionate touches are evident even without an introduction. From loving gazes and gentle touches to thoughtfully designed spaces, Studio 2LOOK’s work is infused with a deep care for both the land and its people. We explored how stories beginning with the land evolve into beautiful architecture, tracing the path of affection they leave behind.
Same goal, different perspective
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Q. What does the name 'Studio 2LOOK' signify?
[Kim Young-feel, Director] The name is often understood as a play on the Korean word '이룩하다,' meaning to achieve or create something. However, it actually combines the Chinese character '異' (different) with the English word 'LOOK,' which means to view or explore. Thus, it conveys the idea of 'looking at things differently.' We hope Studio 2LOOK will be remembered as a place that discovers various perspectives on life, much like the diverse people we work with.
Q. What does the name 'Studio 2LOOK' signify?
[Kim Young-feel, Director] The name is often understood as a play on the Korean word '이룩하다,' meaning to achieve or create something. However, it actually combines the Chinese character '異' (different) with the English word 'LOOK,' which means to view or explore. Thus, it conveys the idea of 'looking at things differently.' We hope Studio 2LOOK will be remembered as a place that discovers various perspectives on life, much like the diverse people we work with.
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Q. Studio 2LOOK works on the design, construction, and branding of the entire space. What is the most important element in such a broad scope of work?
[Kim Young-feel, Director] When undertaking any project, we start with the story of the people who will live there and prioritize connectivity and scalability. The story of the land and its people should resonate with those who experience the space. We believe that good storytelling is the greatest driving force behind providing continuity to the space, extending beyond land, people, and life into the future.
Q. Studio 2LOOK works on the design, construction, and branding of the entire space. What is the most important element in such a broad scope of work?
[Kim Young-feel, Director] When undertaking any project, we start with the story of the people who will live there and prioritize connectivity and scalability. The story of the land and its people should resonate with those who experience the space. We believe that good storytelling is the greatest driving force behind providing continuity to the space, extending beyond land, people, and life into the future.
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Q. How does Studio 2LOOK communicate with clients throughout the completion of a project?
[Yoon Aram, Designer] It can be seen as a process of mutual understanding, where clients also get a chance to understand themselves. The most important aspect of any architecture is that it reflects the user's story and character. During the kickoff meeting, we listen to the client's stories about the land and space, which often becomes a time for them to reflect on their thoughts and life. This process allows us to uncover important stories to include in the project. Communication initiated here continues seamlessly through to the construction phase.
[Kim Young-feel, Director] During the design process, clients come to understand and discover themselves through clear text and images. Through various meetings, mutual understanding and empathy develop, leading to natural decisions during selection. This way, we connect the stories we and the clients want to convey with the world through the space, often without significant communication difficulties.
Q. How does Studio 2LOOK communicate with clients throughout the completion of a project?
[Yoon Aram, Designer] It can be seen as a process of mutual understanding, where clients also get a chance to understand themselves. The most important aspect of any architecture is that it reflects the user's story and character. During the kickoff meeting, we listen to the client's stories about the land and space, which often becomes a time for them to reflect on their thoughts and life. This process allows us to uncover important stories to include in the project. Communication initiated here continues seamlessly through to the construction phase.
[Kim Young-feel, Director] During the design process, clients come to understand and discover themselves through clear text and images. Through various meetings, mutual understanding and empathy develop, leading to natural decisions during selection. This way, we connect the stories we and the clients want to convey with the world through the space, often without significant communication difficulties.
The boundary between the ordinary and the extraordinary, and the uniqueness within
Visitors to a stay often expect both the comfort of home and the unique experiences exclusive to that place. Special spaces aren't limited to stays alone. In this interview, we introduce stays located on the beautiful island of Jeju. What does Studio 2LOOK envision for Jeju and these stays?
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Q. Studio 2LOOK designs various types of buildings, including commercial facilities and private homes. What are the unique characteristics of 'stay' projects?
[Kim Young-feel, Director] The appeal of stay projects lies in their coexistence of characteristics from both 'daily residential spaces' and 'commercial spaces offering unique experiences.' The design process of blurring the boundaries between the everyday and the extraordinary is often the most exciting and enjoyable. Of course, the foundation for crossing these boundaries is always centered around the story of the people operating the space, focusing on effectively conveying their tastes and life direction. We aim to inspire a feeling of 'I want to live like this too.'
Q. Studio 2LOOK designs various types of buildings, including commercial facilities and private homes. What are the unique characteristics of 'stay' projects?
