LESS architects weaves new clubhouse into korea's hilly nature

Seongmunan cc. Clubhouse by less architects

Emerging from the scenic Oak Vallery in Wonju, South Korea, the Seongmunan cc. Clubhouse exemplifies the ways in which architecture embraces and yields to nature. Completed by local practice LESS Architects, the project takes shape as an added layer of topography within the existing hilly landscape. Emphasizing the integration are ‘in-between’ spaces that link the existing topography to the inner communal area hosting a spacious restaurant café, allowing all visitors to enjoy and look out at the scenic landforms rolling into the distance.

all images courtesy LESS Architects

‘Our solution was to yield to nature. We achieved this by situating the architecture behind the existing hill to ensure that the focal point remained with the natural surroundings, with the Clubhouse sitting behind. Moreover, the Clubhouse’s design was inspired by an effort to restore the landscape and invoke memories of the storied history of the surrounding area and to ensure that the existing topography was preserved,‘ shares the practice.

Seongmunan cc. Clubhouse sits in the scenic Oak Valley of Wonju

Yielding to the topography, preserving the scenery

Location-wise, LESS Architects selected the hill between the canyon, allowing the Clubhouse to crown the top of the land without harming or disturbing the surrounding scenery that stretches majestically from Wonju’s river flowing quietly nearby, adding an added layer of charm to the project.

‘In taking this approach to focus on the natural scenery and typography, visitors can walk from the river and canyon and reach the Clubhouse’s top level. The rooftop level of the Clubhouse was designed as a cultural community space for visitors – pedestrians and golfers and includes a café, gallery, concert hall, and observatory. It also connects to the existing trekking/walking course and Museum SAN,’ continues the team.

an architecture that fully yields to nature

Beyond integration and landscape preservation, LESS also focused on sustainability practices for the Seongmunuan cc. Clubhouse. This approach included adding a green roof, water features, a courtyard and a front yard, a canopy design, a wind corridor, and various in-between spaces. Together, these features offer controlled indoor and outdoor climate conditions, all while reducing the need for high energy consumption when using the complex’s facilities.

creating in-between paths connected via sculptural staircases