The Yellow Diamond building’s triangular site is located in one of the most dynamic, creative districts in Seoul. Surrounded by several universities, the area has an energy and sense that anything is possible. I felt that uninhibited artistic expression was appropriate for the site. I also wanted to celebrate and inspire the tenants that may occupy this building in the future.

It is envisioned as a center where emerging artists can promote their work. A combination of bright color and rhythm will give the building the impact to support its proposed use. The exterior is angled planes of gold-yellow frit-pattern glass representing a unique gem.



As the visitors approach from either direction, they encounter changing sparkle and enjoy glimpses into the retail spaces. The public passage through the building draws pedestrians inside, heightening the intrigue to explore the creative spaces within.



Architects: Jun Mitsui & Associates Architects + Unsangdong Architects
Location: Seoul, Republic of Korea
Design Team: Jun Mitsui, Nicolai Kruger, Ray Wu, Minsu Kim, Yoshie Shinbo, Jang Yoon Gyoo, Shin Chang Hoon, Lee Soon Phyo, Moon Sang Ho, Kim Se Jin, Kim Bong Kyun, Kang Seung Hyun
Project area: 4,316 sqm
Project year: 2007 – 2010
Photographs: E-Jae-seong,  Shinkenchiku


Jun Mitsui & Associates Architects

Unsangdong Architects

In composition of space, relationship among programs and circulation are played important role. Ground level, which is divided by kitchen/Dining and living area and upper level, which is divided by children rooms and master zone are crossing at division area. By this manner, space is gradually ascending from entry to master zone.

Next thing to consider is to make dynamic space by changing size of space and by leading sight. High ceiling at the entrance corridor is more emphasized by sunlight through skylight and a wall, which is faced at the end of corridor, inducts eye to dining area. At this point, the ceiling height is suddenly changed by overhead ramp.



High ceiling living area appears through low-rise 3step staircase, which is crossing outside water pond and inside plant area. From living area, space bifurcates to library at lower level and to upper level. Master zone, where is a climax in space scenario, is connected by a corridor and a ramp from children’s room at upper level. Master bedroom is entered through open bathroom and powder room and reconnected to entrance corridor.



Shape of the building is planned to follow the space scenario and roof, which is covered by black zinc is wrapping around upper level mass and form a homogeneous and muscular shape. Contrarily, lower level masses, which are covered by basalt, stand rigidly. Water pond and inner plant space are inserted at the crossing point of lower level mass and upper level mass.

Architect: Hohyun Park + Hyunjoo Kim
Location: Gwangju Si, Gyeonggi-Do, South Korea
Use: Residential
Structure: Reinforced Concrete
Exterior Finishes: Black Zinc, Basalt, Red Cedar, Slate
Interior Finishes: Paint, Cedar, Pine, Wenge Flooring, Wenge& Zebrano staircase, Slate
Design year: 2007-2008
Construction year: 2008-2009
Site Area: 805 sqm
Gross Floor Area: 287,5 sqm
Building Area: 189,64 sqm
Landscaping Area: 615,36 sqm
Gross Floor Ratio: 26.89%
Building Coverage Ratio: 23.56%
Photographs: Jungmin Seok

Hohyun Park, Hyunjoo Kim

The natural beauty of Jeju Island serves as a backdrop for the artistic cultural experience of this museum. Situated within the Halla Mountains, the design accentuates the surrounding natural environment through material selection and carefully designed views to the exterior.

The museum plan is designed as a circulation loop, creating exterior and interior exhibition space. The program of the museum is planned for research, conservation, exhibition, education, and exhibition.

The geometry is based off of the simplistic module of the cube, replicating this form within and out to frame both art and the natural beauty surrounding the museum. The simple, rational form is sensitive to both light and environment surrounding it.

The materials reflect the local environment, Jeju stone blend in with the exposed concrete, blurring the boundary between manmade and natural. A pool at the entrance of the building reflects day light into the building.

The colonnade on the north and west façade frames the sky and transitions between interior and exterior. This entry plaza opens to a cultural plaza which serves as a year round outdoor exhibition and performance space. Inspired by the volcanic Halla mountains, the rear walkway of the museum culminates in a circular amphitheater serving as a community performance space.

© Gansam Partners Architects & Associates
Architect: Gansam Architects & Associates
Location: Jeju-Do, Jeju-Si, Yon-Dong 680-7, South Korea
Project Architect: Taijip Kim
Design team: Kiyoung Han, Cheonhang Kim, Mi jung Kim, Chang Bae Yoon, Jeong Hoon Sir, Sung Beom Park, Sun A Park, Sang Kyu Jeon, Sun Min Lee, Jin A Yoo, Su Jeong Ko
Client: Jeju Province
Site Area: 39,759 sqm
Gross Floor Area: 7,082 sqm
Building Area: 4,326 sqm
Project Year: 2009
Photographs: Gansam Partners Architects & Associates

Gansam Architects & Associates