[Kim Young-feel, Director] The appeal of stay projects lies in their coexistence of characteristics from both 'daily residential spaces' and 'commercial spaces offering unique experiences.' The design process of blurring the boundaries between the everyday and the extraordinary is often the most exciting and enjoyable. Of course, the foundation for crossing these boundaries is always centered around the story of the people operating the space, focusing on effectively conveying their tastes and life direction. We aim to inspire a feeling of 'I want to live like this too.'
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Q. The stays featured in this content—gotgot, NUONMI, Daily rental house, and Moheomdam—are all located in Jeju. Are there any distinctive regional characteristics of Jeju?
[Kim Young-feel, Director] Since starting our first project in Sagye-ri, Seogwipo, Jeju in 2010, we’ve worked across various locations and terrains on the island. In 2017, while driving to Pyoseon for an exhibition by a photographer who had shot one of our projects, I was struck by the unfamiliarity of Jeju's landscapes, despite my long familiarity with the island. It made me realize there are still many things to discover. With its strong regional characteristics and diverse ecology, Jeju is a place full of new discoveries, making it an endlessly fascinating and interesting space.
Q. The stays featured in this content—gotgot, NUONMI, Daily rental house, and Moheomdam—are all located in Jeju. Are there any distinctive regional characteristics of Jeju?
[Kim Young-feel, Director] Since starting our first project in Sagye-ri, Seogwipo, Jeju in 2010, we’ve worked across various locations and terrains on the island. In 2017, while driving to Pyoseon for an exhibition by a photographer who had shot one of our projects, I was struck by the unfamiliarity of Jeju's landscapes, despite my long familiarity with the island. It made me realize there are still many things to discover. With its strong regional characteristics and diverse ecology, Jeju is a place full of new discoveries, making it an endlessly fascinating and interesting space.
Living stories told by Studio 2LOOK
With a focus on land and people, the stories hidden within the spaces are boundless. Let's listen to the stories of Gotgot, NUONMI, Daily rental house, and Moheomdam as told by Studio 2LOOK. It seems our perspective on spaces is gradually expanding as well.
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Q. The garden at 'Gotgot', located in Hogene-dong, Seogwipo, feels like a scene from a fairy tale. I'm curious about the story behind the concept of 'things that bloom and quietly sparkle amidst the flow of time'.
[Kim Jin-young, Designer] The land where 'Gotgot' was built was originally an orchard. When I first visited the site, the long-tended orchard and garden didn't present themselves as an ordinary piece of land; they felt like a place with hidden, sparkling elements. Seeing the sunlight filtering through the mandarin trees and pathways, I realized the need to respect the land before starting the design. I wanted the new building and its future hosts and guests to naturally fit into the space and sparkle like the original land. This vision became the concept for the space, as we aimed for 'Gotgot' to be discovered and appreciated for its natural sparkle.
[Kim Young-feel, Director] Besides the mandarin trees, there are many different flowers and trees here, reflecting the touch of a neighbor who cultivated the orchard after marrying into Jeju. She planted and nurtured flowers and trees whenever she felt lonely or bored. The paths she walked for farming naturally became the garden paths. These precious stories were directly incorporated into the design. The flowers and trees became the garden, and the paths became the way to the entrance. We also made efforts during construction to preserve the stone walls and trees.
Q. The garden at 'Gotgot', located in Hogene-dong, Seogwipo, feels like a scene from a fairy tale. I'm curious about the story behind the concept of 'things that bloom and quietly sparkle amidst the flow of time'.
[Kim Jin-young, Designer] The land where 'Gotgot' was built was originally an orchard. When I first visited the site, the long-tended orchard and garden didn't present themselves as an ordinary piece of land; they felt like a place with hidden, sparkling elements. Seeing the sunlight filtering through the mandarin trees and pathways, I realized the need to respect the land before starting the design. I wanted the new building and its future hosts and guests to naturally fit into the space and sparkle like the original land. This vision became the concept for the space, as we aimed for 'Gotgot' to be discovered and appreciated for its natural sparkle.
[Kim Young-feel, Director] Besides the mandarin trees, there are many different flowers and trees here, reflecting the touch of a neighbor who cultivated the orchard after marrying into Jeju. She planted and nurtured flowers and trees whenever she felt lonely or bored. The paths she walked for farming naturally became the garden paths. These precious stories were directly incorporated into the design. The flowers and trees became the garden, and the paths became the way to the entrance. We also made efforts during construction to preserve the stone walls and trees.
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Q. The exterior of 'Gotgot' uses materials like red bricks and glass blocks that blend well with nature. What is Studio 2LOOK's perspective on materials in architecture?
