ARTE tea house is an artistic rest space in the central community area of a residential complex. Surrounded by water features and Joseon Juniperus chinensis specimen trees in an artist’s garden, it offers an immersive, meditative experience. The interplay of vertical and horizontal design elements creates a modern aesthetic that also conveys a sense of stability.

By opening up and incorporating both lighting and water features, ARTE stands as a landmark in the community. It’s more than a simple accommodation; It provides a multi-sensory and emotional experience, allowing visitors to unwind while being immersed in a landscape of art. The seamless integration of architecture and nature gives this space a transformative quality beyond that of a mere tea house, and it becomes an essential part of the community.

The tea house, as a key rest facility, is notable for its sculptural elements inspired by the fluid motion of water. Its side rooflines reinterpret the elegant curves of traditional Korean Hanok eaves, exuding a sense of dignity and sophistication.

To optimise the use of limited landscaping space, the DA room (designed for basement ventilation) is seamlessly integrated into the first floor, while the second floor serves as a dedicated rest space. In addition to its striking design, ARTE fullfills its functional purpose. Equipped with enclosed spaces and advanced air conditioner, it remains comfortable throughout Korea’s four seasons.

Unlike typical tea houses in residential complexes that serve solely as rest areas, ARTE redefines the concept of a communal space, offering an elegant and luxurious space that enhances the environment both aesthetically and functionally. The high ceiling gives residents an air of exclusivity, evoking the grandeur of a hotel lobby and offering residents a refined, welcoming atmosphere. High-end furniture, a built-in sound system, and curated art installations contribute to a sophisticated and emotionally engaging environment.

Landscape lighting is strategically utilised, turning the tea house into an artistic focal point that enhances its aesthetic value. Nestled alongside nearby water features and harmonising with the artist’s garden, ARTE transcends the role of a simple rest facility, becoming a multifunctional cultural space. This thoughtfully designed environment maximises user satisfaction while reinventing the role of a tea house within a residential setting. As a result, ARTE adds significant value to the complex, creating a shared space for art, relaxation, and socialisation.

Modern people spend more time outside than staying at home for financial activities. There is not much time to spend with their families. So it would be very valuable if there was something they could enjoy outside. It is an external space, but it is a comfortable and appreciable artwork called ‘tea house’. The tea house that will be created in the landscape field in the future has a wide spectrum that goes beyond the value of rest area.

The ARTE tea house is part of a broader redevelopment project in what used to be an aging, outdated area. The design embraces modernity, simplicity, and elegance, shedding the old image and making way for a refreshed and refined aesthetic. With simple lines and sophisticated detailing, the structure not only blends seamlessly into its surroundings but also stands out as a defining feature of the residential landscape.

The tea house is a two-story structure, with functional elements on the first floor and a dedicated rest area on the second. This tiered design enhances spatial depth and allows visitors to fully appreciate the surrounding artist’s garden. The harmonious fusion of modern architecture and nature makes ARTE an aesthetically captivating and culturally significant space. It provides a refined resting place for residents while serving as an architectural landmark that elevates the community’s overall visual identity.

Category:EnvironmentsAward Year:2025Designers:Phillip Yun Gil Choi, Soo Hyun Yum, Woo Sik Kim, Dae Ok Sung, Hyundai E&C, Hyundai Engineering and Construction Co., Ltd., Seoul, South Korea and Playjam, Seoul, Republic of KoreaManufacturer:Hyundai Engineering and Construction Co., Ltd., Seoul, South Korea