Lunawood in Architecture – Sam Young Choi

Mr. Sam Young Choi

In recent years Lunawood has made its market entry in South Korea. As in many other countries with demanding climate conditions, Lunawood’s Thermowood products have found their way onto the drawing boards of architects and designers.

One fan of Lunawood products is South Korean architect Sam Young Choi, who has been combining wood with other materials in a sustainable way. Sam was on his way with his art studies until he heard an inspiring story that made him change track.

Sam’s decision to quit his art studies and shift to architecture was made after he got to know the story of Kim Joong Up. Kim was a student of the world-renowned 20th century architect Le Corbusier. “I changed my studies at university to architectural engineering. After graduation, I worked under the culture and influence of Kim Swoo Geun, the mastermind behind the Olympic Main Stadium and other modern buildings in South Korea,” says Sam, explaining the steps he took to enter the world of architecture.

Sources of inspiration

Most of Sam’s inspiration comes from his daily activities. “The knowledge that I lack from travel I supplement with reading. As an architect, I habitually contemplate architecture, whether I’m watching a film or reading a book. Also, in order to recall all of my passing thoughts, I have made it a habit to take notes.” Sam is a compulsive note-taker. He carries an unlined notepad with him wherever he goes.

Building trends and practices in other countries are very much in Sam’s loop. In particular, the traditional ways of building with wood, such as the “hanok” houses that use beams and posts in the framework, are favourites of Sam’s. Still, he believes that every design is created for its purpose and he doesn’t follow any strict guidelines in his projects. “There is no single golden rule to good structural design. When I look at quality building design, it doesn’t give off,” Sam explains.

“Because timber is scarce in South Korea, I rely on imported timber and materials, which requires me to continually learn about new building design. However, I have taken the traditional hanok building design and translated it into modern construction to create a fusion of modern and traditional architecture,” says Sam, explaining his use of wood. This is also why Sam ended up using Lunawood’s panels in his designs.

source: http://www.lunawood.com/articles/lunawood-in-architecture-sam-young-choi/

Future with Lunawood

Sam has used Lunawood’s Thermowood products in several designs. He speaks highly of its structural integrity and quality, which boasts resistance to deformation and mould. “The colour, texture and scent, along with the ability to withstand changes in humidity, make these products an excellent choice as both indoor and outdoor finishing materials,” says Sam.

The South Korean wooden homes market is smaller than in other countries, but it’s currently flourishing. “There are few alternatives for external finishes. Lunawood is not yet very well known in South Korea. However, if Lunawood is showcased and shown to be an exemplary material, its future in South Korea will be bright,” Sam predicts.

According to Sam, Finnish redwood trees are well known in South Korea. In his opinion, the introduction of products from different tree species would add depth and insight, particularly for South Koreans, who love wooden building materials and the beautiful northern European country of Finland.

More information about Sam’s work can be found at: www.kawadesign.net (contents are mostly in Korean).

Writer: Antti Ratia