[Kim Jin-young, Designer] The finishes at 'Gotgot' were chosen with the idea that if we build up the roof with bricks made from the land's soil, it would blend well with the existing trees, stone walls, and pathways, making each element stand out naturally. The glass blocks represent the sparkling things that emerge from the land. Using bricks and glass blocks of the same dimensions ensures a seamless and natural flow. This perspective also influenced the scale of the project; we divided the space into several smaller houses to avoid overwhelming the land and trees. Each house maintains its own area like trees, creating a rooted form within the land.
Our approach to materials is similar. While reflecting trendy elements is important, it's crucial to find materials and designs that capture the essence of the land and the stories of the people living there.
Q. The exterior of 'Gotgot' uses materials like red bricks and glass blocks that blend well with nature. What is Studio 2LOOK's perspective on materials in architecture?
[Kim Jin-young, Designer] The finishes at 'Gotgot' were chosen with the idea that if we build up the roof with bricks made from the land's soil, it would blend well with the existing trees, stone walls, and pathways, making each element stand out naturally. The glass blocks represent the sparkling things that emerge from the land. Using bricks and glass blocks of the same dimensions ensures a seamless and natural flow. This perspective also influenced the scale of the project; we divided the space into several smaller houses to avoid overwhelming the land and trees. Each house maintains its own area like trees, creating a rooted form within the land.
Our approach to materials is similar. While reflecting trendy elements is important, it's crucial to find materials and designs that capture the essence of the land and the stories of the people living there.
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Q. ‘NUONMI', located in Jocheon-eup, Jeju City, has a unique site shape. Along with the initial impression of the site, are there any architectural features specific to ‘NUONMI’?
[Kim Young-feel, Director] When we first encountered the site for ‘NUONMI,’ it was a man-made mound with significant elevation. Given this, constructing a tall building there was daunting, so we pondered how to design the building in the most minimal and grounded way possible.
The area where NUONMI is located, Walsan-ri, means ‘lying mountain.’ We depicted this as a stable, low-lying mountain with a triangular, stable roof shape that connects seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. The process of constructing this building on the site was a journey for us to find our unique solution. We hope that those who stay here will also find a stable balance and have the opportunity to build their own stories.
Q. ‘NUONMI', located in Jocheon-eup, Jeju City, has a unique site shape. Along with the initial impression of the site, are there any architectural features specific to ‘NUONMI’?
[Kim Young-feel, Director] When we first encountered the site for ‘NUONMI,’ it was a man-made mound with significant elevation. Given this, constructing a tall building there was daunting, so we pondered how to design the building in the most minimal and grounded way possible.
The area where NUONMI is located, Walsan-ri, means ‘lying mountain.’ We depicted this as a stable, low-lying mountain with a triangular, stable roof shape that connects seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. The process of constructing this building on the site was a journey for us to find our unique solution. We hope that those who stay here will also find a stable balance and have the opportunity to build their own stories.
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Q. The interior of 'NUONMI' features significant variations in height, which create diverse views of the landscape outside. What experience elements would you recommend to guests to fully understand and enjoy the space of 'NUONMI'?
[Kim Young-feel, Director] The host of 'NUONMI' has always dreamed of creating a space where people can share moments of travel. During our discussions, the host showed us how to use a ladder to climb a bit higher and view the sea, and how different positions offer changing landscapes. This personal affection from the host is embodied in the concept of 'my own perspective.'
The interior's ramps and varying heights connect seamlessly with the outdoors. Experiences such as looking out at the distant sea from the lounge stairs, viewing the landscape from the indoor bathtub and study, and appreciating the continuity of the land through landscaping—each offers a unique perspective and becomes a personal scene for guests.
Q. The interior of 'NUONMI' features significant variations in height, which create diverse views of the landscape outside. What experience elements would you recommend to guests to fully understand and enjoy the space of 'NUONMI'?
[Kim Young-feel, Director] The host of 'NUONMI' has always dreamed of creating a space where people can share moments of travel. During our discussions, the host showed us how to use a ladder to climb a bit higher and view the sea, and how different positions offer changing landscapes. This personal affection from the host is embodied in the concept of 'my own perspective.'
The interior's ramps and varying heights connect seamlessly with the outdoors. Experiences such as looking out at the distant sea from the lounge stairs, viewing the landscape from the indoor bathtub and study, and appreciating the continuity of the land through landscaping—each offers a unique perspective and becomes a personal scene for guests.
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Q. The ‘Daily rental house’ located in Cheongsuri, Jeju-si operates the first floor as a café and the second floor as a stay. Is there anything you considered when designing the different spaces as one building?
[Yoon Aram, Designer] In Jeju, it’s challenging to find manpower outside the city, so we focused on how to efficiently manage staff for commercial spaces like the café and stay. We designed the stay space separately and also included the host’s residential area in the plan. We provided training and menu development support for the café.
We aligned the branding with the host’s mother-child relationship, aiming to showcase their strengths through the café. It’s the designer’s role to help them adapt and find direction. Additionally, since the café, stay, and residential areas are all in one building, we focused on ensuring that user pathways and sightlines were thoughtfully managed to maintain privacy and connection.
Q. The ‘Daily rental house’ located in Cheongsuri, Jeju-si operates the first floor as a café and the second floor as a stay. Is there anything you considered when designing the different spaces as one building?
[Yoon Aram, Designer] In Jeju, it’s challenging to find manpower outside the city, so we focused on how to efficiently manage staff for commercial spaces like the café and stay. We designed the stay space separately and also included the host’s residential area in the plan. We provided training and menu development support for the café.
We aligned the branding with the host’s mother-child relationship, aiming to showcase their strengths through the café. It’s the designer’s role to help them adapt and find direction. Additionally, since the café, stay, and residential areas are all in one building, we focused on ensuring that user pathways and sightlines were thoughtfully managed to maintain privacy and connection.
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Q. The name 'Daily rental house' refers to a specific architectural style. What are the architectural and spatial features of this stay?
[Yoon Aram, Designer] The 'Daily rental house' needed to accommodate many functions within a limited area. Although we could have designed multiple horizontal spaces, considering operational efficiency, we opted for a vertical expansion reminiscent of apartment-style collective housing. We created two main building sections with a core space in between to offer different views. The building's facade features layered transparent glass windows, which not only block outside views but also reflect Jeju's natural scenery in interesting ways.
The host’s idea of a Jeju stone house was realized with basalt stone walls in the interior of the stay and café. Interestingly, stones found during the construction of the sewage system were repurposed, matching the texture we initially planned. This connection to the land’s history creates a sense of continuity.
Q. The name 'Daily rental house' refers to a specific architectural style. What are the architectural and spatial features of this stay?
[Yoon Aram, Designer] The 'Daily rental house' needed to accommodate many functions within a limited area. Although we could have designed multiple horizontal spaces, considering operational efficiency, we opted for a vertical expansion reminiscent of apartment-style collective housing. We created two main building sections with a core space in between to offer different views. The building's facade features layered transparent glass windows, which not only block outside views but also reflect Jeju's natural scenery in interesting ways.
The host’s idea of a Jeju stone house was realized with basalt stone walls in the interior of the stay and café. Interestingly, stones found during the construction of the sewage system were repurposed, matching the texture we initially planned. This connection to the land’s history creates a sense of continuity.
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Q. The curved architecture of ‘Moheomdam’ is quite attractive. It seems like you’ve put a lot of thought into the experiential elements related to the brand story of ‘adventure/play’. Could you tell us more about this?
[Yoon Aram, Designer] We strive to break away from our flat, routine lives by incorporating various elevations and curved forms to create new experiences. The site where ‘Moheomdam’ is located features protruding rock formations and vertical height differences. By restoring these natural features, we aimed to create a landscape that departs from the ordinary. Visitors can return to a childlike sense of wonder, freely exploring and experimenting within the space. These experiential elements will continue to evolve, and ‘Moheomdam’ is excited to explore new adventures through the use of its space.
Q. The curved architecture of ‘Moheomdam’ is quite attractive. It seems like you’ve put a lot of thought into the experiential elements related to the brand story of ‘adventure/play’. Could you tell us more about this?
[Yoon Aram, Designer] We strive to break away from our flat, routine lives by incorporating various elevations and curved forms to create new experiences. The site where ‘Moheomdam’ is located features protruding rock formations and vertical height differences. By restoring these natural features, we aimed to create a landscape that departs from the ordinary. Visitors can return to a childlike sense of wonder, freely exploring and experimenting within the space. These experiential elements will continue to evolve, and ‘Moheomdam’ is excited to explore new adventures through the use of its space.
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Q. The shallow hill (mounding) that cuts across the building in ‘Moheomdam’ catches the eye. What does it signify?
[Kim Young-feel, Director] It represents Jeju’s Oreum or the natural curves of the land. It also symbolizes the courage to climb and the start of an adventure. The hill creates a boundary that encourages respect for each other’s space. Once a clear territory is established, people will turn their backs on the hill and gather while facing the same point. I believe the hill will become more natural over time. I expect it to blend more seamlessly with the building after exposure to rain and passing through winter.
Q. The shallow hill (mounding) that cuts across the building in ‘Moheomdam’ catches the eye. What does it signify?
[Kim Young-feel, Director] It represents Jeju’s Oreum or the natural curves of the land. It also symbolizes the courage to climb and the start of an adventure. The hill creates a boundary that encourages respect for each other’s space. Once a clear territory is established, people will turn their backs on the hill and gather while facing the same point. I believe the hill will become more natural over time. I expect it to blend more seamlessly with the building after exposure to rain and passing through winter.
Continuing the story
When looking at Studio 2LOOK's projects, there is no commonality among them. The reason is clear: each project tells a different story shaped by the land and people. What unique forms might the future envisioned by those who focus on their clients more than anyone else take?
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Q. Since its opening in 2010, there have been many changes in architectural and spatial trends over the past 15 years. How is Studio 2LOOK responding to these changes?
[Kim Young-feel, Director] Understanding people is important in any project, but reading the trends of the times is also crucial. It's about navigating the process of understanding the era in which the person lives. We naturally embrace change, continuously reflecting on what we excel at and what we need to improve each year. However, to maintain our unique identity, we consistently document and review our own evolution.
Q. Since its opening in 2010, there have been many changes in architectural and spatial trends over the past 15 years. How is Studio 2LOOK responding to these changes?
[Kim Young-feel, Director] Understanding people is important in any project, but reading the trends of the times is also crucial. It's about navigating the process of understanding the era in which the person lives. We naturally embrace change, continuously reflecting on what we excel at and what we need to improve each year. However, to maintain our unique identity, we consistently document and review our own evolution.
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Q. What kind of space would you like those who experience Studio 2LOOK's projects to remember?
[Kim Jin-young, Designer] I would be happiest if people simply said, “I went there, and it was really nice.” It would be even more appreciated if they could feel the space as intended by the designer.
[Kim Young-feel, Director] Our design is a reflection of the client’s story and their future vision of life. For our stays, we hope many people experience the client's story. Through this, we dream that the people living in and staying in that space will shine even more.
[Yoon Aram, Designer] I hope people recognize that from the beginning of the design process, there were individuals who understood the person, shared their perspective on life, and created the space together.
Q. What kind of space would you like those who experience Studio 2LOOK's projects to remember?
[Kim Jin-young, Designer] I would be happiest if people simply said, “I went there, and it was really nice.” It would be even more appreciated if they could feel the space as intended by the designer.
[Kim Young-feel, Director] Our design is a reflection of the client’s story and their future vision of life. For our stays, we hope many people experience the client's story. Through this, we dream that the people living in and staying in that space will shine even more.
[Yoon Aram, Designer] I hope people recognize that from the beginning of the design process, there were individuals who understood the person, shared their perspective on life, and created the space together.
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Q. Finally, could you share a few words about the direction Studio 2LOOK aims to take in the future?
[Kim Young-feel, Director] Our slogan is '2LOOK supports your thoughts.' There are many ways to offer support—through design, branding, or construction. However, while we are doing all these things, we find ourselves receiving a lot of support from others. We believe that both our clients and the visitors to our stays are supporting us. We hope to continue supporting the stories of people’s lives as we do now. Lastly, we want to express our gratitude for the support we receive in return.
Q. Finally, could you share a few words about the direction Studio 2LOOK aims to take in the future?
[Kim Young-feel, Director] Our slogan is '2LOOK supports your thoughts.' There are many ways to offer support—through design, branding, or construction. However, while we are doing all these things, we find ourselves receiving a lot of support from others. We believe that both our clients and the visitors to our stays are supporting us. We hope to continue supporting the stories of people’s lives as we do now. Lastly, we want to express our gratitude for the support we receive in return.
Epilogue
Upon entering a space designed by Studio 2LOOK, you can find their intentions reflected in every element—from the architecture and finishes to the detailed accessories. As you ponder and experience their intentions, you'll find that a full day has passed before you know it. The spaces they create are such that they cherish nature, imbue their accumulated stories, and convey them to us. They care for those who stay, encouraging them to embark on adventures. And we, in turn, can overlay our own memories and experiences onto these spaces.
The delicate sensibility of Studio 2LOOK is warmly carried through in the experience of their spaces. Their approach is not static but flows clearly and continuously, and they wholeheartedly support those who wish to view the world from new perspectives and embrace the future with vigor.
The delicate sensibility of Studio 2LOOK is warmly carried through in the experience of their spaces. Their approach is not static but flows clearly and continuously, and they wholeheartedly support those who wish to view the world from new perspectives and embrace the future with vigor.
